So, you want to start a charity?

Starting Strong: Fundraising Advice for Launching a Charity

Setting up a charity is an inspiring endeavour, driven by a commitment to create meaningful change. However, the journey to fundraising success requires careful planning, authentic storytelling, and a focus on building genuine connections. Here's a guide to set you up for sustainable and impactful fundraising, drawing from the 7 Pillars of Fundraising Income framework and practical advice on fostering community and inclusivity.

Step 1: Build Your Foundation

Before diving into fundraising activities, ensure your organisation is well-prepared. This involves:

1. Define Your Projects: Clearly articulate what you're fundraising for. Whether it's a specific programme, a resource need, or community outreach, ensure every project is tied to your organisation's mission.

2. Establish a Theory of Change: This is your impact blueprint. It defines the problem, your proposed solution, and how success will be measured.

3. Create Key Assets:

   • Cause Stories: Showcase real-life examples that illustrate the problem and how your charity addresses it. Authentic storytelling connects emotionally with donors.
   • Organisational Strategy: Develop a long-term strategy that outlines goals, resources, and priorities.
   • Impact Measurement Tools: Build systems to track and report outcomes, demonstrating transparency and accountability.

Step 2: Engage Your Community

Community fundraising is a cornerstone of long-term success. Focus on inclusivity and making it easy for individuals to contribute:

1. Leverage Social Media and Newsletters:

   • Regularly share updates, stories, and progress.
   • Encourage two-way communication, inviting your supporters to share their thoughts and experiences.

2. Encourage Grassroots Fundraising:

   • Host campaigns that empower individuals to raise funds on your behalf, such as walkathons, bake sales, or digital fundraisers.
   • Provide a toolkit with resources like social media templates, talking points, and fundraising guides.

3. Create Annual Campaigns:

   • Plan at least one community-wide campaign annually to rally collective support.
   • Tailor your messaging to highlight inclusivity and how every contribution, no matter the size, matters.

Step 3: Diversify Fundraising Streams

Sustainable income often comes from multiple sources. Explore these key pillars:

1. Grants:

   • Aim to submit 10-15 grant applications annually with a well-prepared project brief. A success rate of 30-50% is a reasonable target.
   • Build relationships with grant-makers by aligning your goals with their priorities.

2. Partnerships:

   • Collaborate with businesses or community organisations for sponsorships or joint events.
   • Develop a partnership policy that outlines expectations, benefits, and shared values.

3. Appeals and Regular Giving:

   • Send personalised appeals twice annually to your database.
   • Introduce regular giving options to foster ongoing support.

4. Major Donors and Trusts:

   • Identify and cultivate relationships with potential major donors. Schedule biannual reviews of your donor database to identify prospects.
   • Prepare tailored "asks" that show alignment between the donor's values and your charity's mission.

Step 4: Evaluate and Adapt

Continual improvement is essential. After every campaign or initiative:

• Review Results: Use reporting templates to assess what worked and where adjustments are needed.
• Gather Feedback: Engage with donors and stakeholders to understand their experiences and perceptions.
• Celebrate Successes: Share milestones and impact stories with your community, thanking them for their contributions.

The Heart of Fundraising: Connection and Authenticity

At its core, fundraising is about relationships. Prioritise building connections that go beyond transactions:

• Be Transparent: Show how funds are used and the impact achieved.
• Be Inclusive: Ensure everyone feels welcomed and valued, from small donors to large sponsors.
• Be Authentic: Stay true to your mission and voice, emphasising the real difference supporters are helping to make.

By thoughtfully planning, fostering community, and embracing authenticity, your charity can build a strong foundation for lasting impact. Each step, from engaging individuals to crafting professional grant proposals, contributes to a shared vision of change that inspires action.