With over 25 years of service to nonprofits nationwide, Company and Carlton understands all the contending theories regarding fundraising feasibility studies. The very best advice: some nonprofits benefit significantly from a well-designed study, particularly when first demands appear obscure or staff and Board need more concrete data to move forward with confidence. However a wise step is never represented by a poorly designed study. (If, actually, your leaders has “set the table” with sound preparatory work, you might be able to transition directly into a major solicitation without a Study– but be careful not to overestimate advancement to date!)
No matter your circumstances, the primary goal always should include getting the assignments right for greatest success. A in-depth feasibility study could be your greatest step (contrary to gimmicks that claim to shortcut studies with apt messaging and staff training alone). Done correctly, capital campaign feasibility studies bring engagement and trust and increased clarity – all worth the investment that is early. Therefore, a successful study should be considered as a primary tool in any effort that was leading that was successful. That said, you may want to ignore any “pro” who says a study should ALWAYS or NEVER be needed!
What else should you do as part of your due diligence in capital effort groundwork?
Capital effort feasibility studies signify months of preparatory research and work. Request a recent sample copy, when evaluating potential companies that run fundraising feasibility studies. As with any process predicated on data, look formatting and past colors. Instead look attentively at what forms the basis for recommendations.
Exactly how many assistants or leaders had input? How were they contacted or asked? Were married pairs counted as two separate interviews or one if interviewed as a couple? Were interviews dashed in short sessions that function just as guided “fill out a form” assemblies?
The Carlton fundraising feasibility process contains the widest possible input from stakeholders, based on respectful, private face to face interviews (not mass emails or fill in bubble surveys). This strategy invests considerable time to learn about donors and a nonprofit organization’s unique history, including subtle but critical details readily overlooked or ignored.
The bottom line: Capital effort feasibility studies should not be regarded as mandatory in every capital effort, nor should they be considered pricey scams. They can be well worth the investment when they create clear recommendations needed, supported by hard data and also a sure process.
Please contact Company and Carlton to receive a copy of a recent Carlton fundraising feasibility study. Remember that, above all, Company effort feasibility study and a Carlton provides what your decision makers have to move forward and fulfill with your target with total confidence.
See Carlton and Company at fundraising-campaigns.org.
For details about capital campaign university see our webpage