With over 25 years of service to nonprofits nationally, Company and Carlton understands all the competing theories regarding fundraising feasibility studies. The best advice: some nonprofits gain significantly from a well-designed staff and Board or study, particularly when first needs appear obscure need more definite data to move forward with confidence. However a shrewd measure is never represented by a poorly designed study. (If, actually, your leaders has “set the table” with sound preparatory work, you may be able to transition directly into a major solicitation with no Study– but be careful not to overestimate improvement to date!)
No matter your circumstances, the primary goal always should include getting the homework right for greatest success. A in-depth feasibility study may be your best measure (contrary to gimmicks that promise to shortcut studies with clever messaging and staff coaching alone). Done correctly, capital campaign feasibility studies bring contribution and trust and increased clarity – all worth the investment that is early. Therefore, a successful study should be regarded as a primary tool in almost any campaign that was important that was successful. That said, you may want to blow off any “pro” who says a study should ALWAYS or NEVER be needed!
Capital campaign feasibility studies signify months of work and preparatory research. Ask for a recent sample copy, when appraising prospective businesses that conduct fundraising feasibility studies. As with absolutely any process predicated on data, look formatting as well as past colours. Look carefully at what forms the foundation for recommendations.
Just how many assistants or leaders had input? Were they asked or contacted? Were wedded pairs counted as two different interviews or one if interviewed as a couple? Were interviews rushed in short sessions that operate only as guided “fill out a form” meetings?
The Carlton fundraising feasibility process comprises the widest possible input from stakeholders, based on respectful, private face to face interviews (not mass emails or fill in bubble surveys). This approach invests considerable time to learn about donors and a nonprofit organization’s unique history, including subtle but crucial details easily overlooked or disregarded.
Capital campaign feasibility studies should not be regarded as compulsory in every capital campaign, nor should they be considered pricey scams. They are well worth the investment when they create clear recommendations desired, supported by a process that is sure along with hard data.
Please contact Company and Carlton to receive a copy of a recent Carlton fundraising feasibility study. Remember that, above all, Company campaign feasibility study and a Carlton produces what your decision makers need to move forward and fulfill with your aim with total confidence.
See Carlton and Company at fundraising-campaigns.org.
For more information about how to start a capital campaign check out this useful site