I was inspired by this article about how three Colorado theaters responded when faced with a possibility of losing funding from the National Endowment for the Arts.
With funding in question across our sector, waiting to see how things shake out before engaging your donors is a mistake. Here’s your checklist to strengthen fundraising communications and engage your donors now.
Communicate openly about what has changed
If your funding stream has changed significantly because of the Trump administration’s actions, be explicit about who bears the responsibility and how it impacts your community. Donors may not clearly understand the impact of reduced funds, so be clear and help them reconnect to their passion for your mission.
Remind donors of your shared values.
Be explicit about your values and what they call you to do during these times. Map your values back to the impact you and your donors both want to achieve.
Ask directly for donations to reach a specific goal.
Let your donors know exactly how much you have lost, or expect to lose, and be clear about what their gifts will make possible. Donors give to create tangible, lasting impact in the moment.
Communicate the urgency.
Explain the time-sensitive nature of your need and give your donors a clear deadline to act. Help them avoid the “let’s wait and see” mindset.
Speak to widely held American beliefs.
Words like freedom, community, belonging, and fairness resonate across the political spectrum. Incorporate them into your messaging and connect them directly back to your shared values.
Communicate your need for long-term support.
Fundraising is a marathon made up of sprints. Make sure your donors know what will be needed from them for the continuation, sustainability and growth of your mission. When you share the same vision, donors will commit to helping you achieve it.
“Amplify the good” isn’t just our tagline. We want to help you achieve your mission, any way that we can.
Need help raising more money, attracting more people to your organization, or rallying your community? We’re here to help. Let’s talk.