How to Ask for Funding National Scenic Byways Conference May 21, 2007 Baltimore, Maryland Session Topics • The Fundraising Plan • The Major Donor • The Donor Package A Fundraising Plan is … • A document which addresses the essential components of any successful organization leadership and message. • The best way to ensure that an organizationidentifies its goals and has realistic revenue expectations. • The “road map” that keeps staff and leadershipon track to meet both the financial and program goals of the organization. Important Questions • How are you currently funded? • How much funding do you need? • How do you plan to go about getting the funding you need? • How will you use the funding? • How will you account for the funding? FIGURE: 2005 Contributions (pie chart) $260.28 billion by source of contribution INDIVIDUALS $199.07 (76.5%) FOUNDATIONS $30.00 (11.5%) BEQUESTS $17.44 (6.7%) CORPORATIONS $13.77 (5.3%) Source: Giving USA Foundation™ / Giving USA 2006 Elements of a Successful Solicitation • Research • Evaluation • Planning • Cultivation How Much to Ask For • Always suggest a specific amount • The amount should be proportionate to what others are being asked • It should be comfortable to the prospect Solicitation Tips • State your case • Make your request • BE QUIET! FIGURE: Engaging the Donor DONOR is in the middle around the donor are: INFORM RECOGNIZE THANK INVOLVE SOLICIT REPORT Case Statement • Who you are, what you do, and why it’s important • Mission Statement • List of Accomplishments PHOTO: AIA Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway document Other Materials to Include • Board Members • Donor Benefits • Future Projects PHOTO: three overlapping documents: Board of Directors, Member Benefits, Future Projects Other Materials to Include • Membership application and return envelope PHOTO: three overlapping membership documents LOGO: Corridor Solutions A resource for scenic byways. Wanda Maloney Frances Kidd (352) 333-3733