With over 25 years of service to nonprofits nationally, Carlton and Company understands all the contending theories regarding fundraising feasibility studies. The very best advice: some nonprofits gain significantly from a well-designed staff and Board or study, particularly when initial demands seem obscure need more definite data to move forward with confidence. However a poorly designed study never represents a wise step. (If, in reality, your leadership 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 advancement to date!)
Whatever your circumstances, the primary goal always should contain getting the homework right for greatest success. A in-depth feasibility study could be your best step (contrary to gimmicks that promise to shortcut studies with intelligent messaging and staff coaching alone). Done properly, capital campaign feasibility studies bring trust and increased clarity and engagement – all worth the early investment. Thus, a successful study ought to be considered as a primary tool in almost any major effort that was successful. Having said that, you may choose to ignore any “expert” who says a study should ALWAYS or NEVER be required!
Capital effort feasibility studies signify months of preparatory research and work. Ask for a recent sample copy when appraising potential businesses that run fundraising feasibility studies. As with absolutely any process based on data, look past colours as well as formatting. Instead look attentively at what forms the foundation for recommendations.
Leaders or exactly how many supporters had input signal? Were they contacted or asked? If interviewed as a couple, were wedded pairs counted as two individual interviews or one? (Carlton and Company does not condone “double counting” to inflate numbers.) Were interviews dashed in short sessions that work just as guided “fill out a form” assemblies?
The Carlton fundraising feasibility process comprises the broadest possible input from stakeholders, based on respectful, private face-to-face interviews (not mass emails or fill in bubble surveys). This strategy invests substantial time to learn about a nonprofit organization’s unique history and donors, including subtle but crucial details disregarded or easily overlooked.
The bottom line: Capital effort feasibility studies shouldn’t be considered mandatory in every capital effort, nor should they be considered pricey scams. They may be well worth the investment when they produce clear recommendations needed, supported by hard data and a process that is trustworthy.
Remember that, above all, a Carlton and Company effort feasibility study provides what your decision makers need to move forward and fulfill your aim with full confidence.
See Carlton and Company at fundraising-campaigns.org.
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