With over 25 years of service to nonprofits nationwide, Carlton and Company knows all the competing Fundraising theories. The best advice is that some nonprofits benefit greatly from a well-designed study. Especially when initial needs appear vague, or the staff and Board need more concrete data to move forward with confidence. But a poorly designed study never represents a wise step. (If, in fact, your leadership has “set the table” with solid preparatory work, you may be able to transition directly into a major solicitation without a Study, but be careful not to overestimate progress to date!)

Whatever your circumstances, the primary goal always should include getting the homework right for ultimate success. An in-depth feasibility study may be your best step (contrary to gimmicks that claim to shortcut studies with clever messaging and staff coaching alone). Done properly, capital campaign feasibility studies bring increased clarity and trust and participation — all worth the early investment. Therefore, the initiation of an in depth study prioritizing feasibility must become a priority.

What else should you do as part of your due diligence in capital campaign preparation? Capital campaign feasibility studies represent months of preparatory research and work. When evaluating potential firms that conduct fundraising feasibility studies, ask for a recent sample copy. As with any process based on data, look past colors and formatting. Instead look carefully at what forms the basis for recommendations. How many supporters or leaders had input? If interviewed as a couple, were married pairs counted as two separate interviews or one? (Carlton and Company does not condone “double counting” to inflate numbers.)

The Carlton fundraising feasibility process includes the widest possible input from stakeholders, based on respectful, personal face-to-face interviews (not mass emails or fill in bubble surveys). This approach invests significant time to learn about a nonprofit organization’s unique history and donors, including subtle but vital details easily overlooked or ignored.

Employment of Capital Campaign Feasibility Studies are considered a priority. They are well worth the investment when they produce clear recommendations needed — supported by hard data and a trusted process.

In conclusion, please contact Carlton and Company to receive a copy of a recent Carlton fundraising feasibility study. Remember that a Carlton and Company campaign feasibility study delivers what your decision makers need to move forward and meet your goals with full confidence.

See Carlton and Company at fundraising-campaigns.org.

 

Nonprofit Feasibility Studies
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