Monthly check-in 3: Fundraising strategy & donor management

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Who is this for?

This content is designed for participants in Anti Entropy's SparkWell fiscal sponsorship program. While some context will be specific to SparkWell and may need more context, we've made these resources public because they may, nevertheless, be useful to others who may be founding or building an organization.

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Fundraising strategy & donor management

Why is this important?

When setting up a nonprofit, it’s essential to think about fundraising strategy and donor management because funding is what enables the organization to carry out its mission, while strong donor relationships ensure long-term sustainability. A clear fundraising strategy identifies the most effective sources and methods for raising money, aligns with the nonprofit’s goals and capacity, and reduces financial uncertainty. Donor management helps build trust, retain supporters, and grow contributions over time by ensuring donors feel valued, informed, and connected to the impact of their giving. Together, they create a stable financial foundation for the organization’s work.

Suggested reading

Milestones

Aim to complete these before your next monthly check-in:

βœ”οΈ Suitable funding sources and/or donors determined

(Optional) Further outcomes

Consider completing these throughout the program:

βœ”οΈ Fundraising best practices and tactics discussed
βœ”οΈ Stakeholder mapping and engagement approaches discussed
βœ”οΈ Partnership strategies developed
βœ”οΈ Case for support written
βœ”οΈ Grant strategy developed
βœ”οΈ Grant(s) applied for as needed
βœ”οΈ Due diligence discussed

Next up: Financial management & budgeting

When setting up a nonprofit, careful financial management and budgeting are crucial to ensure resources are used efficiently, obligations are met, and the organization remains financially sustainable.

See the Financial management & budgeting worksheet for more information.