Are You Ready for the
Post-pandemic Fundraising World?
Ann C. Fitzgerald, President
Vaccinations are up. Masks are down. The world is reopening. People are ready to GO!
Can you same the same about your nonprofit? Are you ready to fast forward fundraising in the post-pandemic world?
What’s your message? During the pandemic, you might have had built-in immediacy for your messaging. But how are your programs important and urgent now, in the new environment? What initiatives will you (re)start or end moving forward?
Do you have a plan? If fundraising stagnated last year or if you were operating off Paycheck Protection money, it’s time to develop realistic budgets based on the trends you see. Or it might be time to build capacity to reflect anticipated giving optimism.
Are you ready to accelerate? Economic indicators point to robust growth in the near future. Do you have a big vision and clear objectives to match donors’ interests? What do you need to have in place to capitalize on this opportunity?
Is your technology keeping pace with donor expectations? Donors have become used to the satisfaction and efficiency of the “Amazon experience.” What systems should you have in place to provide an engaging digital experience?
Are you using this pandemic time well? The end of the pandemic will be like the end of Prohibition! It will unleash pent-up demand for gatherings, travel, and family visits. Meetings with fundraisers may not be first on a donor’s list. Be sure you are using this time well to connect via mail, email, and phone calls with as many donors and prospects as possible before they’re busy (finally) socializing.
The pandemic taught everyone that life can be short, things can change on a dime, and our time is precious. When donors emerge ready to make a lasting impact in this world, they will look to your bold vision and inspiring programs to make it happen.
It’s time to GO!
Ann C. Fitzgerald is Founder and President of AC Fitzgerald, using her decades of experience in fundraising, management, leadership, and sales to help nonprofits build their capacity and achieve success. She is a sought-after speaker, writer, and advisor.