With over 25 years of service to nonprofits nationally, Carlton and Company understands all the competing theories regarding fundraising feasibility studies. The very best advice: some nonprofits benefit significantly from a well-designed study, especially when first demands appear vague or staff and Board need more real data to move forward with confidence. But a poorly designed study never represents a wise step. (If, in reality, your leadership has “set the table” with solid preparatory work, you may be able to transition directly into a leading solicitation with no Study– but take care not to overestimate progress to date!)
No matter your circumstances, the primary aim always should include getting the assignments right for greatest success. A in depth feasibility study could be your finest step (contrary to gimmicks that claim to shortcut studies with apt messaging and staff training alone). Done properly, capital campaign feasibility studies bring participation and trust and increased clarity – all worth the early investment. Therefore, a successful study should be considered as a primary tool in almost any successful campaign that was major. That said, you might want to blow off any “pro” who says a study should ALWAYS or NEVER be demanded!
Capital campaign feasibility studies represent months of preparatory research and work. Request a recent sample copy, when evaluating prospective businesses that conduct fundraising feasibility studies. As with any process predicated on data, look past colours and formatting. Look attentively at what forms the basis for recommendations.
Leaders or exactly how many supporters had input? Were they contacted or asked? Were married pairs counted as two separate interviews or one if interviewed as a couple? (Carlton and Company does not condone “double counting” to inflate numbers.) Were interviews hurried in brief sessions that operate just as directed “fill out a form” assemblies?
The Carlton fundraising feasibility process contains the widest possible input from stakeholders, based on respectful, private face-to-face interviews (not mass emails or fill in bubble surveys). This approach invests substantial time to learn about donors and a nonprofit organization’s unique history, including subtle but crucial details discounted or readily overlooked.
Capital campaign feasibility studies shouldn’t be regarded as required in every capital campaign, nor should they be considered high-priced scams. They may be well worth the investment when they create clear recommendations desired, supported by hard data and also a process that is trusted.
Please contact Carlton and Company to receive a copy of a recent Carlton fundraising feasibility study. Remember that, most importantly, Company campaign feasibility study and a Carlton produces what your decision makers need to move forward and meet with your target with full trust.
See Carlton and Company at fundraising-campaigns.org.
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