Episode 15 – The Quarterly Plan: How to Build a 90-Day Fundraising Strategy That Actually Works
Mastering the 90-Day Fundraising Plan: A Proactive Approach to Success
Welcome to a deep dive into developing a structured and efficient fundraising strategy designed to alleviate stress and enhance productivity for nonprofits and similar organizations. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll unravel the secrets to building a 90-day fundraising plan that not only works but excels. Let's jump right in!
Introduction to the 90-Day Plan
Fundraising doesn’t have to be a chaotic race against time. In fact, with a well-thought-out quarterly plan, you can transition from a reactive to a proactive stance. No more scrambling to meet deadlines or rushing to create last-minute appeals. Instead, you’ll learn how to strategically plan, lead effectively, and achieve clarity in your fundraising efforts.
The Power of Quarterly Planning
Quarterly planning hits the sweet spot between ambition and feasibility. Unlike long, convoluted plans that often gather dust, or short-term ones that don’t allow adequate progression, a 90-day plan provides enough time to see tangible results. With clear checkpoints, you can adapt and pivot as needed, ensuring flexibility and success in your strategies.
The Four Pillars of a 90-Day Plan
Every successful 90-day fundraising plan rests on four essential pillars. Think of these as the legs of a table—each one crucial for stability and balance.
Stewardship: How will you thank and strengthen relationships with your current donors? These relationships are key to sustainability and significant future donations. Whether through personalized thank-yous, behind-the-scenes updates, or exclusive events, the focus should be on deepening existing connections.
Outreach: How will you attract new donors or reengage those who have lapsed? Consider participating in events, leveraging social media, or even requesting referrals from current donors. The goal is to forge new relationships that will ultimately lead to increased support.
Messaging: What core story or theme will you highlight this quarter? Craft a compelling narrative that resonates with your audience and aligns with your campaign goals. Whether it's a seasonal theme or a specific story arc, ensure it’s impactful and relatable.
Leadership: Which strategic relationships should you prioritize? Whether meeting with potential board members or key donors, focus on relationships that can significantly advance your mission.
Building Your 90-Day Plan in Practice
Let’s take the concept from theory to practice with a sample Q3 plan:
Stewardship: Commit to making ten personalized thank-you calls or send ten notes each month.
Outreach: Organize a special event or intimate gathering, and diligently follow up with attendees.
Messaging: Launch a campaign with consistent messaging, perhaps a summer theme like "Keeping Hope Alive," communicated through strategic emails and appeals.
Leadership: Aim for several meetings with significant donors or board prospects to discuss potential support or board engagement.
Simplicity is Key
Remember, simplicity doesn't mean the absence of depth. A simple plan can be powerful because it provides clarity. When everyone from your team to your board knows the focus, efforts become unified and straightforward, reducing stress and increasing effectiveness.
Steps to Implement Your Plan
Draft a Document: Start by sketching your plan on a whiteboard or document. Clearly outline the four pillars and define the associated goals and activities.
Be Honest About Capacity: Ensure your goals are realistic and focused on what can genuinely be achieved within the quarter.
Share Your Plan: Make your draft tangible by sharing it with a trusted colleague or member of your team for feedback.
Set Regular Check-Ins: Schedule monthly check-ins to assess progress. Adjust and refocus as necessary to stay aligned with your goals.
Conclusion
You don’t need a year-long strategic plan to move forward. A thoughtfully crafted 90-day plan provides the clarity and direction necessary to lead effectively, serve better, and ultimately raise more funds with less stress. Planning even a mere 90 days ahead creates much-needed space—for leadership, for service, and for growth in support and impact.
By implementing these strategies, you can transform your approach from a reactionary model to one that's proactive and controlled, propelling your organization forward with confidence.
If this approach piques your interest and you need guidance, consider allowing us to assist. Visit MRPDONORDEV.com to schedule a consultation. Remember, in fundraising, keeping donors at the center ensures success.
Thank you for joining us in crafting your organization’s future with intentional strategy and heartfelt stewardship. See you next time on our journey through donor-centric success!
