With over 25 years of service to nonprofits nationwide, Carlton and Company understands all the contending theories regarding fundraising feasibility studies. The very best advice: some nonprofits gain greatly from a well-designed staff and Board or study, especially when first needs appear vague need more real data to move forward with confidence. But a poorly designed study never represents a wise measure. (If, in fact, your leadership has “set the table” with strong preparatory work, you may be able to transition directly into a major solicitation with no Study– but be careful not to overestimate progress to date!)
No matter your circumstances, the primary aim always should contain getting the assignments right for greatest success. A in depth feasibility study may be your greatest measure (contrary to gimmicks that promise to shortcut studies with adroit messaging and staff training alone). Done correctly, capital campaign feasibility studies bring involvement and trust and increased clarity – all worth the investment that is early. Thus, a successful study should be regarded as a primary tool in any successful major effort. Having said that, you may choose to ignore any “pro” who says a study should ALWAYS or NEVER be required!
Capital effort feasibility studies represent months of work and preparatory research. Request a recent sample copy when appraising prospective companies that conduct fundraising feasibility studies. As with absolutely any process predicated on data, look formatting as well as past colors. Instead look carefully at what forms the foundation for recommendations.
Leaders or just how many supporters had input? How were they asked or contacted? Were wedded pairs counted as two separate interviews or one if interviewed as a couple? (Carlton and Company doesn’t condone “double counting” to inflate numbers.) Were interviews hurried in short sessions that function just as directed “fill out a form” meetings?
The Carlton fundraising feasibility process comprises the widest possible input from stakeholders, based on respectful, private face-to-face interviews (not mass emails or fill in bubble surveys). This strategy invests substantial time to learn about donors and a nonprofit organization’s unique history, including subtle but crucial details disregarded or easily overlooked.
The bottom line: Capital effort feasibility studies should not be regarded as required in every capital effort, nor should they be considered pricey scams. They may be well worth the investment when they create clear recommendations needed, supported by a trustworthy process along with hard data.
Please contact Carlton and Company to receive a copy of a recent Carlton fundraising feasibility study. Remember that, most importantly, Company effort feasibility study and a Carlton provides what your decision makers have to move forward and meet with your target with full trust.
See Carlton and Company at fundraising-campaigns.org.
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