The Sustainable Fundraising Enterprise

Introducing the Council's Multimedia Playbook for Promoting More Reliable Returns

Topics: Philanthropy, Foundation Strategy, Strategy

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By accessing these materials, members will learn how to:

  • Lay the groundwork for future growth
  • Craft a retention plan for top revenue generators
  • Invest in smart staff growth

Watch the video View the multimedia presentation

Executive Summary

Market trends and emphasis on near-term revenue increase volatility

Hospital-based philanthropy is a volatile enterprise, and the past decade has witnessed considerable revenue fluctuation in programs of all sizes. Uncertainty about attainment in a given year precludes development’s closer integration into the hospital’s strategic plan and puts foundation staff at greater risk for cuts. Therefore, development leaders must reset their ambitions to aim for more consistent, predictable returns.

Although recent fluctuation can be partially attributed to macro-level economic trends, a closer examination uncovers development decisions that exacerbate philanthropy’s natural volatility. Overemphasis on campaigns and near-term revenue promotes neglect of programs essential to building pipeline. Additionally, frequent staff turnover damages essential relationships and leads to fallow solicitation periods.

Eight imperatives for promoting reliable returns

The Council proposes eight imperatives for creating a sustainable fundraising organization.

1. Stabilize deferred giving efforts
2. Bolster pipeline through acquisition and stewardship
3. Optimize transition from pipeline to portfolio
4. Create compelling career pathways
5. Offer meaningful incentives
6. Right-size individual goals
7. Compensate for past underinvestment
8. Develop a balanced staffing plan

Access the study and multimedia presentation

This study contains the executive summary of the Council's lessons for infusing fundraising revenues with increased reliability and predictability. The multimedia presentation offers targeted, in-depth teaching and additional resources for each of the lessons. Together, these materials provide information critical to building a sustainable fundraising organization.

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