In order to build a robust and diverse non-profit funding strategy, it’s important to spread your fundraising efforts across several areas or platforms.

Did you know that there are a number of ‘buckets’ that you can access within some companies, depending on what kind of support you are seeking for your non-profit?

If you are looking for corporate sponsorship funds, then this will come out of a company’s marketing budget. If you are offering staff engagement and volunteering opportunities that are aimed at connecting their company or employees to your community of followers, then they will be delving into their HR budget.

If it is appropriate for your non-profit to approach a company for corporate social responsibility (CSR) investment (this is where a company recognises that their activities have a wider impact on the society/environment in which they operate) these funds will be siphoned from their CSR budget.

Philanthropy can be derived from a number of areas including the marketing budget, a dedicated trust or foundation, discretionary funds, or there can be a specific budget dedicated to donations.

The one truth to adhere to, despite how you choose to diversify your income is to create your strategy internally first, gain the vital buy-in from your Board and CEO and plan your attack strategically.

Build relationships first.

Strong relationships last.

Cold proposals end up in the bin.