An effective, profitable fundraising event requires extensive planning, budgeting, volunteers and coordination. In other words.......A LOT OF WORK! When it comes to fundraisers, it's impossible to foresee every problem that may occur; however, the following tips may help you avoid common fundraising event mistakes. Failure to Form a Fundraising Committee First things first. Form a fundraising committee comprised of dedicated volunteers who are willing to take charge of certain tasks. Never tackle the challenge of putting together a fundraising event alone or with minimal volunteers. Crisis Mode Fundraising Avoid THROWING TOGETHER a fundraiser to address an immediate financial emergency. Hosting a fundraising event requires extensive planning. Allow a minimum of four to six months for planning. Failing to Research Conflicting Events The goal of a fundraising event is NOT to simply attract dedicated supporters of your cause, but to attract new donors and volunteers. It is imperative to thoroughly research possible conflicts. Search Community Calendars and Similar Organization Websites to help identify conflicts. Failing to Prepare a Budget Failing to create and follow a strict budget can drastically and negatively impact the potential profits of the intended FUNDRAISING event. Be mindful of expenses (large and small) not included in the budget. Assumption of Donations Donated items are key components for the success of a fundraising event. Part of the planning process should include a strategy for requesting In-Kind donations; the danger lies in DEPENDING upon them. Necessary items should be included in the budget. If these items are actually donated, the profit margin increases. Lack of Back-Up Planning A back-up plan is necessary in the event of inclement weather or unforeseen emergencies. Failing to Abide by Local Laws and Ordinance Verify that the event is covered under an existing insurance policy or whether an umbrella policy may be necessary. Obtain ALL required permits and be aware of ordinances that have the potential to interrupt or shut down the event. (Example: Noise, Traffic or Parking Ordinances) Lack of Marketing Strategy Social media platforms are great tools; however, this resource should never be relied upon as the ONLY source of marketing. Awareness is a must! Networking is necessary to help increase awareness. Again, the budget should include advertising costs. Professional Fee/Contract Misunderstandings Read contracts CAREFULLY regarding payment, equipment and fees for speakers, musicians, etc. Equipment Issues/Security
When at all possible, have extra equipment or qualified staff that can correct an issue. Problems with sound systems, refrigeration units, air-conditioning/heat and outdoor electric outlets can RUIN a fundraising event. Also, SECURITY is vital for the protection of attendees, workers and facilities.
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GUARANTEED GRANT FUNDING Beware of false, deceptive and misleading websites that offer information that imply guaranteed grant funding. Grant funding is an award that is determined by the grantor. NEVER send money to get money. Do not be misled by the many books and websites that promise guaranteed grants or suggest that money is just sitting around waiting for you to take it. GO BACK TO SCHOOL FREE Individuals cannot apply for grants to go back to school. Colleges and Universities are eligible to apply for and receive funding from a variety of sources including state and federal government grants. These institutions then award individuals monies in the form of scholarships and grants to individuals that match their specific criteria. START YOUR OWN BUSINESS Grant funding is not provided to individuals to start a business. The government does provide grant funding to various non-profit organizations and state and local programs to assist. That said, the government does offer some assistance for small businesses to obtain low interest loans. Contact your area's Small Business Administration for more details. BUY A HOUSE Once again, federal grant funding is provided to non-profit organizations, state and local governments to help with low income housing. Some financial institutions will also help with low interest loans for qualified buyers. Individual grant funding is not provided for this purpose. If it sounds too good to be true, it is!
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AuthorTammie Tuley, author and speaker, shares her expertise, tips and often hilarious adventures to help others navigate this maze we refer to as life. Archives
May 2022
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