Basic Information On Donor Cultivation Strategies

By Joanna Walsh


Non profit organizations are faced with the challenge of getting donors for sponsorship of their programs and projects for the cause they are supporting. With this, it is very important to nurture a relationship with donors so that fundraising will be successful. Somehow, this will rely on strategies, effective communication, consistency, and reputation.

Before proceeding, we define cultivation as a building of relationship for stewardship. This means that it includes donor cultivation strategies in order to proceed with the programs and projects. A non profit organization is not capable of generating its own funds. Hence, it needs the help of profit organizations like commercial companies.

Unicef and World Vision are some of the best examples of non profit organizations. They help people who are affected in calamities, war, victims of abuse, and a lot more. They are for the elimination of poverty, upholding the rights of individuals, the promotion of education, eradication of slavery, and other causes.

Communication strategies are often the make or break in the cultivation process. They have to make sure that awareness, emotions, information, and the need to act are all incorporated in the strategy. Once the appointment has been made with a prospect, the development or social workers have to set the stage for an overwhelming presentation. Oftentimes, prospects are encouraged to participate if they are interested and if they know what part they will be playing and what benefits they can get also.

Companies are liable for their corporate responsibilities. One way to perform this is participating in charitable organizations. This is one of their ways to give back to the society and the environment that they coexist with. Hence, the nonprofit institutions are their channel in reaching out to the communities.

As part of the cultivation strategies, promotion is done in an active, purposive, and enticing manner. For example, the institution will make video clips or even documentaries of the areas of concern. It helps if they are able to tell the story effectively and touch the hearts of the prospects. Appealing to the emotions is one of the fortes of social and development workers.

The prospective donor needs to be aware of what is going on, why the help is needed, and how much help should be given. It does not matter if the sponsorship will be monetary, materials, or volunteerism as long as they pledge their support. It is also important to build relationships with sponsors so that they will still fund and support the next programs to come.

How consistent an institution is will influence donors. If they see reports in the news, whether in television, print, or internet, some of them will call and communicate with the organization at their own will. They really want to be sure if their donations actually reach the end users. Furthermore, they want to be part of the advertising campaign as sponsors. This will add to brand recognition and customer trust.

Using the media, anything can be possible. Videos, articles, and awareness programs can be done through the internet to call for attention. This way, the public will be aware of what is going on. For most of the time, awareness and understanding of the situation will encourage help and action.




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