Fundraising is a huge part of the business world. Any project that a person desires to take on will always have massive undercurrents of money out and money in.  In order for a project to get off the ground or for a vision to be realized, there is an unknown amount of money changing hands, being donated from sponsors, and seemingly being made out of thin air.

‘It takes money to make money’ is a popular phrase because when it’s applied to a situation, it’s generally proven to be true. People who can make money out of no money are genius in their own right. They may do this through really great stock market trading, or, more than likely, they’re masters of communication and can fundraise at the drop of a hat in order to meet their goal.

These people know the dos and don’ts of fundraising. If you want to be able to raise money whenever you want for whatever you want, here are the rules you have to abide by.

Fear Won’t Get You in the Green

A lot of people really dislike asking people for things. If you are this person, maybe this isn’t the right career path for you. However, even if you are the kind of person who hates asking for things, this could be your chance to get over that hurdle.

If you don’t ask, you don’t receive. Maybe it’s a matter of hating to be told ‘no’. This is also a hurdle you have to jump over. You have been told ‘no’ a million times in your life and you’re still alive. Life still goes on. You learn for it, you pick yourself up off the floor, and you keep truckin on. The same principle goes for fundraising. It’s people’s money to do with what they want. It’s up to you to keep asking until you find the right people that are going to support your vision.

It’s a Mistake to Only Go After Money

While some people have the resources to write you up a check, others might not have a pocketbook that is allowed to be quite as generous. This doesn’t mean that they aren’t valuable. When you only ask people for their money you create a kind of expectation and culture that says ‘We only want you if you pay up’ and people will not like you for this.

What kind of person likes to be taken advantage of? You need to draw out the things in people that they can give. An example would be someone’s time, talents, or even their word. In addition to this, you need to make their contribution worthwhile.

Give Genuine Acknowledgement

No matter the size of the contribution, it deserves to be praised. If you make a habit of thanking people and acknowledging their gift  in a way that will speak to them, it will make want to continue to support your cause. If you follow these guidelines, they will make it easier for you to reach your goal no matter the avenue or need.

Categories: Credit