Raising Seed Funding
Part of “The Hero’s Guide to Nonprofit Fundraising” (Scroll down to jump the the modules)
One doesn’t go straight from “launch” to a mass-based fundraising program (e.g., direct mail or online through email and social media); it simply consumes too much time and too many financial resources.
Therefore, that’s generally not the best place to start. So, what to do? The best way to raise more than a few bucks selling cupcakes or candy (or some other “salesy” product that contributes to the health crisis in America) is direct solicitation to your “warm market” – your friends and family . If that word scares you, call it “1-on-1 Cause Building”. Even though your Mom and your friends are the ones who sometimes seem skeptical about your “brilliant ideas”, they are also the ones most likely to support any venture.
If done correctly using a simple plan, you’ll be amazed at your ability to raise the all-important seed capital you need. Here are the steps:
- 1Create your “One-Sentence Mission Statement” (you already did this, right? If not, go do it now!)
- 2Write your 1-Page Nonprofit Business Plan
- 3Create a presentation (printed or on your computer in PowerPoint or Keynote) and write a script to speak over it
- 4Make a 100-person list of people who, on the BEST day, would at least listen to your noble idea to make the world a better place: Friends, relatives, associates, the guy who sold you your last car, the woman you get tomatoes from at the Farmer’s Market. Don’t prequalify, just write.
- 5Start calling to request 1-on-1 meetings at the local diner or coffee shop. If the person lives too far to meet, see Item #12.
- 6Do. This. Now.
For more detail, tune in for our series(click to read the post)
The Hero’s Guide to Nonprofit Fundraising: Raising Seed Funding
How to Raise Seed Capital by Phone (click to read the post)
Friends and Family – Mailing (coming soon)
1-to-1 In Person for Higher-Dollar Requests – (coming soon)
Small Local Events – (coming soon)
