Eight Principles for a Successful Annual Campaign

The annual campaign is the building block for all fundraising. It serves to establish a base of donors that can serve as an effective device to involve, inform, and bond a constituency to the organization.  It can further serve as an instrument that compels accountability to the cause the organization is serving. Here are eight guiding principles for a successful annual campaign:

1. Personal face-to-face solicitation is the most efficient and effective form of fundraising.
2. 100% board participation is essential.
3. Each prospect should be asked to consider giving a specific amount.
4. Volunteers are effective if properly trained, supported, and thanked.
5. Challenge gifts are effective in both raising donor sights and empowering volunteer solicitors.
6. The case for support must be presented clearly and concisely.
7. Donor recognition and stewardship are important parts of the fundraising process.
8. Individual donors are the greatest source of funds.