Step One of Ten

Define Your Mission & Goals

The first step in preparing a successful fundraising application is to clearly define your charity’s mission and goals. Start with your mission statement, which should concisely explain why your organisation exists, the issues it addresses, and the community it serves. This statement provides the foundation for your fundraising efforts, helping potential funders to understand your organisation’s purpose and values.

Next, identify the specific goals for your fundraising campaign. These goals should be concrete, outlining exactly what you hope to achieve with the funds. For instance, if you are raising money for a new program, detail how much funding is needed, what the program will entail, and the impact it will have on your target population. Use SMART targets (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to ensure your goals are clear and attainable.

Define how the funds will be used and the expected outcomes. Provide a detailed explanation of the project for which you are seeking support, including the problem it addresses, the proposed solution, and the expected benefits. Articulate the impact the funding will have on your organisation and its beneficiaries. Clear, well-defined goals not only make it easier for funders to understand your needs but also enhance the credibility and appeal of your application.

One of the AI features within Grant Genie will automatically help you to generate this content to describe what your organisation is about and what you need the funding for.

By thoroughly defining your mission and goals, you create a strong foundation for your fundraising application, making it easier to align your needs with potential funders’ interests and priorities. 

Image Credit: Ronnie Overgoor (unsplash.com)