Fundraising Toolkit

Effective fundraising isn't a onetime event but an ongoing process. And, as with any process, it helps to break things up into manageable steps. Whether you're looking to fund your technology or use technology to raise funds, here are TechSoup's recommended steps to increasing the success of your fundraising campaigns.

Assess Your Needs

Take the time to explore what your organization really needs and work to strategically frame the unique value it brings. Ask yourself, "What can we do better than anyone else in the world — and what do we need to get it done?"

Core Themes Related to Grant Seeking and Technology

How to think strategically about funding your information technology needs.

Position Yourself to Write a Superior Technology Proposal

We’ll show you how a good case statement is the key to raising funds.

Network, Network, Network

This step is necessary to developing and maintaining relationships with funders and others in your field. Though we've listed this as one step in the process, the truth is that to network well, you'll need to communicate often — ;not just when you're asking for support.

Tip: Send out periodic updates to funders and donors so that they feel like they're a part of your organization's success.

What Can Social Networking Do for Your Organization?

Social networking platforms give nonprofits a forum for meeting like-minded organizations and potential supporters, and provide a medium for spreading their messages beyond the immediate community

TechSoup's Tech and Fundraising Forum

Meet other nonprofits and read their fundraising stories in our online forum.

Research Funding Opportunities

Apply for Grants:

Take time to find out which foundations fund your particular work or needs and learn about their areas of interest.

Tip: Look at the organizations that foundations have funded and contact past or current grantees when appropriate.

GrantStation at TechSoup Stock

Membership to GrantStations' online service gives nonprofits access to a comprehensive set of grant research tools for finding current sources of grant money and teaches organizations how to secure available funding. Admin fee: $499.

Engage Individual Supporters:

Reach out to the people who support your organization's cause by interacting with them in creative and thoughtful ways.

Tip: Obtain lists of people who have donated to organizations that appeal to similar markets. Find out what motivated past donors to give, and figure out meaningful ways to leverage that motivation.

A Primer on Online Fundraising for Nonprofit Organizations

There are plenty of funds to be raised on the Web — you just have to know where to look. Here's an introduction to a variety of tools and methods.

Want to Cultivate New List Members? Skip the Small Talk

Using email newsletters to solicit funding? The latest research shows that your chatty introductions may be costing you.

Selecting an Online Donation Tool, Part 1

This first article in Idealware's two-part series explains the types of of donation tools out there, features and functions to look for, and how to choose an online donation tool.

Selecting an Online Donation Tool, Part 2

Once you've determined your needs, read through Idealware's reviews to find the right online donation tool for your organization.

Ask TechSoup: Open-Source Tools for Fundraising?

Looking for affordable fundraising software you can tailor to your organization's needs? We provide you with a quick overview of free, customizable open-source fundraising solutions, including databases and CRM packages.

Search Engines Help Nonprofits Raise Funds, Get Publicity

Search engines aren't just for finding information. A handful of search companies have devised new ways to help nonprofits raise funds and generate awareness.

Online Auctions — Right for Your Nonprofit?

Hosting online auctions is a promising way to generate revenue for some organizations. Find out if they'll work for your organization.

The Red Cross Challenged: Success on the Web

The Red Cross's massive online 9/11 fundraising campaign opened doors for other nonprofits.

Craft a Winning Proposal

Your proposal (whether written or spoken) should clearly articulate who you are and what you can do for the funder or donor.

Tip: Tailor your approach to the particular funder's requirements. It's always best if you can have a conversation or short email exchange before you submit a proposal. If this isn't possible, follow the funder or donor's submission guidelines. If they ask for a letter of intent, send one; if there is an online application, fill it out.

Building a Great Case Statement Funding Planner

Use this sample worksheet to help articulate your vision and get technology to fund your proposal.

Beyond the Case Statement: Your Grant Proposal

A good proposal is more than a great case statement. Learn what makes a proposal great.

Writing a Winning Grant Proposal

Learn how the need for technology can be proposed in an engaging way, and you will get funded.

Other Considerations

Once you've received funding, don't think the hard work is over! As noted in the networking step, you should keep your funders and supporters up to date on your progress.

Virtual Recognition

It's easy to thank your generous donors online.

TechSoup's Technology and Fundraising Forum

Have a fundraising success story? Share it with the nonprofit community in our online forums.