17 Proven Strategies For Boosting Fundraising Success

Fundraising is a constant journey for nonprofits. With economic fluctuations and evolving donor priorities, organizations need to rethink how they attract and retain support. To keep moving forward and fulfilling their mission, it’s important to blend innovation with relationship-building in your fundraising approach.

Members of the Forbes Nonprofit Council recently shared the tactics that have helped them succeed. Here’s a breakdown of standout strategies that any nonprofit—big or small—can adopt.

1. Lead with Core Values and Passion

When your organization’s values shine through and are backed by authentic passion, people notice. Stories that reflect integrity, transparency, and impact help donors connect emotionally—and make it easier for them to say yes.

2. Focus on Relationships, Not Just the Ask

Instead of immediately asking for money, focus on building relationships. Get to know your donors, understand what they care about, and find shared values. Trust and loyalty naturally follow.

3. Know Who You’re Talking To

Before reaching out, take the time to understand your audience. Blanket emails and random calls can fall flat—meaningful engagement starts with asking donors why they support your cause and what matters to them.

4. Ask Why Some People Don’t Give

Want to grow your donor base? Start by asking non-donors why they haven’t contributed. Their answers could reveal opportunities to better align your mission with their interests.

5. Align with Donors’ Broader Philanthropic Goals

Sometimes it’s not about proving your worth—it’s about showing how your work complements a donor’s overall giving strategy. Highlight how supporting your nonprofit helps them accomplish their bigger vision.

6. Match Donor Interests with Your Mission

Stop guessing—just ask. Find out what your donors want to achieve, and then show how your organization can help. This transparency can turn one-time donations into long-term investments.

7. Tell Stories That Move People

Facts and figures are important, but stories are what inspire giving. Share narratives that show the human side of your impact—who you help, how you help, and what difference it makes.

8. Try Short Storytelling Campaigns

Launch a short storytelling series—10 days, 10 stories, 10 calls to action. Authentic, time-bound campaigns create urgency and connection without requiring a big budget.

9. Host “Friendraisers” Instead of Fundraisers

Invite board members and supporters to bring new friends to casual events. These low-pressure gatherings help introduce new people to your cause and plant the seeds for future giving.

10. Nurture Existing Donor Relationships

Long-term success comes from cultivating trust over time. Focus on keeping current donors engaged rather than always chasing new ones—it pays off in loyalty and continued support.

11. Invite Influencers to Experience Your Mission

Use annual events as a platform to introduce key community leaders and potential donors to your work. Let them experience your impact firsthand—it can spark future partnerships.

12. Launch an Annual Donor Program

Don’t overlook your small and mid-sized recurring donors. A structured, year-round campaign to engage and grow these relationships can be one of your most powerful funding tools.

13. Know When to Say No

Not every donation is a good fit. Establish a gift acceptance policy so you can gracefully decline offers that don’t align with your values or create a financial burden.

14. Empower Peer-to-Peer Fundraisers

Train ambassadors to tell your story and raise funds in their own networks. Peer-led campaigns build trust and extend your reach in a personal, impactful way.

15. Use Tech to Diversify Funding

Relying on just a few big donors is risky. Use digital tools to reach wider audiences and secure smaller, recurring donations from more diverse sources.

16. Say Thank You—And Mean It

Retention begins with appreciation. A heartfelt thank-you goes a long way, and it’s one of the simplest ways to keep supporters coming back.

17. Keep Showing Up After the Gift

Don’t disappear once the check clears. Follow up months later with updates and continued gratitude. Fundraising isn’t a transaction—it’s a relationship that grows over time.

Final Thoughts
Fundraising isn’t just about money—it’s about connection, communication, and staying true to your mission. These strategies show that when nonprofits focus on values, relationships, and storytelling, they can build stronger, more sustainable support for the long haul.

Source: Forbes