Introduction to Fundraising

Fundraising is not charity; it’s social change. When we ask for money in exchange for our important work, we are telling the world our work has value. When we talk about money we are breaking the social taboo around money; we are challenging and changing the status quo.

~ Sarah Butler, Girls Action Foundation

There is nothing better than finding out you just got funding to do a project that is so important to so many people. Donors and people in funding organizations can become your allies. It is inspiring to know that here is support for what you do; funding or donations are one form of support.

– Juniper, Girls Action Foundation

Fundraising can be a challenge, but it can also be another great way to get the word out about girls’ issues and programs. However you decide to go after funding, remember that you are not alone! Connect with the Girls Action Network for advice and encouragement.

Keep these tips in mind:

• It is helpful to take fundraising workshops. Local community organizations, funders and consultants may offer sessions.

• Ask for help from people who have experience in fundraising.

• Support project proposals with solid research and credibility through community support, letters, media coverage or partners. See the Girls Action’s research reviews, under Our Publications in the Online Resource Centre for useful research quotes.

• Don’t send a proposal without establishing a connection with the funder. Call in advance, set up a meeting, pitch your idea, look for a fit with the funder and frame your work from their perspective. This is the “homework” that you need to do before sending in a proposal.

• The key to fundraising is getting in the door. This requires finding the door. Networking is really important. Seek support and be persistent! Bang on the door until it opens! Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

• In not-for-profit fundraising there can be a lot of inaccessible language and bureaucracy. This can be challenging. Leverage support from those who can help you learn how to navigate this system. See the section Why Are Allies Important? for more information.

• Get financial management advice when you have accounting needs. You can find volunteers with this expertise as well.

• Think about long-term sustainability. Funders will want to see that you have plans that extend beyond the life of their grant.

• Don’t get discouraged! It can take time to get funding, so don’t worry if it doesn’t work out at first.

• Make a list of resources that you can get for free (volunteers, donated space, materials, and so on). Recognizing other kinds of resources helps to put things into perspective. For example, you can tap into volunteers, space that can be donated, advisory committee commitment and contribution, and possible in-kind donation opportunities, such as getting food donated from the local grocery store, or asking the neighbourhood printer to donate services.

• Confront personal issues about asking for money. Get to a place where you feel comfortable creating opportunities for people to contribute to your dream! A good fundraising workshop will challenge deep-rooted assumptions about asking for money.

• Join conversations and movements that are challenging the current funding realities. The women’s movement in Canada is demanding that the government re-establish support for women’s organizations. Other organizations are working to create innovative ideas to support their work and efforts.

Where to find resources:

• Local library

• Local community information centre

• Volunteer centre

• The United Way

• The Red Book (if the Liberal Party is in power provincially) or the Blue Book (if the Conservative Party is in power provincially). These are directories of social services and service clubs that may offer funds, or support in fundraising. The Red (or Blue) Book can be found at your local library.

• Service clubs

• Other non-governmental organizations that rely on fundraising

For a Sample “Asking for Donation” Letter, see Appendix 1.

Additional fundraising resources are available on our Online Resource Centre