FDA feasibility testing, or market study, will provide useful insight into how the organization is viewed by insiders and community leaders; will provide vetted recommendations for a realistic and appropriate campaign goal; will assess the organization’s readiness for a campaign; will outline effective fundraising strategies; and will present recommendation for a preliminary campaign timetable.
We can advise organizational annual giving programs with a wide range of services. From the development audit, used to determine the potential and challenges of your giving office, to the tactical production of annual giving materials and solicitation letters, FDA can be especially helpful in upgrading and keeping an organization’s development efforts on track.
At FDA, strategic planning involves an organization’s board, senior staff, and key volunteers in a thorough investigation of the institutional priorities and financial needs. The process helps an organization plan for the future, while also bringing together all stakeholders in producing the final product.
FDA has broad foundation and corporate relations experience with a very successful track record of obtaining grants, including multiple Kresge Foundation awards. We can identify private and corporate foundation prospects, as well as governement sources, and develop persuasive and concise proposals. We manage all aspects of grant management, including grant reporting and stewardship.
During staff transitions, FDA is able to serve as temporary executive staff, helping to keep the organizational priorities moving forward while also evaluating plans for all development program components. This allows time for organizations to thoroughly vet and hire appropriate permanent staff without losing momentum on programs or organizational goals.
With an understanding skills, experiences, and exposure to the field necessary to flourish, FDA conducts and facilitates search processes for development staff and leadership positions. We can also provide new hire trainings related to a variety of topics.
FDA’s individualized approach, involving one-on-one and small group sessions with board members, other volunteers and key staff, strengthen the board’s ability to fundraise and govern effectively. We can also facilitate the development of a volunteer pipeline to cultivate and recruit new leadership that meets the organization’s needs.