Campaign Readiness Check

Area 1 of 5

The case

1. How clearly can you describe what the campaign would fund?

We know we need more money, but not yet for what.We have a broad ambition (e.g. "expand our services") but no defined projects.We have defined projects, but they are not yet costed or prioritised.We have costed, prioritised projects a donor could picture and fund.

Why it matters: Donors fund named projects they can hold in their hands, not needs.

2. Has anyone outside the organisation tested the proposition?

No, it has not left the building.Staff and board have discussed it.A few supporters have seen it informally.It has been tested in structured conversations with likely donors.

Why it matters: A case is not finished until the people who will fund it have shaped it.

Area 2 of 5

Leadership

3. How much time could your CEO give to the campaign?

Very little; the CEO sees fundraising as the fundraising team's job.Occasional meetings when asked.A few hours a month, willingly.A real commitment: regular donor meetings and campaign leadership.

Why it matters: Lead donors expect to meet the CEO. No campaign of scale succeeds without one.

4. How engaged is your board in fundraising?

The board approves budgets but does not see fundraising as its role.Some members are supportive in principle.Several members would make introductions if asked.Board members give personally and actively open doors.

Why it matters: Board giving and board introductions are where lead gifts usually start.

5. Are there people outside the organisation who would champion the campaign?

No one comes to mind.One or two names, but we have not asked.Several well-connected supporters who care deeply about the work.Senior people who have already offered to help, or could chair a council.

Why it matters: A Philanthropy Council of senior advocates opens doors staff cannot.

Area 3 of 5

Relationships

6. What is the largest single gift your organisation has received from an individual, family, or company in the last five years?

Under €10,000€10,000 to €49,999€50,000 to €249,999€250,000 or more

Why it matters: The size of your largest gifts is the best early signal of what a campaign can reach.

7. How well do you know your potential major donors?

We have not identified them.We have a list of names, but little more.We have a list with some research on capacity and interest.We have a rated list (capacity, linkage, interest) and a named relationship owner for each.

8. How many people could you call tomorrow about a gift of €50,000 or more?

None.One to five.Six to fifteen.More than fifteen.

Why it matters: Campaigns are raised from relationships that already exist.

Area 4 of 5

Team and systems

9. Who would manage major donor relationships day to day?

No one; it would be added to someone's existing role.A fundraiser who covers major gifts among other things.A dedicated major gifts lead.A dedicated team with clear portfolios.

10. How do you track major donor relationships?

In people's heads and inboxes.In a spreadsheet or a CRM that is not kept up to date.In a CRM, with contact history recorded.In a CRM, with a weekly routine of planned next steps for every prospect.

Area 5 of 5

Timing

11. Where does the campaign sit in your organisational strategy?

There is no current strategy, or the campaign is not in it.The strategy mentions growth, but not a campaign.The campaign is in the strategy but not yet approved by the board.The board has approved the strategy and the ambition behind the campaign.

12. Is there budget to invest in the campaign?

No investment budget.We would need to find it.Some budget is earmarked.The board has approved an investment budget.

Why it matters: Campaigns cost money before they raise it.