When you’re creating a campaign, a feasibility study will tell you the funds you’re likely to raise and how long it may take. A good study will address these issues and will bring to your attention ways that your organization’s success can be maximized.
First, your study should address the issues of how supporters view your vision, a way to ensure that everyone agrees on that vision, what supporters see as being your organization’s strengths and weaknesses, and the best way to highlight your strengths and face the weaknesses. What are the best methods of marketing your mission to new, as well as longtime, donors? Keep in mind that donors want to know both why your organization exists and how it functions.
Your feasibility study can also help you evaluate your volunteers and take on new ones. The issues to think about are who would be best suited for leadership, the ways to better engage volunteers in your mission, and the committees you will need during your campaign, as well as the responsibilities those committees will have.
Next, consider the probable support sources for your campaign, the best way to solicit donations, the likely total of your probable donations, and the steps to take to bridge the gap between that figure and your goal.
Lastly, evaluate your staff members’ current responsibilities and how those responsibilities will change during your campaign. Consider the additional staff the campaign will require. Think about the funds you will need to invest in your campaign.
The most important thing at the end of your feasibility study is that your have a clear idea of where your organization stands now and where it is headed. In taking these steps to assess your organization, you will find ways to maximize your campaign’s effectiveness and aid donors in walking with you with a focus on the difference your organization makes.
Information taken from: Edith H. Falk. “Capital Campaigns: How to Maximize Your Feasibility Study.”
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--Kelsey Luffman is a Research Assistant at Christian Foundation Grants (www.christianfoundationgrants.com) which is subscription database of foundations that provide grants to faith based organizations. iDonate.com is a website (www.iDonate.com) that allows ministries to receive non cash gifts online