School Fundraising Business Plan: the Ultimate Guide for 2024
Last Updated: 12/17/2023
Why is a School Fundraising Business Plan Important?
A school fundraising business plan is essential for ensuring the success of any school fundraising effort. Without proper planning, it is difficult to secure adequate funding and resources to meet fundraising goals. A comprehensive plan outlines your objectives, strategies, budget, and timeline to provide guidance and accountability. It also helps identify potential risks and how to mitigate them. With a solid plan in place, you will be better positioned to get the support of donors, volunteers, and stakeholders.
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How to write a School Fundraising Business Plan
Executive Summary
An executive summary provides an overview of your school fundraising business plan. It should include:
● Mission statement: The main goal and purpose of your fundraising effort.
● Concept: A brief description of your proposed fundraising activities.
● Execution: How you will implement your plan.
● Costs: Estimated expenses required.
● Projected returns: How much money you aim to raise.
● Strategies and goals: Key methods and objectives.
● Timeframe: The schedule for your fundraising campaign.
Mission Statement
Outline the main mission and objectives of your fundraising effort. State the purpose and values that will guide it. Be concise yet compelling.
Market Analysis
Research the school fundraising industry and your target donors. Analyze the competition and how you differ. Discuss how you will market to potential donors.
Fundraising Goals
Set realistic and specific fundraising goals, including the amount of money needed and deadlines. Explain how you will achieve them through marketing, events, sponsors, etc. Discuss any challenges and how you will address them.
Fundraising Strategies
Detail the key strategies you will employ, e.g., granting, events, crowdfunding campaigns. Provide timelines and budgets for each activity. Discuss how you will measure success.
Budget
Create an accurate budget that includes income and expenses. Break down costs into categories like materials, labour, marketing, and overhead. Leave room for unexpected costs. Use the budget to determine your total fundraising goal.
Marketing Plan
Outline your strategies for raising awareness about your school fundraiser like social media, email, flyers, radio spots, etc. Provide timelines and budgets for each effort. Discuss how you will measure the impact of your marketing.
Evaluation and Measurement
Explain how you will track the progress and success of your fundraising activities and marketing. Set key performance indicators to monitor, e.g., money raised, participation, reach. Make adjustments as needed based on your evaluations.
Risk Management
Identify any risks associated with your fundraising effort like financial, reputational or legal risks. Establish policies and procedures to mitigate them. Set up an emergency fund for unforeseen costs. Monitor risks and be prepared to respond proactively.
Financial Analysis
Provide details on your income projections, expense budgets, and fundraising goals over the timeline of your campaign. Use charts to visually represent this data. Discuss the potential financial impact, risks, and rewards of your school fundraising business plan.
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School Fundraising Financial Forecasts
Startup Expenses
Monthly Operating Expenses
Revenue Forecast
FAQ
How much detail should be in each section?
Focus on being thorough yet concise. Each section should be 3 to 5 paragraphs.
Should I include appendixes or attachments?
Yes, appendixes with additional details on your budget, schedule, marketing samples, etc. can be helpful for readers. Keep attachments brief and relevant.
How often should I review and revise the plan?
It is a good idea to review your school fundraising business plan at least quarterly and revise as needed. Make adjustments based on evaluations to improve future efforts. Minor changes can be made when needed, more significant revisions annually.
