Strategic planning is not only great, it is necessary to set an organization, staff, and board up for success. What is often missed however, is the importance of a fund development plan. How do you know what you can do in a strategic plan if you don’t know what money you have to support and implement the included items?
Fund development is essential. It is the infrastructure supporting any nonprofit activity. Fund development discussions connect board, staff, and volunteers to the reality of the organizations reach and potential. Including an additional fundraiser in a strategic or annual plan is great, but is there money to do it properly?
Everything a nonprofit does comes down to the following, like a three-legged stool, time, talent, and treasure (money). Without all three elements there will be obstacles on the path to success.