We conclude this blog series on fundraising and stewardship with one of the biggest fundraising mistakes many organisations make: only contacting funders when you need money.

Strong organisations stay in touch even when they are not applying for funding.

Want to take your funding relationships from good to great, build trust that lasts, and secure multi-year funding?

Here’s our must do list.

  1. Make sure your funders see the impact of their investment first-hand. Share occasional updates about your work, celebrate important achievements, and invite funders to events or project visits where appropriate.
  2. Let them know they are appreciated. Where appropriate (and with their permission), acknowledge their support publicly. A simple thank-you in a newsletter or annual report or on social media tells them that their investment is appreciated.
  3. Respect their time. Communication should always be relevant, thoughtful and purposeful.
  4. Funders are people first. Remember birthdays or anniversaries if appropriate, congratulate them on organisational milestones, and engage with their publications or social media posts.

Relationships grow through regular, genuine interaction—not only through funding requests.

The organisations that retain funders over many years are often those that consistently nurture relationships with care, professionalism and gratitude.

Which of your funders are you going to reach out to today?

EM Solutions is passionate about unlocking NPO potential, from systems and processes to fundraising and stewardship. If you would like coaching, strategic input or general NPO audits to help you identify areas to strengthen, get in touch today.