Annual Fundraising Plan

Use this step-by-step fundraising plan with a printable pdf workbook and calendar template to help you build your communication plan.

Learn how to create a fundraising plan that connects with your donors and inspires action all year long.

We encourage you to read this guide as well as download our printable workbook and calendar that helps you think through your communications plan and get crystal clear on your messaging strategy.

We provide

  • Multi-channel fundraising strategy
  • Helpful insider tips
  • Pre-written sample messages

Do you want to take your fundraising to the next level?
Our team of digital marketing experts are excited to hear how they can help you raise 4X more this year.

Speak to an expert today!

Planning

How to Create a Fundraising Planning Strategy

We asked our 800 attendees at our “Jumpstart Your Annual Fundraising Plan” webinar (see video in this section), “What are your biggest annual fundraising challenges?” We found out that even if you know how to create a fundraising plan for the year, with great capital campaigns and fundraising events, if you fail to properly plan your communication and donor engagement strategy, you are leaving valuable donation opportunities on the table.

Other big hurdles attendees face are:

  • 24% said that developing a strategy was difficult
  • 34% have a hard time deciding which tactics are best

That inspired us to provide a deeper dive into annual planning strategies with this guide. We’re providing you with some insight into:

  • Monthly messaging strategy from our Digital Marketing Experts
  • Editable writing samples that you can customize
  • Save and use for future planning for your organization

Do you have a small team and need digital fundraising expertise?

Our Digital Marketing Experts can help you create compelling campaigns, contact us for a fundraising consultation to learn more.

Annual Planning Guide

Learn to Make a Comprehensive Fundraising Plan Using this Workbook and Messaging Strategy

Insider Fund Development Tips and Calendar

Each month features a full calendar and cheat sheet of major holidays, giving days, awareness days and insider tips to begin organizing your campaign planning.

Your Communication Plan

A multi-channel fundraising communication plan will enable the broadest reach of your message to increase your offline and online fundraising results. It also creates a more seamless experience for donors across channels and devices, and from program to program.

Pre-written sample messages are provided each month for you to modify for your organization. Simply click into any date or text field to customize the message to convey your organization’s brand and story. Save it and share it with your supporters, volunteers and donors.

Messaging Strategy

Follow our proven communication strategy to increase donor engagement and results. Messages should fall into the four types detailed below and be scheduled so they begin by creating awareness and build to cultivating a long-term relationship with donors.

Exposition

Explain to your donors who you are and why they should care about your cause. Communicate strategically in the beginning of the month through direct mail, email, social posts and texts.

Impact

Ramp up your communication in the middle of the month to let donors know how they can make a difference. Feature those who benefit from your organization in a post or newsletter.

Ask

Create emails to ask and thank donors for their support. Also reach out via text and social posts to increase giving.

Stewardship

Continue to cultivate your relationship with your donors through storytelling on social media, email and text dialogue.

01 JAN: How to start your fundraising plan off on the right foot

Insider Tip: Send a survey, quiz or questionnaire to your donors to ask about the programs that matter the most to them throughout the year

January calendar

Your January Fundraising Communication Plan Example

Check out this video from fundraising coach, Sandy Rees. In this video you will learn the 6 questions nonprofits ask themselves in order to put together a kick-ass fundraising plan to raise all the money they need to fully fund their programs.

Date: January 1stDirect Mail (Headline and Call-to-action)
ExpositionHappy New Year from [Org Name]! Make a difference in people’s lives this year. Visit [orgname].com to find out how you can help.
Date: January 10thSocial Post (Video Link)
Impact
It’s important to think about those in need today and always. Watch how generous donations helped the [Family] get through the cold winter. #CutEnergyCostDay
Date: January 22ndText (Subscribe)
Ask
Sending a virtual hug from [Org Name]! The homeless need more than a hug right now. Text [KEYWORD] to [00000] to donate any amount you can.
Date: January 31stEmail (Embed Image or Video)
StewardshipSubject: You helped turn a family’s life around
Dear [Name],
Meet the [Family], they were able to get housing this winter because of your donation…

02 FEB: Plan to thank and show your donors some love

Insider Tip: Show your donors how much you love them by sending personal messages in February

February calendar

Your February Fundraising Communication Plan Example

Date: February 1stDirect Mail (Headline and Call-to-action)
ExpositionToday, root for [Org] on our quest to end heart disease! Help us give heart patients new hope this year and beyond. Visit [orgname].com to find out how you can help
Date: February 14thSocial Post (Video Link)
ImpactOur heart patients love you. Watch how generous donations helped [Name] find new hope. #ValentinesDay #GoRed #HappyHeart
Date: February 20thText (Subscribe)
AskHelp [Org Name] bring down heart disease and strokes. It’s time to reduce our risk for heart attacks. Text [KEYWORD] to [00000] to stay updated.
Date: February 28thEmail (Embed Image or Video)
StewardshipSubject: You helped bring [000] patients new hope
Dear [Donor Name],
Meet [Name], she was able to prevent a stroke because of your donation…

03 MAR: Keep your donors informed of their impact

Insider Tip: Remind donors what their dollars have done for your organization already by sharing your impact in an infographic

March calendar

Your March Fundraising Communication Plan Example

Date: March 2ndDirect Mail (Headline and Call-to-action)
Exposition[Org Name] believes the best way to show your employee’s appreciation is through diversity and inclusion. Visit [orgname].com to find out how you can help.
Date: March 8th
Social Post (Video Link)
ImpactWe create change for minorities and empower women. Watch how generous donations helped [Name] conquer her biggest fears. #InternationalWomensDay
Date: March 21stText (Subscribe)
Ask
Help [Org Name] create real change for all. Let’s create change for women, families and communities. Text [KEYWORD] to [00000] to donate any amount you can.
Date: March 27thEmail (Embed Image or Video)
StewardshipSubject: You helped bring [000] women to safety
Dear [Donor Name],
Meet [Name], she was able to escape abuse and regain her dignity because of your donation…

04 APR: See how a plan helps you get to know your donors

Insider Tip: Encourage peer-to-peer fundraising campaigns or rally your donors together for volunteer days

April calendar

Your April Fundraising Communication Plan Example

Date: April 2ndDirect Mail (Headline and Call-to-action)
Exposition
We at [Org Name] believe every child deserves a challenging education to help them succeed in life. Visit [orgname].com to find out how you can help
Date: April 12thSocial Post (Video Link)
ImpactKids love grilled cheese. You know what else they love? Smarts. Watch how generous donations helped [Name] fill more than just his belly. #GrilledCheeseDay #[OrgName]
Date: April 22ndText (Subscribe)
AskHelp [Org Name] send [0000] students to camp this year! Together, we can help every child realize their potential. Text [KEYWORD] to [00000] to stay updated.
Date: April 27thEmail (Embed Image or Video)
StewardshipSubject: You helped bring [000] to work today
Dear [Donor Name],
Meet [Name], he was able to fulfill his dream of visiting WWF because of your donation…

05 MAY: Let’s continue to grow your annual fund during the summer

Insider Tip: Grow your donor base by sending personal messages to families and small businesses

May calendar

Your May Fundraising Communication Plan Example

Date: May 4thDirect Mail (Headline and Call-to-action)
Exposition[Org Name] “May the force be with you and help our community do or do not, there is no try.” – Yoda Visit [orgname].com to find out how you can help
Date: May 13thSocial Post (Video Link)
ImpactHappy Mother’s Day to all our hard-working moms out there. Watch how generous donations helped [Name] find her true calling through balance. #HappyMothersDay
Date: May 15thText (Subscribe)
AskHelp [Org Name] give families hope for the future! Families affected by disaster need daily essentials. Text [KEYWORD] to [00000] to donate any amount you can.
Date: May 28thEmail (Embed Image or Video)
Stewardship
Subject: You helped [000] families regain hope
Dear [Donor Name],
Meet [Family], they were able to create new memories because of your donation…

06 JUN: Summer fundraising is a time for fun with your donors

Insider Tip: Have fun with your message and surprise donors by announcing your Run/Walk event on Doughnut Day

June calendar

Your June Fundraising Communication Plan Example

Date: June 5thDirect Mail (Headline and Call-to-action)
Exposition
The earth can’t wait. [Org Name] will never stop fighting for a healthier world for generations to come. Visit [orgname].com to find out how you can help
Date: June 8thSocial Post (Video Link)
ImpactOur oceans can’t wait. Watch how generous donations helped clean up 21,000 gallons of ocean water on the west coast. #WorldOceansDay
Date: June 21stText (Subscribe)
AskHelp [Org Name] keep the environment healthy and clean. It takes [$0000} to plant [000] new trees in the rain forest. Text [KEYWORD] to [00000] to stay updated.
Date: June 27thEmail (Embed Image or Video)
StewardshipSubject: You helped plant [000] trees in the rain forest
Dear [Donor Name],
We were able to plant [000] trees and clean up [000] gallons of water because of your donation…

07 JUL: Show your donors how your annual fund is progressing mid year

Insider Tip: Celebrate the mid-year milestone with your donors by shooting a video to show them how their dollars helped

July calendar

Your July Fundraising Communication Plan Example

Date: July 2ndDirect Mail (Headline and Call-to-action)
Exposition[Org Name] won’t allow any pet to be forgotten. Our program saves pets who are at high risk for euthanasia. Visit [orgname].com to find out how you can help.
Date: July 16thSocial Post (Video Link)
ImpactThrow a dog a cone. Watch how generous donations helped thousands of dogs get a second lick at life. #IceCreamDay #[OrgName]
Date: July 23rdText (Subscribe)
AskHelp [Org Name] save more puppies and kittens! Connect more loving homes and loving pets with us. Text [KEYWORD] to [00000] to donate any amount you can.
Date: July 26thEmail (Embed Image or Video)
StewardshipSubject: You helped [Name] get a new family
Dear [Donor Name],
Meet [Name], he has a new loving family, complete with Aunts and Uncles, because of your donation…

08 AUG: Plan to encourage your donors on a personal level

Insider Tip: Plan a day or weekend camp supporting your organization and others to involve donors on a personal level

August calendar

Your August Fundraising Communication Plan Example

Date: August 5thDirect Mail (Headline and Call-to-action)
ExpositionHelping youth is the key to building a better society. [OrgName] helps build character and life-long friendships. Visit [orgname].com to find out how you can help.
Date: August 9thSocial Post (Video Link)
ImpactWe prefer “Bookworm”
Watch how generous donations helped kids read more than [000] books this summer. #BookLoversDay
Date: August 12thText (Subscribe)
AskHelp [Org Name] create more opportunities for kids! Send kids to camp to make friends and discover the world. Text [KEYWORD] to [00000] to stay updated.
Date: August 31stEmail (Embed Image or Video)
StewardshipSubject: You helped [Name] acquire a new life skill
Dear [Donor Name],
Meet [Name], he was able to learn survival skills with his new friends because of your donation…

09 SEP: Begin to grow your volunteer and supporter base

Insider Tip: Recruit volunteers for your Day of Charity by appealing to them before Labor Day and right after to stay timely

September calendar

Your September Fundraising Communication Plan Example

Date: September 5th
Direct Mail (Headline and Call-to-action)
ExpositionWe work to spread a message of hope for mental health. [OrgName] helps by using creativity as an outlet. Visit [orgname].com to find out how you can help
Date: September 13thSocial Post (Video Link)
Impact“Stigma erodes confidence that mental illnesses are real” Watch how generous donations helped break the stigma behind mental health treatment. #PositiveThinkingDay
Date: September 21stText (Subscribe)
AskHelp [Org Name] break the stigma behind mental health! Help us educate through the use of artistic expression. Text [KEYWORD] to [00000] to donate any amount you can.
Date: September 28thEmail (Embed Image or Video)
StewardshipSubject: You helped [Name] find a new outlet for her anxiety
Dear [Donor Name],
Meet [Name], she was able to tap into writing to help calm her anxiety because of your donation…

10 OCT: Kick your fundraising plan into high gear before the BIG giving season

Insider Tip: Before the busiest time of the year for giving, send out a survey to ask donors how and why they want to give

October calendar

Your October Fundraising Communication Plan Example

Date: October 5thDirect Mail (Headline and Call-to-action)
ExpositionHelp unlock the creative potential for underserved teens. [OrgName] creates a safe space for self-expression. Visit [orgname].com to find out how you can help.
Date: October 12thSocial Post (Video Link)
Impact
Immerse your imagination. Watch how generous donations helped teens perform [00] plays this school year. #WorldSightDay
Date: October 19thText (Subscribe)
AskHelp [Org Name] create a home for diverse performances. Help us educate and nurture innovation through creativity. Text [KEYWORD] to [00000] to stay updated.
Date: October 31stEmail (Embed Image or Video)
StewardshipSubject: You helped [Name] learn to be brave
Dear [Donor Name],
Meet [Name], he was able to figure out how to tell his story in a play because of your donation…

11 NOV: #GivingTuesday is an essential element of a successful fundraising plan

Insider Tip: Build up communication before #GivingTuesday by teaming up with local businesses to appeal to donors personally

November calendar

#GivingTuesday Tips

#GivingTuesday is a Uniquely Mobile Experience

#GivingTuesday is a social media movement at its core and nearly 80% of all social media time takes place on a mobile device. Getting people to promote your campaign from their phone will help reach more donors.

Share Your Fundraising Goals

Let your community know your #GivingTuesday goals and share updates throughout the day so they can share in the results and help you achieve them.

#GivingTuesday Inspires More Supporters

Let your community know your #GivingTuesday goals and share updates throughout the day so they can share in the results and help you achieve them.

Your November Fundraising Communication Plan Example

Date: November 1stDirect Mail (Headline and Call-to-action)
Exposition
From hungry to hopeful. #GivingTuesday [OrgName] provides nourishing food across our community. Visit [orgname].com to find out how you can help.
Date: November 13thSocial Post (Video Link)
ImpactFill plates and offer hope to families in need. Watch how donations helped provide [0000] meals to our community. #WorldKindnessDay #GivingTuesday.
Date: November 27thText (Subscribe)
AskHelp [Org Name] end hunger on #GivingTuesday. Help us distribute food and address the cause of hunger. Text [KEYWORD] to [00000] to donate any amount you can.
Date: November 29thEmail (Embed Image or Video)
StewardshipSubject: You helped [Name] give back to his community
Dear [Donor Name],
Meet [Name], he was able to get back on his feet and be a volunteer because of your donation…

12 DEC: How to end your fundraising plan with a bang

Insider Tip: Create an end-of-year wrap-up video to show your donors how much they did to help your organization all year

December calendar

Year-End Giving Tips

Why a Year-End Campaign is Important

From Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve, generosity skyrockets. People donate to causes they care about more frequently then any other time of year. A strong year-end push can set your organization up to start 2019 stronger than ever.

Comprehensive Year-End Giving Campaigns

Reinforce your message with multiple appeals. It takes a minimum of three exposures of your message for a person to make a decision.

Schedule Messages and Include Impact Metrics

Schedule your text messages for consistency, regardless of what you are doing. Also include impact metrics within your donation page so donors can see how their gift is being used.

Your December Fundraising Communication Plan Example

Date: December 3rdDirect Mail (Headline and Call-to-action)
Exposition
Our mission is to provide service to people in need. [OrgName] resolves to build bridges of hope and mercy. Visit [orgname].com to find out how you can help.
Date: December 10thSocial Post (Video Link)
ImpactWe value all human life. Watch how generous donations helped care for the poor, embrace solidarity and support families. #HumanRightsDay
Date: December 24thText (Subscribe)
AskHelp [Org Name] give more than gifts to people in need. Help us spread good will to our community. Text [KEYWORD] to [00000] to stay updated.
Date: December 24thEmail (Embed Image or Video)
Stewardship
Subject: You helped [Name] find new hope
Dear [Donor Name],
Meet [Name], she was able to get through the holiday season because of your donation…

7 Steps to Your Own Day of Giving

This guide provides ideas on different days throughout the year to reach out to supporters or donors. You can also create your own Day of Giving and have a fun and unique day solely for your organization.

Utilize multiple channels for communications

Share your message through multiple communication channels to increase the likelihood of them being
seen and to keep your cause top-of-mind with donors.

Share videos

Share a video from a person who benefited from your organization or have the Executive Director provide an update or say thank you to make it personal.

Demonstrate impact

Let donors know you are close to your goal to increase the number and amount of gifts. Include impact
metrics for different donation amounts to make it more attainable.

Send a thank you

In addition to an email with their tax receipt, take it one step further and send a written thank you to stay connected with your donors on a personal level. Send at least two updates on how donations are being used to make a difference through your organization.

Boost social media posts on your Day of Giving

Increase the volume of your posts on your Day of Giving to be sure you are seen by a broader audience. Tailor messages to get the word out about other opportunities to support your cause beyond donations.

Communicate frequently

Start early and continue to provide consistent communication up to and through your Day of Giving.

Ask donors if they can be acknowledged

Some donors prefer to be anonymous, but others use it as a way to share their passion for helping others, including your cause. Share the names of donors or a link to your Real-Time Event Thermometer on your Day of Giving on social media.