Work Smarter, Not Harder: How Fundraisers Can Empower Their Leadership Teams
Ever feel like you’re carrying the entire fundraising load on your back? You’re not alone—but it doesn’t have to be this way. One of the most game-changing shifts I made in my fundraising practice was realizing: it takes a village.
Too often, we assume fundraising is the sole responsibility of the development team or CEO. But sustainable fundraising thrives when your entire leadership team is in the game. Here’s how to build that capacity—without losing your mind.
🎯 Why It’s Worth It
- Share the load: Fundraising fatigue is real. Equipping others on your team to contribute spreads the responsibility.
- Build credibility: The more people who can speak confidently about your work, the more authentic and convincing your story becomes.
- Increase ROI: Leaders often attend events with potential funders. Let’s make sure they’re ready to engage—not just attend.
👥 Where Your Leadership Team Can Step In
- Funder meetings: Subject matter experts bring insight funders value.
- Speaking gigs: Help them tailor their messages to inspire donor interest.
- Site visits: Equip them to host with purpose, not just presence.
🛠️ How to Build Their Capacity
- Skills assessments: Understand their strengths and gaps. Some might ace one-on-ones but struggle with public speaking.
- Plan ahead: Map the events they’re attending and prep them for who’ll be in the room.
- Speaking points & memos: Prepping your team sets them up to shine.
- Storytelling tools: Help them frame the organization’s work through a powerful, human-centered lens.
- Feedback loops: Debrief after meetings—what worked, what didn’t?
Your leadership team can become your biggest fundraising allies—with a little investment and intention.
👣 Ready to take action?
Take 10 minutes this week to identify one upcoming event or meeting your leadership team will attend. Draft a short memo or talking points to help them confidently speak about your organization. It’s a small step—but a powerful one.