Case for Support Tips

Many organizations do not have a written case for support and often don’t even think about the need for one until they are ready for a capital campaign. Every organization should have a written case for support from which they will develop all their fundraising materials. Here are ten tips to make sure your case is compelling.  

1. Always write your case form the viewpoint of the donor, not from the organization's perspective. What would motive a donor to give to your organization?



2. Make sure your mission, vision and values are included in the case. If you don't have these in place, start developing them.



3. Develop an interesting history of your organization that answers these questions: Why does your organization exist? What has been your track record of success?



4. Demonstrate creditability. What credentials does your staff possess? Are your board members known and well respected in the community?



5. Explain the need, not just from the organization standpoint. People don't give because "we need more space, we need to hire staff, and we need to pay our bills." They give because the organization is filling a need in the community. "This campaign will allow us to expand out services to 500 more families each month."



6. Include personal stories of the people your organization is helping. People give to people.



7. Demonstrate the financial need. Tell people how much money you are trying to raise and what this money will allow the organization to accomplish. There must be a plan that demonstrates the organization can do what it says it will do. A table of gifts will help show the need for leadership gifts.



8. Offer opportunities to participate. Show donors how they can be part of the success. Give them options an outright cash gift, a pledge, gifts in kind, planned gifts, etc.



9. Test your case. Ask some f your top donors if they find the written case compelling — would they give to this cause after reading the case? If not, ask what they would suggest to improve it.



10. Remember that a compelling case must have both emotional and rational appeal. Using photos and personal stories will draw people in emotionally but before they write the check they want to make sure your plan will work.

If you need additional help with your case, check out our recommended book section for Developing Your Case for Support by Timothy Seiler or contact CAPITAL VENTURE for help in writing your case.

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