5 Fundraising Strategies for Small Healthcare Organizations
While fundraising is a key component to nonprofits of all sizes, small healthcare organizations often don’t have the resources of large health systems. This means fundraising is even more crucial for small healthcare organizations to maintain and expand their services than large ones. Smaller organizations will need to focus on efficiency in fundraising and the highest revenue generating activities. Here are five of those targeted strategies that are effective for small healthcare organizations with limited resources.
1. Engage Volunteers in Fundraising
You knew this was coming. Utilizing volunteers can be a challenge to manage, but can transformationally expand your reach and resources. Volunteers can help you get connected with a broader network, set meetings for asks, and serve as passionate advocates for your cause. By training volunteers in fundraising techniques and empowering them to share their enthusiasm for your mission, you create a larger, committed group of supporters who are invested in your organization's success. It doesn’t hurt having some more people in your corner as well.
2. Launch a Focused Campaign
A focused campaign with specific projects or programs allows you to direct fundraising efforts towards clear goals. It will mathematically expand your fundraising revenue many times over if done correctly. Define your very specific projects and outcomes, set concrete revenue targets, and use a deadline to add urgency. Communicate clearly how the funds will be used and the difference they will make. This not only motivates donors to contribute but also helps them understand the importance of their support “now”.
3. Focus on Relationships with Your Own Community
In smaller organizations, we don’t always have the luxury of excess resources and broader reach of bigger healthcare nonprofits. So building strong relationships with local businesses, community leaders, and individuals is even more essential. These local stakeholders have a direct interest in a healthy community and can offer more than just financial support. They can provide partnerships and resources that increase your visibility and effectiveness. Regular engagement and communication with these community members help to sustain their support and promote long-term relationships.
4. Conduct a Feasibility Study
If you are an organization of any size looking to kickstart scaling up your nonprofit’s fundraising revenue, starting with a feasibility study will allow you to eliminate the guesswork. This study should yield a major gifts prospect list, a compelling case for support, volunteer leadership, a detailed plan with a timeline, and the pulse about your organization in the community. This coupled with the cultivation touchpoint of several potential stakeholders is a wonderful way to educate people about your plans for providing healthcare in your community. These elements are crucial for structuring your fundraising efforts effectively and ensuring they are ambituous, yet achievable within your community context.
5. Demonstrate Impact and Steward Donors
In small healthcare organizations, where fundraising efforts often rely on a smaller group of donors than larger ones, demonstrating impact and stewarding donors is even more critical. Make it clear how each donation has been used and the direct benefits it has brought about. Encourage a sense of community among donors by creating exclusive groups or membership levels that make them feel part of a valued “tribe”. Regular updates, thank-you events, and public recognition can make donors feel appreciated and part of a larger mission, increasing their engagement and ongoing support.
It can feel like “you against the world” if you’re fundraising for a small healthcare organization. Adopting these strategies can significantly improve fundraising outcomes for small healthcare organizations. By focusing on these targeted areas that are the highest revenue producing, your organization can not only meet its immediate financial needs but also build a strong foundation for future growth and success.
Having trouble raising money for your small healthcare organization? That’s what we do! Send us a message and we would be happy to schedule a chat with someone from our team. Don’t wait for your nonprofit to start achieving it’s revenue goals.
