Think Tank
The Tarnside Think Tank follows a simple yet proven process. Trustees, patrons, fundraising staff, key project staff, stakeholders and potential major donors can all be involved.
The Problem
Fundraising campaigns can be ineffective because key decision-makers are neither aligned nor working to an agreed plan of action. Targets are missed while time and expenditure are wasted.
When a fundraising opportunity arises, whether through planning or in response to change, how do you ensure that trustees and key senior-management decision makers are equipped and prepared to tackle the challenge and the project? What will motivate them to support a coherent fundraising strategy?
Four questions
- Are all key individuals aligned in their thinking?
- Is there a truly agreed plan for the campaign?
- Are you underselling the value of your appeal?
- Are the critical messages aimed at an internal audience rather than potential funders?
The Event
A series of proven exercises and discussions walk participants through a logical thought process. This enables the stakeholder group to arrive at a campaign strategy that is supported by an enthusiastic, determined and targeted team, whose members understand the ideas behind the project, engage with it and are committed to the plan.
Expert Facilitation
- Helps participants take a broader view and focuses the minds of all involved.
- Brings participants to explicit agreement over the key messages of the campaign.
- Brings experience of other campaigns to help develop a practical fundraising strategy.
The Outcomes
Participants leave enthusiastic about the task ahead, having developed strategies that will bring success. They share:
- A realistic grasp of the challenge;
- The importance of a structured rather than scattergun approach to fundraising; and
- Agreement on the key selling points for the campaign.
The organisation has developed a clear, agreed strategy based on a logical process. Key individuals are aligned and committed to the plan and anxious to begin work. Everything is in place for a successful fundraising campaign.
A pdf with an introduction to The Tarnside Think Tank can be printed here
