The Barrow Gang

Creative Strategies for Bold Success

Find Your Tribe

When you start fundraising for your cause, you need to find your cheerleading squad. These early investors should become tried-and-true fans of your organization’s work, but finding your true fans requires a bit of practice.


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3 tips for zeroing in on vital connections

  1. Research and List Potential Stakeholders: Start with a deep dive into the ecosystem of your industry, community, and sector. Compile a comprehensive list of individuals, companies, and organizations that align with your philanthropic cause. Don’t hold back; allow for edits to come later. Initially, you need a broad list of ideas to guide you to the next steps.
  2. Prioritize Stakeholders: Now it’s time to refine your list. Evaluate each potential partner based on their interest in your mission, likelihood of support, and other non-monetary ways they can contribute. It’s vital that the final list includes supporters who offer financial and non-traditional forms of support, fostering a foundation for long-term engagement.
  3. Analyze Needs and Interests: Focus not on your needs, but on the needs of your stakeholders. Great partnerships develop from aligned purposes. Understanding what motivates your partners allows you to tailor your outreach, present your mission effectively, and identify the types of support you need. This approach helps form quick connections that evolve into lasting alliances.

While seeking initial funding requires agility, precision in your early requests is just as crucial. By identifying key stakeholders and carefully building those relationships, you can secure long-term support, ensuring your vital work not only continues but thrives.