FND 160 | Intro to Development Planning and Budgeting

A deliberate process preparing you for the future, resource-development planning does not have to be complex or time-consuming: It can be pragmatic, simple, and built into the existing internal routines of your organization. Whichever approach you take, this course shows you how to implement a reliable resource development planning process in your own organization.

There are many different ways that organizations raise funds. In large organizations, specialized staff (and consultants) in the development department may focus on one approach, working in parallel with others engaged in delivering programs, accounting finances, and marketing the organization’s mission. For smaller organizations, the "development office" may be one part of someone's job, perhaps supplemented by a supportive group of volunteers who take responsibility for an event or other fundraising project. Leading a successful development effort requires a variety of skills and competencies. The biggest challenge, no matter what the size of the organization, is to match the chosen method (or methods) of fundraising with the mission, the characteristics of potential supporters, and the resources available to do the necessary work. 

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

• Recognize an effective development plan using SMART goals that define fundraising strategies and targets, taking into consideration the organization’s mission, strategic plan and goals, and available resources and capacity.
• Identify the key roles for staff and volunteers in fundraising for your organization.
• Assess the health of your organization’s development and fundraising culture.

AUDIENCE

Whether staff, volunteer, or board member, if you are new to nonprofits or new to fundraising, this series of classes is for you! The individual courses in the Certificate of Fundraising Essentials are at the 100 (introductory) level and designed for people looking for the fundamentals of primary revenue sources and of managing successful fundraising and development operations.

For intermediate/advanced coursework on these topics, please check out our additional Fundraising and Development certificates and courses in our Course Catalog.