Fundraising Consultation and Development Plans

Strategies that make sense and plans that actually get implemented; these are the keys to a successful fundraising department. For so many new and smaller non-profits, it’s hard to know where to begin when creating a development department and devising a strategy. We work with you to recognize your areas of strength maximize your resources and make suggestions for what types of fundraising will work for you and what methods won’t. There is a science to fundraising and one size does not fit all so let Amsden Consulting work with you to get a great start based on ambitious goals that are grounded in realistic expectations.

Development Writing & Marketing

Is it hard to tell your organization’s mission at first blush? Are your external documents in four different fonts and three different letterheads? Does your marketing collateral lack a clear voice? Our expertise in development writing is grounded in 20 years of experience. We can work with you to create website copy that is vibrant and focused, brochures that promote your organization without muddying your message, newsletters and e-news that engage your readers, appeal letters, auction programs and much more. By bringing clarity to your message, Amsden Consulting will help your organization have the maximum impact on their constituents both current and potential.

Please Note: Though Amsden Consulting specializes in many types of development writing, we do not do grant writing. We feel strongly that a sound grant program is key to a successful non-profit, but we also know that professional and successful grantwriting is grounded in the grantwriters thorough understanding of and ongoing close relationship to the organization they work for. We are happy to make a referral to one of our excellent grantwriting partners.

Campaign Planning and Support

For many small non-profits, the addition of a capital campaign or other special fundraising effort to their current mission and regular programs can be overwhelming .  Amsden Consulting can provide fundraising expertise and campaign planning for all non-profits including those organizations that have a small or non-existent fundraising staff.  By leading the campaign planning and providing support and coordination among the varying constituencies involved in the campaign – staff, board and volunteers – we help organizations set achievable goals and provide them the tools for successful campaigns.

Event Planning & Management

The thousands of details and logistics inherent in producing events can be overwhelming. Amsden Consulting’s hands-on event management experience – from nearly every aspect of event management including planning, catering, site coordination, registration, auctions and fundraising – is what makes our support so valuable and puts us above and beyond the others. From coordinating a volunteer planning committee to managing ‘night of’ logistics, from ticket sale strategies to getting buy in from your Board. We can help you host an event that is heavy on revenue and fun! and light on expenses and drama. Let us help your organization bring polish, energy and efficiency to your next event.

Interim Executive Support

It takes an average of 2 to 4 weeks for a non-profit executive to leave an organization; it takes considerably longer than that to replace them. The smaller the staff, the more detrimental the impact can be. Amsden Consulting offers interim support during maternity leaves, sick leaves and protracted executive searches. Our years of experience means we can offer sound advice and be up to speed quickly. Our professionalism means you will be guaranteed the confidentiality that is crucial to building and sustaining relationships with donors and sponsors.

Advice for the Businesses Seeking to Partner with Non-Profits

As the non-profit sector continues to grow, so do the opportunities that are available to their for-profit partners both potential and existing. Yes, non-profits need to watch the bottom line but they also truly value long-term partnerships with small and large businesses and can provide valuable marketing in return. It’s not just about giving away your money; it’s about building a mutually beneficial partnership that can provide volunteer opportunities for your staff, marketing exposure for your products and good will in your community. Learn how to tap into the non-profit sector by understanding what non-profits are looking for and what they value.