The Fundraiser’s Toolbox

You know that fundraising is hard work. To be successful you need to be well equipped to take on all its challenges. At SOFII, we thought you might like some help. So we’ve put together this fundraiser’s toolbox that we’ll be filling with essential examples, formats, articles, case studies, ideas and tips that we think every fundraiser should know about.

Trends of the Covid-19 pandemic on fundraising in the UK and the USA

by Daryl Upsall & Jorge Hernando

Could a focus on young people and new avenues of fundraising be a key to beating the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic?

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The science of fundraising: Ask a behavioural scientist, part three

by Kiki Koutmeridou

Does naming your campaign improve acquisition? What should you call your monthly donor programme? The answer to these and other fundraising questions may be found in behavioural science.

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Charity Chat Podcast - How does SOFII inspire fundraisers worldwide?

by Samuel Davies

Joe Burnett, our contributing editor, talks with Samuel Davies of Charity Chat in this great podcast. They discuss the virtues of SOFII and give an insider’s look at what the site and the charity can offer you. 

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Furloughed Fundraisers Chat: A safe space to be

by Claire James

In a time of crisis for fundraisers, a wonderful group of furloughed charity professionals have gathered together on Facebook to help and support one another.

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Sweet Farm: ‘Goat 2 Meeting’ digital fundraising

by Joshua Leigh

For his presentation at IWITOT 2020, Josh Leigh wished he'd thought of getting goats to join Zoom calls during the coronavirus pandemic. Yes, that's a thing.

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SAVE FINZ: Emergency direct mail appeal

by Joe Burnett

Facing difficult financial straits due to coronavirus, the Fundraising Institute of New Zealand launched an unprecedented matched funds appeal and brought in support from all around the world.

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The Great Bungay Duck Race: Virtual success in 2020

by Joe Burnett

How one small charity in rural England had to innovate and try out new ideas to ensure their event went ahead. When coronavirus forced them to go virtual, they did in style.

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The time for leadership - giving in the time of coronavirus

by Mark Phillips

The latest body of research by Mark Phillips and Bluefrog Fundraising highlights the need for leadership at a crucial time for fundraisers.

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The science of fundraising: Ask a behavioural scientist, part two

by Kiki Koutmeridou

From use of language to matching gifts via anthropomorphism of animals and end of fiscal year campaigns, behavioural scientist Dr. Kiki Koutmeridou answers key questions in fundraising from a scientific perspective.

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Bhopal Medical Appeal: At a time of crisis, Bhopal's clinics give back something beyond price

by Ken Burnett

In this time of crisis, these newspaper and magazine ads by the Bhopal Medical Appeal return the love they received from their donors 25 years ago.

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The science of fundraising: Ask a behavioural scientist, part one

by Kiki Koutmeridou

Why do people give and how can we persuade them to give more or continue donating? Maybe the answer lies in behavioural science? We’re delighted to be able to share this first Q&A on the topic with Dr Kiki Koutmeridou.

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Italy’s fundraising task force: Helping hospitals during the pandemic

by Umberto Tramontano and Diego Maria Ierna

Faced with an unprecedented crisis that put Italy at the forefront of the fight against coronavirus, over 40 of the country's leading fundraisers have volunteered their time and expertise to help raise money for struggling hospitals. 

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