Fundraising from individuals remains a cornerstone of resource mobilization for nonprofit organizations. Various methods cater to different donor profiles and engagement preferences. Below are key approaches that have proven effective in individual fundraising:

1. Event-Based Fundraising

Organizing fundraising events is a popular method to generate support and visibility for a cause. Events such as charity dinners, walkathons, cultural programs, or auctions offer opportunities for engagement and can become signature annual activities. Success depends on thorough planning, adherence to local regulations, strategic media outreach, and effective cost-benefit analysis.

However, events can strain human resources and carry risks such as inclement weather or low attendance, potentially resulting in financial loss and reputational damage. A dedicated event team, risk mitigation strategies, and strong partnerships are essential to ensure positive outcomes.

2. Personal Solicitation

Face-to-face fundraising remains one of the most effective methods for engaging individual donors. Personal interactions—whether through home visits, in-office meetings, or follow-up conversations—allow organizations to build trust and present compelling cases for support.

Success in personal solicitation requires identifying potential donors with a demonstrated interest, crafting persuasive messages, and involving individuals with strong interpersonal skills. Visual aids, donor testimonials, and post-meeting follow-up enhance credibility and foster lasting relationships. While time-intensive, this approach yields high returns when executed strategically.

3. Network Fundraising (Friend Raising)

Often referred to as “friend raising,” this method leverages existing relationships to broaden donor networks. Current donors, board members, staff, and community influencers (connectors) can play vital roles in reaching new supporters. Donors are more likely to give when approached by someone they trust.

Network fundraising is particularly effective when targeting diaspora communities, such as non-resident Bangladeshis in the UK, USA, and Australia. Customized materials—such as friendship kits, personal letters, or dedicated campaign pages—can support outreach. Board and staff endorsement, coupled with a clear campaign strategy, are essential for success.

4. Online Fundraising

The digital landscape has transformed individual giving. Platforms like JustGiving, GoFundMe, and social media channels such as Facebook and Instagram provide low-cost, high-impact opportunities for fundraising. Crowdfunding campaigns, virtual events, and mobile donations can reach broad audiences quickly.

Successful online fundraising requires a compelling campaign idea, digital marketing expertise, safe payment systems, and strong cybersecurity infrastructure. A donor database and engaging content—videos, infographics, personal stories—can significantly enhance campaign effectiveness.

5. Volunteer Engagement

Volunteers offer valuable human resources and can serve as ambassadors, fundraisers, or program assistants. They may organize events, solicit donations, provide pro bono services, or support outreach efforts.

Effective volunteer management involves defining clear roles, conducting background checks, providing orientation, and recognizing contributions. While involving volunteers is cost-effective, supervision and accountability mechanisms are crucial to ensure quality and reliability.

6. In-Kind Contributions

Non-monetary donations—from food, clothing, and educational supplies to office equipment and meeting spaces—can significantly reduce operational costs. To manage in-kind donations effectively, organizations need logistical support, transparency in usage, and well-maintained records of donor contributions.

Developing a wish list, identifying target donors, and having a clear outreach strategy are essential components. Local businesses, schools, and community members are often willing to contribute when approached appropriately.

7. Youth and School Engagement

Involving young people and educational institutions fosters long-term support and builds awareness of social causes. Although children may lack financial capacity, they can mobilize resources through creative activities such as recycling projects, talent shows, and sponsor runs.

To implement this strategy, organizations should build strong school partnerships, develop engaging content, and recruit volunteers to coordinate efforts. The key is to make children and youth understand the mission, thereby creating advocates for the future.

Best Practices in Individual Fundraising

Understanding donor motivations, telling compelling stories, maintaining transparency, acknowledging contributions, and using technology strategically are all essential practices. A diversified approach combining these methods can significantly enhance the reach and sustainability of fundraising efforts.

The article was written by Md. Humayun Kabir, an Independent Consultant, and Director, Creative Services Limited. Email: humayun@cslbd71.com