2 Build trust and rapport

Once you have identified your target audience, you need to establish a relationship with them based on trust and rapport. This means showing genuine interest in them as individuals, not just as sources of funds. Listen to their stories, motivations, and feedback. Share your vision, impact, and challenges. Communicate regularly and consistently, using various channels and formats. Thank them for their support and recognition. Show them how their contributions make a difference.

3 Ask for referrals and introductions

One of the best ways to grow your fundraising network is to leverage the existing connections of your supporters. Ask them to refer or introduce you to other people who might be interested in your cause. This will help you expand your reach, credibility, and influence. Make it easy for them to do so by providing them with clear and compelling information, tools, and incentives. For example, you can create a referral program, a landing page, or a social media campaign.

4 Engage your network in different ways

To keep your fundraising network alive and active, you need to engage them in different ways throughout the year. Don't just ask for money, but also for other forms of support, such as time, skills, advice, or advocacy. Invite them to events, webinars, or workshops. Share stories, updates, or newsletters. Ask for their opinions, feedback, or testimonials. Create opportunities for them to interact with each other and with your team. Make them feel valued and involved.

5 Seek and offer mentorship

Another way to strengthen your fundraising network is to seek and offer mentorship. Mentorship is a mutually beneficial relationship that can help you learn, grow, and improve your fundraising skills and performance. You can seek mentors from within or outside your network, depending on your goals and needs. You can also offer mentorship to others who are new or struggling in fundraising, or who share your cause or vision. Mentorship can help you build trust, loyalty, and reputation.

6 Nurture long-term relationships

Finally, to build a fundraising network that lasts, you need to nurture long-term relationships with your supporters. This means going beyond transactions and treating them as partners and allies. Follow up with them after each donation or interaction. Provide them with regular and transparent reports on your progress and impact. Solicit their feedback and suggestions for improvement. Recognize and celebrate their achievements and milestones. Renew and upgrade your asks and offers. Show them that you care about them and their goals, not just your own.