12 Reasons Why Your Fundraiser Flopped

The Catholic School Leaders Podcast

May 14 2024 • 33 mins

In this episode, John Mihalyo discusses effective strategies for Catholic school leaders to analyze and improve their advancement, development, and fundraising efforts.

Drawing from his experience and expertise, John highlights common pitfalls in setting goals that are either too high or too low and emphasizes the importance of realistic planning, communication, sponsorship, budgeting, and offering desirable items or experiences at fundraising events.

He also stresses the significance of timing, venue selection, and the power of saying 'thank you' to sponsors and donors.

Throughout the episode, John offers practical advice on creating a culture of giving and forging strong community partnerships to support Catholic education worldwide.

0:00 17 Why did the fundraiser flop?
02:24 1 Aimed too High
03:57 2 Aimed too Low
05:01 3 Needed more time to prepare
07:11 4 More communication was needed
08:30 5 Sponsorships
10:47 6 Clearly Identify Where Proceeds are Going
13:11 7 Timing
17:09 8 Did You Have What People Wanted?
20:24 9 The Event was Boring
21:18 10 The Venue
23:44 11 Failing to Recognize Donors
25:32 12 Friendsraising vs. Fundraising
28:08 13 Budgeting
29:36 Bonus: Post-Mortem