In the competitive landscape of fundraising, independent schools face unique challenges in cultivating relationships with donors and establishing themselves as credible institutions worth investing in. To navigate these complexities, schools can benefit greatly from an Advancement Accelerator—an in-depth review of their fundraising and advancement strategies, policies, and processes. This integrative process can help school leaders to develop a strategy that intentionally and strategically engages stakeholders along different touch points to build and leverage credibility in order to maximize future fundraising opportunities.
Understanding the Distinction: Fundraising and Advancement
All fundraising is advancement, but not all advancement is fundraising. While fundraising and advancement activities are related, they encompass different aspects of an organization’s reputation and financial sustainability. Fundraising focuses on securing financial contributions, while advancement takes a broader perspective, emphasizing the credibility and overall perception of the institution among a broad base of stakeholders. By conducting an Advancement Accelerator that dovetails fundraising with other advancement activities, schools can align their fundraising efforts with a comprehensive strategy that encompasses credibility-building, public relations, and donor engagement.
Uncovering Unknown Opportunities: An Integrative Process
An essential aspect of an Advancement Accelerator is its ability to shed light on previously unnoticed opportunities for fundraising growth. The Accelerator process helps identify any gaps in communication, public relations, and engagement strategies, preventing schools from inadvertently sacrificing potential funding sources. By conducting a thorough review of all touchpoints along the engagement continuum—from pre-enrollment activities to alumni engagement—schools can uncover untapped fundraising potential and bridge any existing gaps.
Collaborating through an Advancement Accelerator
Convergent’s team works closely with existing advancement and communications team members to complete the Advancement Accelerator. We review and assess the school’s activities, strategies, and connections along the engagement continuum. By analyzing current practices, identifying areas of strength, and addressing gaps, we can make recommendations and establish action items for the creation of an integrated approach. With a yearlong engagement, Convergent is on hand to coordinate the implementation of enhanced communication strategies and to ensure that there is a seamless transition between credibility-building initiatives and fundraising efforts.
Discover How an Advancement Accelerator Can Help Your School Achieve Its Goals
Schedule a meeting with Convergent to discuss our process and how an Advancement Accelerator can be the first step in achieving greater engagement and fundraising success.
