Researching New Clients for a Fundraising Consultant
Project scope
Categories
Market research Lead generation Public relations Market expansion Sales strategySkills
advocacy customer acquisition management fund development sales prospecting prioritization research decision making mental health spreadsheets leadershipThe goal of this project is to support Advocate Fundraising’s client acquisition strategy by researching and identifying nonprofit and values-aligned organizations that are a strong fit for our fundraising services. Advocate Fundraising works with small to mid-sized nonprofits across Canada, and we are seeking to expand our client base in a strategic, relationship-based way.
Learners will conduct research to locate and assess potential clients, focusing on mission alignment, organization size, funding activity, and leadership accessibility. This project will contribute directly to business growth by equipping us with a clear, actionable list of leads and warm connection strategies.
Project Outcomes and Deliverables
Learners will be expected to complete the following tasks and deliverables to achieve the project goal:
1. Ideal Client Research & Criteria Review
- Analyze Advocate Fundraising’s services and existing client types
- Use this analysis to define what makes an organization a strong prospect (sector, location, org size, fundraising readiness)
2. Lead Identification
- Research and compile 50–100 nonprofit organizations that fit the ideal client profile
- Include details such as organization name, website, sector/focus area, location, and funding history (if available)
3. Decision-Maker Contact Collection
- Find contact details for Executive Directors, CEOs, Fund Development staff, or other relevant decision-makers
- Provide email addresses or LinkedIn profiles, and note if they have public grant/funding information on their website
4. Lead Spreadsheet with Prioritization
- Organize all findings in a sortable Google Sheet
- Include an “alignment score” or priority column based on mission fit, funding activity, and contact accessibility
- Tag leads by category (e.g., mental health, youth, arts, etc.)
5. Outreach Strategy Suggestions (Optional)
- Draft 2–3 short sample outreach messages or LinkedIn connection scripts
- Highlight any shared interests, values, or service fit that AF could reference in messaging
6. Final Summary Report
- Write a 1–2 page summary outlining key findings
- Highlight the top 10–15 most promising leads
- Briefly explain how leads were identified and ranked
Providing specialized, in-depth knowledge and general industry insights for a comprehensive understanding.
Sharing knowledge in specific technical skills, techniques, methodologies required for the project.
Direct involvement in project tasks, offering guidance, and demonstrating techniques.
Providing access to necessary tools, software, and resources required for project completion.
Scheduled check-ins to discuss progress, address challenges, and provide feedback.
About the company
Advocate Fundraising is a dedicated fundraising consultancy that empowers non-profits, charities, and small businesses through tailored strategies and comprehensive support. With nearly 17 years of industry experience, Advocate Fundraising specializes in grant writing, fund development planning, and additional fundraising services designed to meet the unique needs of each client. By employing innovative approaches and ethical practices, Advocate Fundraising helps organizations secure funding and achieve sustainable financial success, ultimately enabling them to create a lasting impact in their communities. Through a commitment to inclusion, integrity, and community advocacy, Advocate Fundraising serves as a trusted partner in navigating the complexities of fundraising, ensuring that clients can focus on their missions while Advocate Fundraising advocates for their financial well-being.