Research Services

Successful fundraising begins with accurate, timely, and relevant information. Prospect research identifies, analyzes, and recommends avenues of financial support so that the fundraising goals of a non-profit organization can be realized. It is a technique used by fundraisers, development teams, and non-profit organizations to learn more about their donors and prospective donors – their personal backgrounds, giving histories, wealth indicators, and philanthropic motivations – and to evaluate a prospect’s ability to give (capacity) and warmth (affinity) toward an organization.

The role of research is essential at each stage of the development process: identification, discovery, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship. The goal of research is to provide concise, actionable information that can identify and prioritize prospects, efficiently direct the efforts of fundraisers, support data-driven decisions, and help inform solicitation and marketing strategies.

Our services include:

• Prospect research profiles

• Prospect pipeline development

• Identification of campaign funding sources

• Identification of grant sources

• Grant writing

• Analysis of existing donors to identify those with the capacity to elevate their giving

• Competitive reviews/Environmental Scans

• Development of prospect management plans and processes

• Vetting of board and volunteer prospects

• In-depth wealth analysis

• Identification of corporate prospects for marketing sponsorships and event underwriting

• Research training and workshops

• Supplemental research work during busy times

• Temporary support during staff absences