Nonprofit Fundraising Fundamentals

Nonprofit Fundraising Fundamentals is a comprehensive introductory course designed to equip learners with the essential knowledge and practical skills needed to plan, implement, and sustain effective fundraising programs for nonprofit organizations. The course explores how fundraising aligns with an organization’s mission, values, and overall operations while emphasizing ethical and donor-centered practices.
Participants will gain a clear understanding of the nonprofit fundraising landscape, including the various funding sources such as individual donors, foundations, corporations, and government agencies. The course highlights key distinctions between restricted and unrestricted funds, as well as different fundraising approaches including annual giving, capital campaigns, and planned giving.
Learners will explore strategies for building and maintaining a strong donor base through research, segmentation, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship. The course also covers both individual and institutional fundraising methods, including major gifts, digital fundraising, grants, corporate partnerships, and public funding opportunities.
Special attention is given to fundraising events, campaigns, and the use of online tools such as crowdfunding and peer-to-peer fundraising. In addition, the course emphasizes the importance of building a strong fundraising culture by engaging board members, staff, and volunteers in shared responsibility and accountability.
By the end of the course, participants will be prepared to apply best practices, address common fundraising challenges, and take actionable steps toward strengthening their organization’s fundraising capacity while fostering long-term donor relationships.