Over the last few years, there’s been a huge growth in commercial subscription box schemes. Most work in the same way. For a monthly payment you get a box of sample products that you might like – make-up, artistic prints, coffees, sweets, beers, clothes, snacks,…

A few weeks ago, I was reading BARB’s 2018’s Viewing Report and saw a mention of Harold Pollack, a professor at the University of Chicago. Back in 2013 he shared his views on personal finance advice, saying: “[The best personal finance advice] can fit on…

For much of the past decade, UK fundraisers have worked in a market that has struggled to grow. Latest figures actually indicate a decline in income. Stagnation means one thing – it is impossible for all charities to raise more money. Many are actually spending…

Today is World Book Day. Which is rather appropriate timing to ask you for some book related help. I recently met with someone who has a very large library of fundraising books that are not being used. It is packed full of volumes of great…

One of the things that has become apparent in Bluefrog’s ongoing qualitative research is a growing sense of negativity surrounding the issue of monthly gifts – particularly those paid by direct debits. This appears to be more than a general gripe. Take a look at…

This slide appeared in my recent presentation at the AFP international fundraising conference on Bluefrog’s research into the American mid-level donor. It’s taken on a life of its own as it’s bounced round the internet so I thought I would share it here too. It…

I’ve now completed the analysis of Bluefrog Fundraising’s qualitative research into the opinions of donors regarding the safeguarding stories that hit the headlines in February. The process of presenting the findings to clients and sector bodies has begun and we will be sharing them more widely…

  Earlier this year I wrote one of my longest ever opinion pieces on fundraising. It’s on the use and misuse of emotion and was written for the Commission on the Donor Experience. You can find the full-length version on SOFII by clicking here. But…

Here’s my prediction for charity brands over the next few years. They will go back to their roots. They will revert to their old logos and names. The ones they used in the 60s, 70s and 80s. They might be slightly tweaked, refreshed or produced…