Where is the value in subscription box fundraising?
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 guide to fundraising on the back of a postcard
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...
How do donors manage their philanthropic budgets?
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...
What is your favourite fundraising book?
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...
We have reached peak regular giving. So what next?
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...
She is not your donor. You are one of her charities.
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...
The Fundraising Ecosystem
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...
How to avoid the misuse of emotion in fundraising
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...
Heritage branding. A great opportunity for charities.
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...
Change the future of fundraising by sharing your best practice
I’m currently working with Ken Burnett who has asked me to identify the best global fundraising practice to be featured in the final report of the Commission on the Donor Experience. Our goal is to demonstrate what can be achieved over the long-term by focusing...
The Essentials
Crack the Code to Regular Giving: Insights, Strategies, and a Special Giveaway!
‘Tis Halloween. Keep to the light and beware the Four Fundraisers of the Apocalypse!
Why do people give? The Donor Participation Project with Louis Diez.
A guide to fundraising on the back of a postcard
What does the latest research tell us about the state of fundraising?