All successful major gift fundraising begins with a compelling case for support, sometimes called the case statement, the case for giving, or simply “the case.”
Answering 5 questions about your case will strengthen its internal logic and persuasive power:
1. Have we clearly stated the need?
(Not our organization’s need, but the need of those we serve)
2. Have we summarized our program in a nutshell?
(And related it to the need we just described)
3. Have we been persuasive that we are the logical organization to be operating this program?
(Donors like to compare organizations before selecting their logical choice)
4. Have we summarized clearly what the program or project will cost?
(Donors will often determine their gift level as a percentage of the total goal)
5. Did we paint a compelling picture of what success will mean?
(Suppose we get all the funds we need and more- who will benefit and how?)
One you answer these questions you are ready to begin writing. If you have never written a case statement before you may want to find some examples to follow. I also recommend finding someone to help you who has experience writing case statements. This could be a board member, development colleague or a fundraising consultant.