What it is
A fundraising consultant is someone you bring in, usually on a project or ongoing basis, to help you raise money for a specific purpose. They are not an employee, and they do not replace your board, volunteers or leadership. They offer outside experience, structure and extra hands.
The work can include setting a goal, shaping a story people connect with, building a donor list, planning outreach by email, social media or events, and thanking supporters afterward. Some consultants focus on strategy, while others also handle day-to-day outreach.
Consultants come with different backgrounds and strengths. Some know civic and advocacy groups well, others specialize in community events such as charity shoots, and others focus on veterans and first-responder causes. Fit matters more than a title.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Many groups have long raised money through word of mouth, membership drives, mailed appeals, banquets and local events. These methods build real relationships and are still widely used, especially in tight-knit communities.
Over time, groups added email, social media and online giving to reach more people. An online fundraising platform lets supporters give from a phone or computer, which can make it easier for friends and family far away to take part.
Some groups manage everything with volunteers, while others hire help for specific tasks like writing appeals, planning an event or running a campaign. Each approach has trade-offs in time, cost and control, and none is right for everyone.
How the right organizer may help
The right fundraising consultant may help you get clear on what you are raising money for, who is likely to care, and how to ask in a way that feels honest and respectful. They may also help you build a simple calendar so outreach does not depend on last-minute energy.
A first conversation is usually a chance to talk through your cause, your timeline, your current supporters and what help you want. Good questions to ask include: What experience do you have with groups like mine? What exactly would you do, and what would stay with us? How do we communicate and review progress? How do you handle the rules that apply in our state?
It also helps to ask how they would use an online fundraising platform alongside email, events and personal outreach. On this platform, the terms are a 6% platform fee per donation, payouts on the 15th for the prior calendar month, and plans of Free, Grow at $99 per month, or Done-for-you outreach at $1,500 per month. Compare any consultant's costs against what you can reasonably support, and ask for scope and terms in writing.
The bigger picture
Raising money for a cause you care about can feel meaningful, but it can also be tiring. Worrying about goals, deadlines and asking friends for support can weigh on your time, your finances and your peace of mind. Getting organized, or sharing the load with someone experienced, may ease some of that pressure.
Look after yourself and your volunteers along the way. Set realistic expectations, take breaks and celebrate small wins. If you are a provider or practitioner raising money for a cause, Providers.plus may be a helpful place to explore related resources.
No single approach is better than another. Some people feel most at ease doing everything themselves, while others value a partner to lean on.
Keep in mind
- 2A Support is an independent directory and educational resource, not a professional advisor, and nothing here is legal, tax or financial advice.
- Donations are not automatically tax-deductible. Only gifts to IRS-registered charities may be, so use the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search to check an organization's status and talk with a qualified professional.
- Charitable-solicitation registration, raffle and gaming rules, and legal-defense-fund rules vary by state, so check your state's rules and consult a qualified professional before you start.
- Any help an organizer provides is a possibility, not a promise or guarantee of results, and fundraising outcomes depend on many factors.
Not sure where to start? Answer a few gentle questions and choose who you’d like to hear from.
Frequently asked questions
What does a fundraising consultant do?
A fundraising consultant helps a group plan, message and carry out its efforts to raise money. This may include setting goals, shaping your story, planning outreach and events, and following up with supporters. The exact scope depends on what you agree on together.
Do I need a fundraising consultant for a small group?
Not necessarily. Many small groups raise money well with volunteers and simple tools. A consultant may be worth considering if you lack time, want fresh ideas or are planning a larger campaign or event.
How do I choose a fundraising consultant?
Start by looking for experience with causes like yours, such as advocacy, community events or veterans and first-responder efforts. Ask what they would do, how you would communicate, how they handle state rules, and what the costs and terms are in writing. Speaking with more than one person can help you compare.
How much does a fundraising consultant cost?
Costs vary by consultant and by the scope of work, so ask for a clear written proposal. On this platform, the terms are a 6% platform fee per donation, with plans of Free, Grow at $99 per month, or Done-for-you outreach at $1,500 per month. Payouts are made on the 15th for the prior calendar month.
Can I use an online fundraising platform with a consultant?
Yes, many groups pair a consultant with an online fundraising platform so supporters can give easily online. A consultant may help you plan how to share your page through email, social media and events. Be sure your plan follows your state's rules.
Are donations to my fundraiser tax-deductible?
Not automatically. Only gifts to IRS-registered charities may be tax-deductible, and many fundraisers are not charities. Use the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search to check an organization's status and ask a qualified tax professional about your situation.
Educational resource. 2A Support shares general information and connects people with independent organizers. It is not professional advice. Talk with a qualified professional about your own situation.