Fundraising 101: Understanding the Fundamentals

Fundraising 101: Understanding the Fundamentals introduces SCORE chapters to the essential principles of fundraising and provides a step-by-step framework for building a sustainable development program. At its core, fundraising is about relationship-building—connecting people and organizations with SCORE’s mission of supporting small businesses. This guide walks chapters through the full fundraising cycle, from crafting a compelling case for support to identifying prospects, cultivating relationships, making the ask, and stewarding donors for long-term partnerships. By following these steps, chapters can move from one-time asks to a long-term, diversified fundraising program that strengthens their local impact and ensures sustainability. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to expand your development efforts, this guide is designed to make fundraising approachable, practical, and effective.

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