Paul Baird Fundraising Consultant
What does it cost?
There is no single, fixed rate for our work, rather the cost depends on the type of the work, the expertise/resources required, and other factors including travel, etc.
Once we can see the scale of the project, we will agree the number of days work needed. 'A Day' is eight working hours which may be spread over several calendar days as appropriate, and excludes travel time etc. We make effective use of emails, phone and Skype to keep costs down and minimise impact on your time and budget. All costs will be agreed in writing before the work begins and there will be no surprise extras.
In addition to the contracted work, all clients receive a proportionate period of additional telephone/email consultancy support, free of charge, after the completion of the work and this is also agreed at the start of the project.
Remember: if you need support quickly by phone or email, you can arrange that now - see the "Get Support Now" page.
Research and bid writing
From our well-equipped office, we can offer a comprehensive suite of research and communication tools, and a wealth of experience to support your quest for potential funding.
Should you require support for your fundraiser/ fundraising team in these activities, we can work from your office or use phone/email/skype to involve them actively in and mentor them through the process.
Once the research is complete, you will receive a detailed report containing our recommendations and also summarising application processes, time-scales, potential funds available, etc. The report will be accompanied by an executive summary and a spreadsheet of information and details.
Strategic planning and implementation
You fundraising strategy must be aligned with and serve your organisational business plan/ case for support/ Statement of Need. Experience shows that the most effective approach is in five stages:
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We will work with you to gain a clear understanding of your services, structures, established systems and aspirations: this will allow us to understand your long-term funding needs and begin the process of planning.
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Research and analysis can sometimes be simply office-based work but, if agreed, may also undertake stakeholder interviews or focus groups.
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The developmental stage often involves the exchange of written papers for consideration and response by your trustees, managers, operations teams and volunteers but can also be enhanced through meetings and workshops.
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An effective Fundraising Strategy is not a document which you file, but an identified and agreed methodology which all your teams understand and support. this stage will be about implementation - how you communicate with your people to ensure it will work.
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Presentation of the final report and organisational strategy document plus details of any further action or support recommended.
Mentoring, Training, workshops, and facilitation of meetings
A range of activities can be made available to support the development of individuals or teams, including staff/volunteers from your partner organisations.
Facilitating focus groups with supporters can be a useful way of gaining specific insights into the potential of fundraising plans or proposals about new service developments
Different topics and styles of training/ mentoring may be appropriate for e.g. trustees, management, volunteers and supporters but, whatever your need, the event will be individually tailored so that it is entirely fitted to your organisation's goals and ethos, and appropriate to the experience of the attendees.
Usually the charity organises the venue, catering, and identifies the delegates and we arrange the event itself. However it is possible for us to arrange the whole day if required.