Researching potential donors for the zoo
Researching and analysing prospective supporters for your zoo, botanic garden, aquarium or similar is clearly important. ‘People research’ , one to one discussions with your board members, networking, etc., is the place to start. Use of the internet and published sources must follow. Some questions to ask yourself:
- In general what kind of person is likely to support your project?
- What is the link of that person to your organisation or cause?
- How can you make a (better) link , if need be?
- What is their ability to give?
- What aspect of your work is likely to most appeal?
- What activity would help the individual to understand more about your project, the zoo and its people and to gradually feel part of the organisation and its mission?
- If an approach is ever to be made, when, what for and by whom?
Vanessa Hack’s book ‘International Prospect Research’ is a fascinating source of ideas on researching potential individual suppoters. See this link: http://www.fundraising.co.uk/books/browse/9
I will post again on this subject if asked
John
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