A Planning and Feasibility Study is an essential element of a major capital campaign. Evaluating the readiness of an organization, the viable scope of a proposed campaign and a range of dollars to be raised will help an organization determine the best course for success. There are twelve different areas that are tested in a study, such as an organization’s image, impact of service, importance of organization, urgency of capital improvements, leadership development, potential donations and more. The information is collected by way of confidential face-to-face interviews, mail-out surveys and, in some cases, focus groups. The report is a comprehensive written document with full statistical analysis, narrative rationale, direct quotes (without attribution) recommendations with an action plan and timetable for campaign preparation and implementation.
A comprehensive Planning and Feasibility Study should be the first step taken before entering into a major fundraising program. Through the Study, key community leaders are brought into the initial planning process. Study results provide vital information about the organization’s staff, facility, present services and plans for the future. A Planning and Feasibility study takes the guess work out of planning for a major funding program by answering questions about the strength of the case statement and the amount of support that can be anticipated. The Study reveals extensive marketing data upon which to base short and long-range plans.
The Planning and Feasibility Study will Determine:
- The amount of money that could be raised within the next five years.
- Your plan’s strengths and weaknesses.
- The level of interest and willingness of key leaders to support your plan.
- Public perception of your programs, services and future plans.
- Sources of immediate and future major gifts for your program.
- Possible obstacles you may encounter in a major fund raising program.
- How long it will take to raise the initial amount and when to begin.
- How the current political and economic climate would affect a fund raising program.
- Recommendations for implementing your plans for an extensive public awareness program, major fund raising program, or an ongoing resource development program.