As the holiday season approaches, we send warm wishes to you and your loved ones for joy, love, and togetherness during this special time. For nonprofits, the close of the year brings both reflection and opportunity. With so much happening, it’s easy to feel like there’s not enough time left to make an impact—but don’t worry, it’s not too late! In fact, the final days of the year can be some of the most critical for fundraising. Did you know that 12% of all giving happens in the last three days of the year, and 31% of all donations are made in December? With the right strategies, your nonprofit can make the most of this important time. Here are some last-minute tips to help boost your year-end fundraising efforts and ensure a strong finish.
5 Last-Minute Tips for Year-End Fundraising
- Reach out to major gift donors: Send a personalized letter recapping the organization’s accomplishments over the year, emphasizing how the donors’ support made those achievements possible. If a donor funded a specific project or program, provide details on the year-end results. Share plans for the upcoming year and how their continued support can help.
- Leverage your digital channels: Make the most of your website, email, and social media platforms to engage donors quickly. Send out a compelling email appeal that highlights the urgent need for donations before year-end. Use social media to share impactful stories and encourage followers to donate directly through your website. Consider creating a countdown to the year’s end, reminding your audience that their gift can still make a big difference.
- Highlight the increased deduction limit: Congress temporarily increased the limit on charitable deductions from 60% to 100% of adjusted gross income, but this benefit is set to expire soon for donors who itemize. If there’s a CPA on the Board, consider asking them to send a friendly reminder about this opportunity while spotlighting the nonprofit as a community service.
- Run a LYBNT report (Last Year But Not This Year): Send targeted messages to donors who gave last year but haven’t donated this year. If phone numbers are available, consider calling to thank them for their past support, ask how the organization can improve, and inquire if there’s a reason they haven’t given yet. Some donors simply forget, but understanding their concerns may help rebuild relationships.
- Engage Board members: Have reflective conversations with Board members about why they give. Ask what excites them most about serving on the Board and what they’re looking forward to accomplishing in the coming year. See if any Board members are willing to make an additional year-end gift to help achieve those future goals.
No matter where your nonprofit stands with year-end fundraising, remember that it’s never too late to make a difference. Whether it’s reaching out to key donors, leveraging the holiday spirit, or simply connecting with your Board, each small effort can have a big impact. Pick one strategy, take action, and trust that your dedication to your mission will resonate with those who support you. As you close out this year, know that every step forward brings your organization closer to achieving its goals. Together, you can finish the year strong and set the stage for even greater success in the year ahead.
Need help finalizing your year-end fundraising strategy? Contact our team today for personalized support and make this year’s campaign your most successful yet!
