The Inaugural EmpoweRanch Roundup: Fundraising for Nonprofit Organizations

Fundraising is a difficult yet critical function of nonprofit organizations. Special events make up a portion of fundraising strategy, and this project covers the basic components for throwing an inaugural event – one that the nonprofit organization has not done before but would like to continue to host regularly, typically annually – as it compares to my personal experience spearheading the Inaugural EmpoweRanch Roundup. When organizing any event, the first step is to define the purpose of the event by establishing a vision and goals. When establishing the purpose, consider what the funds from the event will directly pay for— the more specific you can get, the better. Donors want to see the impact they are making through their contributions, which will be clear if the purpose and projected profit allocation is communicated well. After establishing the time, date, and location, one should consider staff structure, volunteer management, organization, budgeting, print and digital marketing, social media marketing, risk management, site operations, food and beverage, accessibility, and sponsorships. Sponsorships become increasingly important depending on the budget for the event. After the execution of the event, it is important to evaluate and consider what improvements could be made if the event were to be reproduced. Evaluate if the event as a whole accomplished the purpose and goals established at the beginning of the process as well as how each component of the event and its production contributed to the purpose and goals.