Impact-Based Philanthropy: Reporting Project Impact to Help Raise Dollars

Plus, as a new generation of philanthropists eyes places to put its wealth, the demands on nonprofit fundraisers are increasing to continue raising dollars amidst a tough fiscal climate.

This timely challenge (and the ongoing task of raising funds) can be addressed by the way development staff communicates with current and potential grantors. As today’s donors treat their charitable contributions like any other investments by bringing a business-oriented perspective to philanthropy, they expect nonprofit transparency, regular updates on the outcomes of their funding, and visible “returns” on their investments. Such expectations can only be met by reporting project-level impact — which is what donors, foundations, wealth advisors and government granting entities care about most.