This July, we’re answering burning questions we hear from many clients and non-profit colleagues across the country. Chances are, the question might be burning in our readers’ minds, as well.
As non-profit leaders plan for a potential capital project and campaign, they look to us for a feasibility study. We are often asked:
What do we need to have ready before we can start a Feasibility Study? Do we need architect drawings, site location, signed agreements with collaborative partners, campaign chair recruited?
While it is important to have done your research and have a clear vision before you sit down for your first feasibility interview, none of those elements above are necessary. We often remind our clients that we are “sharing not selling” during the interviews and we should spend most of our time listening to what the person on the other side of the table is telling us about their interests and involvement.
Executed correctly, the study should reveal the amount of support available and a recommended dollar goal. But there are other important reasons to do a feasibility study:
So what do you need before you start your capital feasibility study?
If you have renderings it’s okay to share them during the interviews, but we don’t want to give the impression this is a done-deal. We are there to seek advice and input from community leaders. They are helpful, but not necessary.
Yes, there is a lot of legwork to be done before you sit down for your first interview, but you don’t need to have every problem solved and detail planned.
Do you have a burning question you’d like us to answer? Leave a comment below or email us {info at donorbydesign dot com}.