What is the difference between an organization that has a culture of fundraising and one that pursues a culture of philanthropy? In a culture of fundraising, reaching the goal is the singular objective and donors are simply a means to solve a problem. The organization needs money. Donors have money. Ask for a gift (typically the bigger, the better). This transactional approach can lead donors to wonder: “does the organization care about me, or only my money?”

Fundraising can feel more like an art than a science — but it shouldn’t be a mystery. Learn how to use data-driven methodologies that will push you forward.

In this second article of a two-part series about finding and keeping your donors, we focus on the challenging—but ultimately rewarding—work of donor acquisition. The