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Fundraising / Development Specialist

Quick Facts

Median Salary$78,287
Most Common EducationBachelor's degree
Projected 10-Year Growth+11.55%
Assessment MatchTake the Assessment

What They Do

A Fundraising or Development Specialist raises funds and develops funding resources for an organization, program or non-profit institution. Manages special fundraising events, online donations, individual membership or corporate donations or grants. Builds awareness of the contributions and financial needs of organizations and programs.


Core Tasks:

  • Identify and build relationships with potential donors.
  • Secure commitments of participation or donation from individuals or corporate donors.
  • Write and send letters of thanks to donors.
  • Create or update donor databases.
  • Solicit cash or in-kind donations or sponsorships from individual, business, or government donors.
  • Develop strategies to encourage new or increased contributions.
  • Develop or implement fundraising activities, such as annual giving campaigns or direct mail programs.
  • Compile or develop materials to submit to granting or other funding organizations.
  • Conduct research to identify the goals, net worth, charitable donation history, or other data related to potential donors, potential investors, or general donor markets.
  • Develop fundraising activity plans that maximize participation or contributions and minimize costs.
  • Direct or supervise fundraising staff, including volunteer staff members.
  • Establish fundraising or participation goals for special events or specified time periods.
  • Monitor progress of fundraising drives.
  • Recruit sponsors, participants, or volunteers for fundraising events.
  • Contact corporate representatives, government officials, or community leaders to increase awareness of organizational causes, activities, or needs.
  • Attend community events, meetings, or conferences to promote organizational goals or solicit donations or sponsorships.
  • Write reports or prepare presentations to communicate fundraising program data.
  • Design or produce materials such as posters, Web sites, or newsletters to promote, market, or advertise fundraising events.
  • Explain the tax advantages of contributions to potential donors.
  • Write speeches, press releases, or other promotional materials to increase awareness of the causes, missions, or goals of organizations seeking funds.
  • Monitor budgets, expense reports, or other financial data for fundraising organizations.
  • Plan and direct special events for fundraising, such as silent auctions, dances, golf events, or walks.
  • Direct or coordinate Web-based fundraising activities, such as online auctions or donation Web sites.
  • Secure speakers for charitable events, community meetings, or conferences to increase awareness of charitable, nonprofit, or political causes.

What to expect as a Fundraising / Development Specialist

1Earn a Bachelor's degree

66% of people achieve this level of education.

2Gain skills and experience

See Fundraising / Development Specialist related courses on Tallo

3Land a job

1252 openings for Fundraising / Development Specialists

Career Progression

in United States (Nation)

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