Your Case for Support isn’t a one-time project; it’s a living document that should evolve with your organization. When you keep it fresh and aligned with your current impact and vision, it energizes supporters and strengthens their connection to your mission. Neglect it, and you risk donors losing interest. Just like any important relationship, regular care and attention make all the difference.
Natural Opportunities to Update Your Case
The good news is there are plenty of natural moments to revisit and refresh your Case for Support. Think about the moments of pending change or growth in your organization, and how your mission may be impacted.
Launching a Campaign or Feasibility Study: Review your Case to confirm it reflects your most current priorities, anticipated impact, and future direction. Update language so it speaks directly to campaign goals.
Anniversaries and Milestones: Add a section celebrating progress to date and outline what’s next. Use stories and data to show growth over time.
Program Development: Incorporate new programs or services into your Case. Adjust your messaging so supporters see how these developments strengthen your mission delivery.
Strategic Planning: Align your Case with your updated organizational priorities. Cross-check language against your new strategic plan to ensure consistency.
Leadership Transitions: Revise your Case to highlight your leadership’s vision and reassure stakeholders of ongoing commitment. Use this moment to reinforce excitement about the future.
Hidden Opportunities
Some opportunities may be subtle but no less important.
Calendar Events and Trends: Staying attuned to these broader conversations and activities can help you identify moments when your Case could benefit from fresh context or updated statistics.
Sector and Landscape Changes: Add context showing you understand shifts in your field. Update your Case with data, insights, or examples of how your organization is adapting.
Economic Shifts: Your Case should acknowledge major economic changes. Adjust your Case to explain how you’re responding to challenges or leveraging opportunities.
Recognition and Awards: Incorporate recent awards, accreditations, or media coverage to add credibility and momentum to your Case.
Updating your Case for Support doesn’t need to be daunting, make it part of your regular rhythm. Engage staff, board members, and trusted supporters to ensure it reflects what truly resonates. By keeping it fresh and responsive, your Case will continue to capture your mission’s power and inspire the support your work deserves.
What if you don’t have a Case for Support? Or do you need help updating your story? If either situation sounds familiar, consider engaging experienced consultants, like Inbloom, who specialize in nonprofit storytelling and case development. The right partnership can make the difference between a case that works and one that truly transforms your fundraising efforts. Contact — Inbloom Consulting
Submitted By: Kate Newsome | Inbloom Development Consultant | Connect w/ Kate on LinkedIn
