Timing of Effective Donor Outreach

Does it matter “when” you reach out to donors to establish a relationship or share an idea?

Yes. Timing matters.

So when “is” the right time?

1. This will depend on the donor. With just a bit of research you can learn about the donor’s funding cycles and when grant reviews take place, funding is allocated etc.

2. As a very general rule, the early part of the year, late Spring and early Fall are the most engaged periods to get in front of a donor, really regardless of type.

3. End of year is when most donor allocations have been made. Save your outreach for January but realize it will take some effort given how inundated they may be. Our donor outreach blueprint has some good suggestions about how to get noticed and the cadence with which to reach out, as well ad what to say exactly.

4. By creating a schedule and normalized flow of USEFUL insights for donors, staying in front of them regularly is really the best approach to take.

Wondering how to engage donors that don't accept unsolicited proposals? Try our 4-step guide!