The Framework

Fractional Fundraising

Are you stuck in a cycle of hiring entry-level fundraisers only to have them leave? Especially in small to mid-sized nonprofits, fundraising staff turnover is high - about every 18 months. Have you decided to go without a fundraiser? Perhaps you’re hoping to scale, but are stuck with tight budget. These are the scenarios in which a fractional fundraiser like me can step in.

Fractional fundraisers…

Deliver a plan/product and lead day-to-day implementation.
Are generalists - meaning they can direct most or all aspects of an organization’s fundraising.
Are experienced, efficient, and require little oversight.
Can lead staff, offer board training, and assist with other executive-level strategy.
Typically work with organizations for a minimum of 12-18 months.

With Stewardshift, you’ll get the experience and execution of a senior-level leader without the financial commitment of hiring a W2 entry-level fundraiser. The cherry on top? You’ll spend much less time training a new hire and more time on your mission.

So what are you waiting for?

More Info and FAQ’s

How are you different than other consultants?

Most consultants focus on short-term projects — delivering a single product or plan, like a website, video, or feasibility study. Stewardshift goes further into the weeds to help scale your organization’s fundraising systems. That means I will create the plan alongside you and lead the day-to-day implementation. Instead of a short term project, I’ll be with you for at least 12-18 months.

What do you REALLY spend your time doing?

Short answer? Whatever is needed to grow your sustainability!

Long answer:

Work with you to create a plan to keep what’s working, tweak what has potential, and get rid of what isn’t.
Analyze your database, giving history, online media, stewardship patterns, board/staff engagement, community events, and anything else that impacts your bottom line.
Implement and revise that plan, dialing it in to help your supporters feel connected to the mission.
Typical work includes:
- Planning campaigns and database clean up.
- Segmenting newsletter audiences and telling great stories.
- Engaging supporters through calls/emails/tours/events.
- Improving recurring giving and writing grants.
- Implementing multi-year, pledge, or planned giving strategy.

What happens when you leave?

Fundraising shouldn’t fall apart when a staff member moves on. Stewardshift builds for sustainability— then helps you hire and train the right person to carry it forward. I stay long enough to make sure they’re confident and equipped to succeed without me.

If you’re stretched thin and know fundraising needs more attention, let’s talk.

I’m concerned about you building relationships as a fractional fundraiser.

Your donors likely interact with your organization in different ways. Stewardshift focuses on engaging moderate and entry-level donors. They may not have a strong personal connection yet but have real potential to grow their support. As those relationships grow, I’ll make sure they are connected to the organization itself and not to me. I can also help coach staff on engaging with your high-level donors (usually top 10-20%).

How much do you charge?

Stewardshift is a cost-effective alternative to hiring a full-time, in-house fundraiser. Pricing depends on the scope of work, and services are designed for nonprofits looking to invest in fundraising infrastructure. If you’re on your way towards hiring an in-house role, but aren’t quite ready, Stewardshift offers a bridge - giving you the support you need without the financial or training overhead of a full-time hire.