Resources library

Welcome to the Resource Alliance resources library. From here you can find relevant articles, videos and research papers. To access our other resources, please click on the links on the menu on the left-hand side.


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20 top corporate fundraising tips

Resource type: Article

31 May 2009

In this paper, the author shares their experiences of 11 years working as a corporate donor at Levi Strauss, and offers a step by step guide to finding and securing corporate support, with 20 easy… More Information…

28th IFC - Impromptu session on Fundraising, recession and the credit crunch

Resource type: Video

30 Nov 2006

An impromptu session at the 28th International Fundraising Congress in Holland attracted over 100 delegates wanting some reassurance about how the recession might affect their organisations and what,…

30th IFC Celebration session

Resource type: Video

In this popular ‘end of the conference presentation’ Tony shared his latest thinking on trends and developments. Sharp, original observations challenging the way you do things and, above all,…

30th IFC Celebration session - Brilliant Fundraising Innovation

Resource type: Video

So many ideas used to get lost in time, but SOFII has changed all that, providing great fundraising thinking, examples of creativity and a source to inspire new fundraising ideas.

30th IFC Celebration session - The Digital Revolution

Resource type: Video

Social media and every piece of mobile technology have all been born during the lifetime of the IFC. Have we really understood the power of digital communications?

30th IFC Celebration session - The Direct Marketing Revolution

Resource type: Video

In the fastest moving area of fundraising, have you moved fast enough? Direct marketing is now about audience insight, donor obsession, choosing the right channel mix, eCRM thinking and original strategies…

30th IFC Celebration session - The Donor is Queen

Resource type: Video

A true celebration of a remarkable person, the donor; what do we really know about them? This session brought delegates up to date on the best thinking to understand the donors and to develop lifelong…

30th IFC Opening Plenary session - Celebrating the Power of Fundraising

Resource type: Video

30 Nov 2010

This Opening Plenary had three main timelines, exploring the profound effects that modern fundraising has on Society. This session celebrated the role of the fundraiser and their personal ‘inner…

Access, Accountability and Advocacy

Resource type: Article

Boards serve as a link between the organisation and its larger community. In governing well, boards perform a mediating role that is rooted in three essential board duties: access, accountability, and… More Information…

Are you a future leader?

Resource type: eNewsletter article

28 Mar 2013

The Future Leaders Programme for Fundraisers will help non-profits reach their full potential At a time when job insecurity and budgetary pressures are increasing it is vital that organisations large and…

Breakthroughs in online fundraising: the emerging philanthropic web

Resource type: eNewsletter article

07 May 2010

We're all involved in philanthropy of one sort or another, but how can not-for-profits make better use of the philanthropic web? There's a plethora of advice out there, but Christine Egger is working hard…

Building donor loyalty

Resource type: eNewsletter article

14 Oct 2009

If donor retention is so important to nonprofits, why are we not doing more to keep them? Adrian Sargeant looks at how we can persuade our donors to stay with us We continue to lose our donors at…

Colin Habberton Fundraising Online 2012 video

Resource type: Video

22 Mar 2012

At this year's, Fundraising Online we are excited to have a host of inspiring speakers who will be bringing their expertise and experience to our online platform. Prior to the conference taking…

Compendium of the India NGO Awards 2009/11

Resource type: Promotional materials

Over the years, the Resource Alliance, through the India NGO Awards programme, has compiled and collated a large body of information on NGOs working across the country. This information provides an insight… More Information…

Could e-services be the way for your charity?

Resource type: eNewsletter article

14 Oct 2009

Charities often don't invest in new technology and online services because of the cost, but software as a service (SaaS) could be the answer. Patrick Nash explainsCharity websites are big business. Growing…

Credibility, Image and Identity: A Crisis in the NGO Sector in Kenya

Resource type: Article

This guide provides an interesting and informative history and oversight of the non-profit sector in Kenya. Focussing on the current context, Elkanah Odembo has identified several challenges… More Information…

Direct Mail Fundraising on Trial

Resource type: Article

In this guide, Mal Warwick condenses over 30 years of fundraising experience, to provide you with an introduction to Dorothy Donor and her donor journey with ‘Green Earth’. Mal provides oversight… More Information…

Donor Commitment - What is it, What Drives it and Why does it matter

Resource type: Article

This article details the results of a survey designed to:Define and measure donor commitmentDetermine what drives donor commitment, andTo identify the impact of commitment on perceived and actual donor… More Information…

Ethics in Fundraising

Resource type: Article

The real issue in fund-raising by non-profit organisations these days, is whether your organisation is responsible, trust worthy and accountable in seeking funds from others for the cause it is espousing.… More Information…

Finding sponsors for your event

Resource type: Article

In this useful guide, Usha takes you through 9 key steps to winning and keeping event sponsors. Full of easy to follow and useful advice, this practical guide is helpful to anyone trying to secure sponsorship… More Information…

First America, then the world

Resource type: eNewsletter article

14 Dec 2009

A non-profit, charitable organization located outside the United States with an interest in taking its fundraising global may want to look at using the US market as a first step. Why?Well, America’s…

Forum on Bridging Philanthropy and Development

Resource type: eNewsletter article

20 Jun 2012

We are very proud to be working again in partnership with the Rockefeller Foundation on a Forum on Bridging Philanthropy and Development in Africa and Asia. Following on from our work on the Bellagio Initiative…

Fundraising leaders: the 'glue that keeps organisations together'

Resource type: Article

27 Mar 2013

Insight and shared experiences were order of the day at the recent Resource Alliance Breakfast Briefing on effective leadership. It may have been a cold, grey, winters’ morning but the mood…

Fundraising Online 2012 attendee flash tour

Resource type: Video

01 Feb 2012

Fundraising Online is the world’s best 100% online digital fundraising conference, featuring the best in digital and online fundraising advice from expert speakers.Watch this short flash tour to…

Fundraising Online 2012 promo video

Resource type: Video

02 Dec 2011

Watch the Fundraising Online 2012 promo video to find out why it is indeed the world’s best 100% online digital fundraising conference, featuring the best in digital and online fundraising advice…

Fundraising Online 2012 sponsor flash tour

Resource type: Video

15 Feb 2012

Fundraising Online is the world’s best 100% online digital fundraising conference, featuring the best in digital and online fundraising advice from expert speakers.Watch this short flash tour to…

Fundraising Online 2013 promo video - now free to attend!

Resource type: Video

11 Jan 2013

Fundraising Online - now free to attend in 2013Make a date to join the world's best online and digital fundraising conference from 15-16 May 2013.The 2013 programme will be full of ideas and solutions…

Getting the most out of coaching and mentoring

Resource type: eNewsletter article

28 Mar 2013

Written by Geraldine Kilbride, Leadership Expert – London Business School and Programme Director of the Future Leaders Programme for Fundraisers What is coaching? There are many definitions of exactly…

Guidelines on creating an association of fundraisers

Resource type: Article

Why set up a national association of fundraisers?To  set and promote standards of ethical and professional fundraising practiceMonitor the implementation of standards and code of practicesBe able… More Information…

How to find funders

Resource type: Article

30 Nov 2003

The following document explains how to find information about potential funders and how to research and approach donors. There is a great deal of information available about funding organisations, the… More Information…

How to organise events to raise money

Resource type: Article

This guide provides comprehensive insight into the fundamentals to organising a successful event, whatever the scale or scope, so whether you are organising a quiz night or a gala dinner, this guide is… More Information…

How to write a fundraising proposal

Resource type: Article

01 Jan 2003

Writing a proposal is probably one of the most important skills in the fundraiser's repertoire. For many smaller organisations, the difference between a good and a bad proposal will be the difference between… More Information…

IFC 2011 Great Debate 1: What is fundraising success and how should we measure it?

Resource type: Video

As fundraisers we’re always talking about how successful our fundraising is. We talk about net income, ROI or perhaps our impact. But does everyone agree onwhat success really means and how…

IFC 2011 Great Debate 2: Who's in charge? The roles of HQ and national/chapter offices in large NGOs

Resource type: Video

The debate host, Geoffrey W. Peters, President and CEO of CDR Fundraising Group and international fundraiser with experience from more than 25 countries, explores solutions to…

IFC 2011 Great Debate 3: Are there any new ideas in fundraising?

Resource type: Video

Humankind has conquered the planet, tamed nature, and reached the stars. But in terms of fundraising has progress stood still?  Back in 1235, Eihen Dogen, a Zen Buddhist teacher looking to build a…

IFC 2011 Great Debate 4: Should we be raising funds for disasters in developed economies?

Resource type: Video

No one questions the legitimacy and necessity of fundraising when disasters hit a developing country like the Tsunami in Asia or the earthquake in Haiti. Millions of people from all over the world showed…

IFC 2011 Great Debate 5: Is the future Bright or Bleak?

Resource type: Video

01 Dec 2011

Everyone knows the importance of using ‘windows not mirrors’ to decide where to go next to protect, grow and dramatically change your fundraising. The speaker,Tony Elischer, specialises…

IFC 2011 Opening Plenary: Women in Philanthropy

Resource type: Video

01 Dec 2011

The conference started with a high energy, multi-media plenary which aimed to open the delegates' eyes to an important and largely untapped trend: the growing empowerment of women…

IFC 2011 promotional video

Resource type: Video

29 Nov 2011

IFC 2011 showcases the best fundraising skills on the planet. Watch the IFC 2011 promo video to find out why it was the best fundraising event to attend in 2011.

IFC 2012 North America Delegate Promo

Resource type: Video

13 Feb 2012

Ever wondered what its like to actually be at the IFC? Watch our promo video to hear what our North American delegates have to say about their experiences at the IFC and the reasons why you should…

IFC 2012 sponsor and exhibitor promo

Resource type: Video

09 Dec 2012

Get in front of the most important fundraising decision makers on the planet at the IFC 2012. The IFC is the world's leading conference for fundraisers and attracts some of the biggest, most progressive…

IFC 2013 sponsorship and exhibition prospectus

Resource type: Promotional materials

01 Feb 2013

The IFC is recognised and respected throughout the fundraising sector. Our brand is solid and trusted and we have a long and proven track record having been running for well over 30 years. Becoming our… More Information…

IFC Speaker Poll 2011

Resource type: Survey results

In July 2011 the Resource Alliance launched an online poll in which six IFC 2011 speakers, including Karen Osborne, Stephen George, Anne-Marie Grey, Fiona Duncan, AJ Leon and Nick… More Information…

India NGO Awards 2010

Resource type: Video

The India NGO Awards is a unique national competition that celebrates and rewards the best non-governmental and non-profit organisations by showcasing examples of best practice and successful resource…

INGOs and Philanthropy

Resource type: Research paper

During the Resource Alliance’s Annual International Fundraising Congress (the IFC), a number of representatives from leading INGOs met to discuss the future of philanthropy from the perspective of… More Information…

Insights from the commercial world on fundraising from Martin Paul and Louise Brockbank

Resource type: Video

03 Jul 2012

New to the International Fundraising Congress (IFC) programme this year are sessions offering brand new perspectives from outside the fundraising sector. These sessions will allow you to learn from leading…

Integrated E-Learning

Resource type: Article

For anyone thinking of desiging an online course, this guide is a must read!David Jameson is the E-learning Design Consultant for the CMPS (Government’s Centre for Management and Policy Studies)… More Information…

International Statement of Ethics in Fundraising

Resource type: Article

Fundraisers work in many varied fields, countries and circumstances, but they share several fundamental values and practices: they work to make the difference, help others and save what is valuable, in… More Information…

Jan Krol speaks about the IFC 2012 (Dutch)

Resource type: Video

Hear Jan Krol, Vice Chair of the Resource Alliance speak about the International Fundraising Congress (IFC) organised by the Resource AllianceTo find out more about the International Fundraising Congress…

Jonathon Grapsas Fundraising Online 2012 video

Resource type: Video

19 Apr 2012

At this year's Fundraising Online we are excited to have a host of inspiring speakers who will be bringing their expertise and experience to our online platform. Prior…

Leadership Q&A with Gill Raikes

Leadership Q&A with Gill Raikes

Resource type: eNewsletter article

28 Mar 2013

Gill Raikes is chief executive at Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals Charity. Prior to taking this position, she was director of fundraising at the National Trust.  1. What makes a good leader?…

Leading from the front

Resource type: eNewsletter article

20 May 2010

Neelam Makhijani took over as the Chief Executive of the Resource Alliance in April. How does she see her role at the helm of one of the most important organisations in global fundraising?“When…

Local Resource Mobilisation Through Media

Resource type: Article

In this guide, Ruta Mutakyahwa uses the case study of how media has been used to raise awareness of HIV in marginalised rural areas of Tanzania to sensitise viewers of the issues as well as promote… More Information…

Making the world a better place

Resource type: eNewsletter article

04 Nov 2009

New chief executive of the Resource Alliance Hans Wolters took up his new post this month. He talked to Penny Stephens about his priorities, his thoughts for the future of the organisation and how it can…

Marcelo Iniarra Fundraising Online 2012 video

Resource type: Video

19 Apr 2012

At this year's, Fundraising Online we are excited to have a host of inspiring speakers who will be bringing their expertise and experience to our online platform. Prior…

Michael Hoffman Fundraising Online 2012 video

Resource type: Video

09 Mar 2012

At this year's, Fundraising Online we are excited to have a host of inspiring speakers who will be bringing their expertise and experience to our online platform. Prior to the conference taking…

Mix it up for the best returns

Resource type: Article

Discussing the untapped potential of multi-channel direct marketing and fundraising, in this guide Daryl talks about the need for NGOs to integrate fundraising, campaigning and communication tools in order… More Information…

My big mistakes - and what I’ve learnt from them

Resource type: eNewsletter article

05 Aug 2009

We all make mistakes at some point in our lives, but hopefully we can learn from them, put it down to experience and remember not to do it again. The Resource Alliance's interim chief executive Lyndall…

Nokia Helping Hands

Resource type: Article

When non-profit organisations consider seeking support from the corporate sector they usually think money. Big profitable companies seem to be very rich, and indeed some do have significant corporate philanthropy… More Information…

Philanthrophy in Africa: A dialogue

Resource type: Research paper

This report documents conversations held during the Accra consultation meeting in September 2011. Participants from across the African philanthropic eco-system discussed the challenges to and opportunities… More Information…

Philanthropy in BRIC countries

Resource type: Research paper

This report shares the discussions held during the BRICS consultation meeting convened in Delhi in August 2011. Participants, from  Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa addressed the trends,… More Information…

Philanthropy in Middle Income Countries

Resource type: Research paper

The consultation addressed the trends, opportunities and challenges for the future of philanthropy in Middle Income Countries. Trends which can be observed are: growing local resource mobilisation; greater… More Information…

Philanthropy: Current Context

Resource type: Research paper

This report attempts to provide an overview of philanthropy and the ‘philanthropic eco-system’ that has evolved over the recent decade. Special focus of the report is on overseas philanthropy… More Information…

Promoting Transparency & Accountability

Resource type: Article

With a focus on the Philippine NGO sector, this guide talks about the challenges of regulation in the region, and introduces the Philippine Council for NGO Certification (PCNC), the role of this body in… More Information…

Raising Funds in Other Countries for Your Great Cause

Resource type: Article

In this guide Geoffrey Peters provides an insightful entry point to those thinking of developing fundraising activities in new markets. Dispelling ‘it won’t work here’ myths and commonly… More Information…

Risk and Philanthropy

Resource type: Research paper

26 Jun 2012

This report examines how risks in international development philanthropy are defined, assessed and managed. It reports the conclusions from a series of interviews conducted with development philanthropists,… More Information…

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SONI 2011 Global report

Resource type: Survey results

In association with Blackbaud, the Blackbaud Global SONI surveys are conducted to provide an overview of information that can help non-profits better benchmark their operations. These reports… More Information…

Spain: opportunity, growth and challenges for the third sector

Resource type: eNewsletter article

12 Feb 2010

Charity has never been central to Spanish life, so there's plenty of opportunity for the third sector to grow. Daryl Upsall explains the not-for-profit sector in Spain. Say to a Spanish person that…

Synchronizing online and offline fundraising for better results

Resource type: eNewsletter article

07 May 2010

Some of the best online fundraising campaigns have a strong offline component. Philip King explains how it strengthens the campaignI’m really looking forward to presenting at the upcoming IFC…

Tailored capacity development

Resource type: eNewsletter article

13 Mar 2012

Do you or your regional partners need some extra support to develop your fundraising capacity? The Resource Alliance offers a bespoke training and mentoring service to help non-profit organisations around…

Testing the water face-to-face

Resource type: eNewsletter article

14 Dec 2009

Face-to-face fundraising has been with us for more than a decade, but we’re still not testing our campaigns well enough. Owen Watkins explains how this could improve our understanding of F2F-acquired…

The Bellagio Initiative

Resource type: eNewsletter article

13 Dec 2011

We are very proud to be working in partnership with the Rockefeller Foundation and the Institute of Development Studies (IDS) on the Bellagio Initiative, a series of global consultations aimed at delivering…

The Cardinal Rules of Fundraising Letters

Resource type: Article

This paper looks at eight fundamental rules of writing successful appeal letters, and then tells you when it is OK to break them! An insightful and practical guide to producing your appeal letters. More Information…

The Dilemma of Middle Class Philanthropy

Resource type: Research paper

08 Oct 2012

As part of the Bellagio Initiative, a meeting was convened in Delhi with representatives from each of the BRIC countries to discuss what the future of philanthropy might look like for them. This report… More Information…

The emerging opportunities for smart fundraisers to use smart phones

Resource type: eNewsletter article

19 Apr 2010

Is that a phone you've got in your pocket, or  is it the next big thing in fundraising? Bryan Miller looks at how smart phones could be the way forwardI'm pretty sure that when Alexander Graham Bell…

The end of a few tough years - part 3

Resource type:

19 Apr 2010

Sean Triner ponders what we have actually leaned from our experiences in the worst recession in living memorySo the recession happened and if we believe what the pundits tell us, it's been and gone. Of…

The end of a few tough years - part two

Resource type:

08 Mar 2010

In the second of three articles, Sean Triner looks at how the recession affected fundraising in different parts of the world, and how each region has reactedHow bad was the recession when it came to charity…

The end of a few tough years - part two

Resource type: eNewsletter article

08 Mar 2010

In the second of three articles, Sean Triner looks at how the recession affected fundraising in different parts of the world, and how each region has reactedHow bad was the recession when it came to charity…

The end of a few tough years...or is it?

Resource type: eNewsletter article

12 Feb 2010

Fundraising has been through a hard time with the global economic recession, although some countries have barely noticed it. Sean Triner rounds up the global situation at the end of 2009 and muses on what…

The gift of time: how volunteering changed my perspective

Resource type: eNewsletter article

04 Nov 2009

Derek Humphries reports back from his time volunteering as an emergency project manager for Borneo Orangutan Survival, and offers six tips and six potential pitfalls for organisations and volunteers. We…

The IFC 2012 Opening Plenary video

Resource type: Video

22 Nov 2012

At the International Fundraising Congress (IFC) 2012, held from 16-19 October in the Netherlands, Bill Toliver presented an inspirational Opening Plenary to hundreds of fundraisers from around the world.'Leading…

The IFC 2012 sales brochure

Resource type: Promotional materials

12 Mar 2012

Now you can download the International Fundraising Congress (IFC) 2012 sales brochure, containing everything you need to know about the IFC 2012 programme, this year's tracks, the network and social programme…

The IFC 2013 promo video

Resource type: Video

04 Jan 2013

The International Fundraising Congress (IFC) is the world's showcase for excellence, innovation and inspiration in fundraising. We are excited to be back in the Netherlands from 15-18 October 2013. Watch…

The IFC 2013 sales brochure

The IFC 2013 sales brochure

Resource type: Promotional materials

24 Apr 2013

Download the IFC 2013 sales brochure Now you can download the International Fundraising Congress (IFC) 2013 sales brochure, containing everything you need to know about this year's programme, tracks,… More Information…

The IFC 2013 sponsor and exhibitor video

Resource type: Video

07 Jan 2013

Hear from leading suppliers to the sector why they get involved in the International Fundraising Congress (IFC) every year... Not able to view this video? Click here to view it.IFC 2013…

The Importance of Localizing Resource Mobilization

Resource type: Article

Finlay Craig explores the changing context in which we are fundraising, addressing the impact of the global village, the age of internet information and a 24 hour society, and discusses how the fundraiser… More Information…

The Resource Alliance 2010 Global Awards

Resource type: Video

The Resource Alliance 2010 Global Awards showcasing and rewarding expertise in fundraising.

The Resource Alliance general video

Resource type: Video

08 May 2012

The Resource Alliance is a UK registered charity, based in London. Our mission is to be the global network for fundraising, resource mobilisation and philanthropy. We build skills, knowledge and promote…

The Resource Alliance Global Awards for Fundraising 2011

Resource type: Video

04 Jan 2012

Organised and run by the Resource Alliance, the NGO Awards and Global Awards recognise and celebrate outstanding achievement in fundraising whilst setting aspirational standards and sharing best practice…

The role of digital for international charities

Resource type: eNewsletter article

03 Sep 2009

Digital media has been touted as the next big thing in fundraising, but what has it delivered and how can we use it to our advantage? Jason Potts explainsThe opportunities and the challenges Digital…

Tips on how to get started in local fundraising

Resource type: Article

So you’ve decided that your organisation ought to be developing its fundraising.Before you actually get started, there are a number of things you need to do. This document provides valuable information… More Information…

Uncovering 'pain' to secure corporate partners

Resource type: eNewsletter article

08 Mar 2010

Everyone thinks they have a unique proposal for potential corporate partners, but, says Mark Harrison, they’re sadly mistakenI was invited to attend a coffee chat yesterday with a national not-for-profit…

Using Giving Circles in diaspora giving

Resource type: eNewsletter article

03 Oct 2009

Increasingly non-profit organizations are seeking the expansion of their donor base by reaching out to diaspora who will support causes in theri country of origin or among their own ethnic group in their…

Using Mission, Vision and Values

Resource type: Article

To effectively communicate mission, vision and values you need to understand what each is, and why each is so important. This document describes each of them in more detail and asks pertinent questions… More Information…

Using NGO image to develop Corporate Alliances

Resource type: Article

To build a successful corporate alliance you need to build a strong partnership in which it is necessary to find mutual benefits for both the NGO and the corporate. In this guide Norma Galafassi, Director… More Information…

Watch a video about the Resource Alliance

Resource type: Video

05 Dec 2012

Watch this video to find out more about us and how we achieve our mission. Hear from staff and board members about how our comprehensive approach to capacity development equips NGOs around the world with…

Welcome to the Resource Alliance’s brand new eNewsletter

Resource type: eNewsletter article

12 Dec 2011

A very warm welcome from myself and the Resource Alliance team.This is the first edition of our re-designed Newsletter and, as well as keeping you in the picture about all our activities and plans, we…

Why should I give your charity £100 now?

Resource type: eNewsletter article

05 Aug 2009

Confident you can persuade me? Stephen Pidgeon thinks fundraisers could do with a bit more practice at coming up with a fundraising proposition that’s really going to persuade your donors to give The…

Why you should attend the IFC 2012

Resource type: Video

09 Dec 2012

The International Fundraising Congress (IFC) is the world's leading conference on fundraising. Established in 1981, it attracts around 1,000 participants from almost 60 countries, and is renowned for its…

Why you should attend the IFC 2013

Resource type: Video

07 Jan 2012

The International Fundraising Congress (IFC) is the world's showcase for excellence, innovation and inspiration in fundraising. We are excited to be back in the Netherlands from 15-18 October 2013. Watch…

Why your fundraisers are your biggest competitors

Resource type: eNewsletter article

07 May 2010

People are changing their giving habits, fast. So what's happening? Time to wise up to the new world, says Rik HaslamHere’s the thing.I am a charity. I’m not registered. I have thousands of…

Winning Supporters through an Engaging Mission

Resource type: Article

It is important to articulate a mission and vision that are appealing and that have the requisite tools to deliver the set of activities required to fulfil your mission. It is important to convince a potential… More Information…