Fractional Fundraising: The Secret Weapon Your Nonprofit Didn’t Know It Needed
Let’s set the scene.
You’ve got big fundraising goals and an even bigger to-do list. You know you need to bring in more donors, land those major gifts, and keep revenue flowing—but here’s the thing: fundraising isn’t a “set it and forget it” kind of deal.
Whether you have a stellar development team or fundraising is more of an all-hands-on-deck situation, sometimes, you just need more support. And that’s where fractional fundraising consultants come in.
Now, let’s be clear: fundraising consultants should never replace your amazing development staff. Full-time fundraisers are the relationship backbone of your organization. Fractional fundraising isn’t about choosing one over the other—it’s about finding the right mix of expertise, flexibility, and strategy to keep your fundraising efforts thriving – no matter what role transition, funding uncertainty, maternity/paternity leave, or global pandemic comes your way.
Here’s why nonprofits are adding fractional fundraisers to their fundraising toolkit.
1. Executive-Level Fundraising Smarts—Without the Full-Time Salary
We all know fundraising isn’t just about writing a great appeal letter or putting on a fun gala (although, props to you if you’re pulling that off well – it’s tough work!). It takes big-picture strategy, donor relationship-building, and consistent execution—which is why hiring a full-time fundraising pro is a fantastic investment.
But here’s the catch:
Full-time development directors = a six-figure salary (plus benefits, PTO, etc.).
Fractional fundraiser = executive-level expertise, flexible & hands-on support, and zero benefits package required.
If you have a full-time development team → A fractional fundraiser can help with specific funding projects/events, moves management for major gifts, or prospect research without adding permanent overhead.
If you don’t have a development team yet → A fractional fundraiser bridges the gap while you grow your fundraising infrastructure.
It’s not a replacement—it’s an addition to your nonprofit’s fundraising power.
2. Scale Your Fundraising Support Without the Commitment
Hiring a full-time fundraiser is a big decision, and sometimes, you just need help now—not six months from now when the hiring process is finally done and the fundraiser is somewhat onboarded.
Need an interim development director while you search for a full-time hire? Done.
Launching a capital campaign and need a strategist? You got it.
Trying to expand corporate giving but don’t know where to start? You’re in good hands.
With a fractional fundraiser, you get the expertise you need—exactly when you need it—without the pressure of a long-term commitment.
3. Fundraising is a Team Sport—Fractional Fundraisers Strengthen the Bench
Here’s the thing: fundraising isn’t a one-person job. Even if you have a full-time development director leading the charge, sometimes, the development workload is just too much—especially during big campaigns or events, end-of-year giving, or leadership transitions.
A fractional fundraiser is like the ultimate pinch hitter—jumping in to support your team, your board, and your fundraising efforts without throwing everything off balance.
Instead of thinking of fractional fundraising as an alternative to full-time staff, think of it as an extra layer of support that helps your nonprofit stay ahead of the fundraising game.
4. Get Fresh Ideas Without the Guesswork
Nonprofits are amazing at what they do. But let’s be real—sometimes, we all get stuck in our fundraising comfort zones.
Maybe your gala has been the same for the last decade (except for that one year when someone suggested an auctioneer on roller skates?). Maybe your board dies on the hill that direct mail is the only way to bring in donors.
A fractional fundraising consultant brings in fresh ideas, industry best practices, and an outsider’s perspective—without the trial-and-error guesswork.
Want to strengthen your donor pipeline? They know how.
Looking to land corporate sponsors who actually say yes? They should have both relationships & the skill set.
Need major gifts strategy that doesn’t feel overwhelming? You’re covered.
Even the best teams benefit from a fresh set of eyes—someone who can fine-tune your strategy and find new revenue opportunities that you might not even realize are there.
Is Fractional Fundraising Right for Your Nonprofit?
Let’s do a quick gut check:
Do you need fundraising support but aren’t ready for a full-time hire?
Are you in a leadership transition and need interim development support?
Do you want to expand into major gifts, corporate giving, or launch a comprehensive or capital campaign?
Would an outside expert help sharpen your fundraising strategy and bring a fresh perspective?
If you found yourself nodding along, fractional fundraising could be the missing piece you’ve been looking for.
Let’s Make Some Fundraising Magic Happen
At The Philanthropy Place, we’re all about hands-on, strategic fundraising support—whether that means major gift strategy, comprehensive or capital campaign guidance, or stepping in as an interim development leader.
We’re not here to replace your fundraising team—we’re here to strengthen and support them, so that your fundraising goals and relationships with prospective and current donors don’t miss a beat.
Interested in diving deeper? Let’s chat!
