Fundraisers: Salary, career path, job outlook, education and more

Education Required
Although fundraisers have a variety of academic backgrounds, employers typically prefer a candidate with a bachelors degree in public relations, journalism, communications, English, or business. Degrees in other subjects also may be acceptable.
Job Outlook
The projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026: 15% (Much faster than average)
(The average growth rate for all occupations is 7 percent.)
Advancement
Fundraisers can advance to fundraising manager positions. However, some manager positions may also require a masters degree, in addition to years of work experience as a fundraiser.
Licenses/Certifications
Laws vary by state, but many states require some types of fundraisers to register with a state authority. Check with your state for more information.
Median pay: How much do Fundraisers make?
$54,130 Annual Salary
$26.02 per hour

Fundraisers organize events and campaigns to raise money and other kinds of donations for an organization. They also may design promotional materials and increase awareness of an organizations work, goals, and financial needs.

What do Fundraisers do?

Fundraisers typically do the following:

  • Research prospective donors
  • Create a strong fundraising message that appeals to potential donors
  • Identify and contact potential donors
  • Use online platforms to raise donations
  • Organize campaigns or events to solicit donations
  • Maintain records of donor information
  • Evaluate the success of previous fundraising events
  • Train volunteers in fundraising procedures and practices
  • Ensure that all legal reporting requirements are satisfied

Fundraisers plan and oversee campaigns and events to raise money and other kinds of donations for an organization. They ensure that campaigns are effective by researching potential donors and examining records of those who have given in the past.

Fundraisers who work for political campaigns must be knowledgeable about campaign finance laws, such as the contribution limits of an individual giving to a specific candidate.

The following are examples of types of fundraisers:

Careers for Fundraisers

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