You’re under pressure to raise money, engage donors, and hit your goals — all while managing a dozen other things.

If campaign planning feels like a rushed scramble every time, you’re not alone. Most nonprofit teams are never really taught how to run a structured, donor-centered campaign.

That’s why I created a framework that walks through campaign planning from start to finish — and I’m sharing three of the biggest mistakes I see all the time (plus how to fix them).

Mistake #1: Skipping the Strategy Phase

A lot of campaigns start with “Let’s do this again!” or “We need to raise $25K this month” — but without defining why, for whom, or how.

What to Do Instead

Start by getting strategic:

• Define clear, measurable goals

• Identify your ideal donor segments

• Craft a core message that speaks to why now

This strategic foundation is the blueprint for everything else.

Mistake #2: No Timeline = Scramble Mode

When you don’t have a real plan or communication schedule, things get chaotic fast — and donors can feel it.

What to Do Instead

Map your campaign into 3 clear phases:

• Pre-launch: build momentum & early buzz

• Mid-campaign: reinforce urgency & share progress

• Final push: make a compelling final ask

✨ Pro tip: Add milestones to keep your team on track and your messaging fresh.

Mistake #3: Underestimating the Power of the Ask

The #1 reason donors don’t give? They weren’t clearly asked. Many fundraisers soften their language or bury the CTA out of fear of sounding pushy.

What to Do Instead

Make bold, confident asks that include:

• A clear dollar amount or impact statement

• Multi-tiered giving options

• Emotional + practical reasons to give

• And don’t forget a compelling thank-you plan!

Want to Plan Your Next Campaign with Confidence?

These are just the highlights from the step-by-step system I use when working with clients one-on-one.

If you’re ready to get organized, make a plan, and raise more without burning out, I’d love to help.

Book a discovery call to talk through your goals and how we can work together. Or, if you're ready to roll up your sleeves, consider a Day with The Maven — a deep-dive session where we build your next campaign plan from the ground up.

👉 Let’s Talk – Book a Call

👉 Learn About Day with The Maven

You don’t have to wing it anymore. Let’s build a campaign that actually works — and feels a whole lot easier!