Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) Practice Test

Which group is typically the last to participate in developing an organization's fundraising case statement?

1. Marketing firm

2. Board of directors

3. Major donors

4. Fundraising committee

The correct answer is: Marketing firm

In the process of developing a fundraising case statement, the marketing firm is typically the last group to participate. This is because their role usually comes into play after the initial components of the case statement have been crafted, which often involve input from internal stakeholders who understand the organization's mission, vision, values, and goals in depth. The marketing firm’s expertise lies in refining the messaging and presentation of the case statement to resonate effectively with potential donors and stakeholders. Their contributions are crucial for ensuring that the final version communicates the intended message clearly and compellingly, but they need the foundational content established first, which is developed by other groups. In contrast, internal groups such as the board of directors, major donors, and the fundraising committee contribute much earlier in the process. The board might provide strategic oversight and approval, major donors can offer insights based on their experience and expectations, and the fundraising committee actively works to shape the direction and content of the statement based on the organization’s goals and fundraising strategies. Thus, their involvement is essential before the marketing firm steps in to finalize the case statement.