Marketing & Development are Better Together

Fundraising campaigns don’t start with a catchy subject line. Well, it helps (and let’s be honest, it’s really fun to brainstorm on a clever one). But before the witty email opener or envelope teaser, what really drives a strong campaign is a story. A story from someone truly impacted by your work.

Yet, in many orgs, the development and marketing teams operate in silos. We know this feeling all too well. Development is focused on donor goals and deadlines, while marketing is juggling brand, communications and content calendars. Both are working hard. But without Marketing and Development collaboration, storytelling often becomes an afterthought and something squeezed in last-minute or pulled from an outdated folder. The result is a campaign that checks the boxes for a project, but doesn’t move hearts.

When development and marketing teams work together strategically, the impact is real. Not just in messaging, but in results. Here’s what happens when you collaborate early:

• The campaign has a clear voice that’s aligned with your brand and your mission.
• The story you share is relevant, recent, and emotionally resonant – not just something that’s “good enough” to meet a print deadline.
• Every element works together to build trust and inspire action.

#Goals

Capturing good stories takes time. It means following up with staff, asking thoughtful questions, listening and choosing moments that reflect your organization’s values and impact. It also means planning ahead so the stories have their own spotlight and not get squeezed into a generic appeal.