How to Build a Strong Case for Support

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

Too many social impact leaders step into donor meetings with a bold vision — but an unclear case for why anyone should support it.

Your case for support isn’t just a fundraising tool — it’s a strategic asset that can align your messaging, mobilize your team, and inspire serious investment in your mission. But only if you get it right.

In this episode, Eric and Jonathan walk through a 5-part framework to help you build a clear, compelling case that connects with hearts and minds — and opens doors.

➔ Why most cases for support skip the one question every donor is asking.
➔ The five ingredients of a persuasive narrative (and how to use them beyond fundraising).
➔ How to tailor your pitch without losing your integrity.
➔ Why “bragging” is essential — and how to do it without turning people off.
➔ A practical way to turn your case into a year-long content and management tool.

Whether you’re prepping for a major campaign or just trying to sharpen your story, this episode will help you rethink your approach — and give your supporters a reason to say yes.

Don't just ask for support. Make the case.

Episode Highlights:

• [00:00] Why your case for support must start with clarity
• [01:24] Why this isn’t just for capital campaigns
• [02:40] Step 1 – The Why
• [04:27] Step 2 – The Vision
• [07:44] Step 3 – The Strategy
• [10:30] Step 4 – Credibility
• [12:53] Brag or stay humble? Striking the right tone with funders
• [14:27] Step 5 – The Ask
• [21:42] Building a forecasting pipeline for major gifts
• [24:13] Mapping donor motivations to maximize engagement
• [25:40] Bonus: Turn your case for support into your content strategy

Resources:

• Better Brand Storytelling
• Rep. Katie Porter's Messaging Tactics
• Campaign Messaging for Major Donors vs. Grassroots Supporters
• Supercharge Your Social Enterprise’s Proof of Impact
• Your Theory of Change isn't finished until your Grandma can understand it.
• Change you make
• Your Organization’s Credibility Rests on Your Website
• Metrics or impact storytelling
• What to Do When Funders Say "No"

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We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at [email protected]

Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.

Fejezetek

1. Introduction to Case for Support (00:00:00)

2. The Why: Purpose, Problem, Urgency (00:03:14)

3. Creating a Compelling Vision (00:04:36)

4. Strategy: Your Approach to Change (00:07:21)

5. Building Credibility Without Bragging (00:10:39)

6. The Ask: Centering Donor Priorities (00:14:14)

7. Fundraising Pipeline Strategy (00:21:39)

8. Beyond Fundraising: Content Strategy (00:25:08)