Income generation

Raising money is tough. Increased competition, reduced statutory funding, rising public scrutiny and critical media coverage are all impacting on charities funding.

We have over two decades of experience in front line fundraising roles, with a strong track record across all forms of income generation. Moreover, time spent as a CEO, Trustee and Non-Executive Director gives us a broader perspective than you may get from some other consultants.

Whether it be mentoring your income generation lead, a full review of your activities, or running a one day strategy or idea generation workshop, db associates experience and expertise can help you. 

After a period of falling sales, Princess Alice Hospice asked db associates to undertake a review of its weekly lottery and make recommendations for its future operation. Angela Grimes, Director of Income Generation, said; 

‘We knew that our lottery needed careful assessment. David undertook a thorough evaluation of its performance and analysis of the wider lottery market. He then produced a range of strategic options, outlining the key features and pros and cons of each.’

‘After reading his report, we agreed with his recommendation that we look to work with an external lottery provider. Following a competitive process, we were delighted to select Local Hospice Lottery as our partner.’ 

‘David’s expertise and knowledge made the whole process run very smoothly and our trustees remarked on the quality of his work.  I’d happily recommend David to another charity looking for support on a similar type of project.’ 

Oakhaven Hospice serves the New Forest and other parts of Hampshire and Dorset. Despite having a catchment area population of just around 170,000, it provides a full range of hospice services. Like many charities, Oakhaven is having to review its activities in light of Covid. CEO Andrew Ryde asked db associates to lead a review of its fundraising. 

‘David engaged with a wide range of staff and trustees and took time to learn about our culture and approach to fundraising. His many years of experience proved invaluable in analysing our current performance, seeing where our strengths are, but also areas where we could improve.' 

'We now have a series of recommended actions to consider, based on sound evidence and examples of good practice. As a hospice serving a small, largely rural community and with relatively low levels of NHS support, we have to work really hard to fund our care. David’s report will enable us to do this even more effectively. I happily recommend him to others.’ 

db associates worked with the Terrence Higgins Trust to provide an independent expert critique of its income generation activities as it launched a new strategy. 

"This was a vital project as we needed to demonstrate to our Board that we could raise the funds to implement our new strategy. David’s report combined careful analysis with sound arguments and strong evidence. We are very pleased to recommend him to other charities."   CEO Ian Green

Mentoring Income Generation Leads

The challenges for those leading income generation teams are really tough, with increasing  competition and difficulties in recruiting and keeping good fundraisers. We offer mentoring support for Directors, providing expert and experienced advice and insights gained from three decades of working in the sector. 

Angela Grimes became Director of Income Generation at Princess Alice Hospice, stepping up from her previous role as Head of Fundraising. She wanted some external mentoring to help her in the new post and the challenges involved.

'David’s support and advice has really helped me as I adjust to my new role. He has provided valuable insights and perspectives. In addition, he has introduced me to other people in the sector whose knowledge has also been of real benefit.’