The Launchpad by Second Day

Overall estimated read time: 14 minutes 

Last updated: July 2021

Fundraising (often called Development or Advancement at nonprofits) is a key department in any nonprofit institution. Whatever cause you care about, it almost always requires fundraising to pay staff and get stuff done. While asking for money might seem overwhelming, it is one of the best ways to understand how organizations operate and is a critical skill if you hope to run an organization yourself one day. On the spectrum of nonprofit jobs, fundraising can be on the higher end of the pay scale, with a quick learning curve. The work is engaging, and involves lots of interacting with other people who are passionate about your organization’s mission. 

Though most careers in development have similarities, your experience will vary depending on where you work and the role you take within that organization. To help you get a better picture of the opportunities available in the field, this guide will take you through what types of positions exist and the different types of organizations you may work at. The guide will conclude with best practices for getting a job in fundraising, and of course, the next three steps to take if you want to move forward with fundraising!