The 5 Biggest Fundraising Challenges (And How to Beat Them)

Fundraising is the heartbeat of every nonprofit — and also one of the hardest parts of the job. If you've ever felt overwhelmed trying to raise money for your organization, you're far from alone.

• In fact, a recent survey found that nearly all fundraisers feel anxious about constantly finding new donors
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From unclear strategies to lack of support, many nonprofit professionals are facing similar roadblocks.

The good news?

These challenges are common, and they’re solvable — especially with the right tools and training.

Here are five of the biggest fundraising hurdles nonprofits face, and how you can overcome them.

Fundraising Challenge #1 Finding and Keeping Donors

Whether you're brand new or well-established, donor acquisition and retention are always top concerns.

Many nonprofits struggle with donor attrition — supporters who give once but never return — and increasing donor fatigue.

• In a recent national survey, the majority of fundraisers said that the continuous pursuit of new donor causes them significant stress.

How to Overcome The Challenge

• Prioritize donor stewardship, not just acquisition.
• The best donor is one you already have.
• Use a donor journey mindset: from first gift to long-term champion.

Share impact stories, offer thanks often, and show how each donation is making a difference.

Donors don’t just want to give — they want to feel like they belong. That’s your opportunity.

Fundraising Challenge #2 Fear of the Ask

Knowing who to ask, what to say, and how to say it is a major barrier — especially for new fundraisers.

Many fear rejection or feel unsure how to craft a compelling appeal.

• The majority fundraisers report anxiety around creating persuasive donation asks.

How to Overcome The Challenge

• Understand the psychology of giving: people are motivated by emotion, not data.
• Use storytelling to make your appeal human and personal.
• Rehearse your “ask” aloud — confidence comes from preparation.

Asking doesn’t have to feel pushy. When you believe in your mission, you’re not begging — you’re inviting people to make a difference.

Fundraising Challenge #3 No Formal Training

Most nonprofit professionals learn fundraising on the job. Without structured guidance, it’s easy to feel lost about strategy, best practices, or donor management.

• Only 17% of U.S. fundraisers learned their craft through formal academic education.
  
  

The rest? They’ve been figuring it out as they go.

How to Overcome The Challenge

• Seek out professional development programs or certificates that provide step-by-step training.
• Learn the fundamentals: annual giving, major gifts, planned giving, grant writing, and more.
  
  

The right training doesn’t just build skills — it builds confidence.

OSU’s self-paced Fundraising Certificate Program was designed for people just like you.

Fundraising Challenge #4 Lack of Board and Staff Support 

Fundraising shouldn’t fall on one person’s shoulders — yet many fundraisers feel isolated. Getting support from staff and board members can be an uphill battle.

The majority of fundraisers say their board members are unwilling to help raise money — and more than half even decline training.

Here are a few reasons why board members don't like to raise money.

How to Overcome The Challenge

• Clarify roles. Everyone has a part to play in fundraising, even if it’s opening doors or thanking donors.
• Provide simple ways for board members to contribute (e.g. hosting, sharing social media posts, making introductions).
• Share your wins! Celebrating success can build a culture of enthusiasm and ownership.

Fundraising is a team sport. The more engaged your leadership, the more successful your campaigns.

Fundraising Challenge #5 Financial Uncertainty and External Pressures

Fundraising doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Inflation, economic shifts, and crises (like the pandemic) deeply affect both donor behavior and nonprofit budgets.

• Individual giving dropped in 2022 (adjusted for inflation), and a large majority of fundraisers are worried about how economic conditions will affect donations.

How to Overcome The Challenge

• Focus on trust and transparency: donors give when they believe their money will be used wisely.
• Communicate clearly how their support helps — especially during uncertain times.
• Be flexible: diversify your fundraising channels and experiment with different campaign types.

The world will always change — but if your mission is clear and your message is strong, your supporters will stick with you.

Final Thought: You're Not Alone

If fundraising feels hard, that’s because it is — even for the pros.

But you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.

With expert guidance, practical tools, and support from those who’ve been in your shoes, you can turn these common challenges into real progress.

Want to raise more with less stress?

Explore  Oregon State University’s online, self-paced Fundraising Certificate Program — built by experienced fundraisers to help you develop, strengthen, and support your fundraising success.

Your mission matters. Let’s help you fund it.