Development Communications Request for Support

This document is intended to help Western’s development professionals clarify their needs for strategic advice and support in creating compelling materials that will inspire prospective donors to give to Western.

Answers to the following questions will help Western Communications prioritize development communications and marketing work, and effectively plan and execute communications strategies and tactics aimed at achieving the desired goals.

General Information

1. Please list all approved funding priorities to be included in this initiative, indicating:

Priority name/description

Term

Dollar Value Expendable

Dollar Value Endowed

Approved by dean and provost, enter name:

2. How does the project support Western’s overall goals and objectives?

3. How does it support the Faculty/department’s goals?

4. Who is/are the audience(s)? How knowledgeable are they about the subject matter?

5. Are there any existing materials or background information?

6. What is the timeline?

Project Specific Information

Answers to the following questions are the critical building blocks for successful marketing communications materials to support development goals.

1. What need or opportunity does this project address?

2. What proven capabilities do we have to meet that need or rise to that opportunity? Include as many proof points as possible – e.g., current impact of a program, initiative or service; third-party awards, grants or other validations, etc.) Remember: the more factual, the better.

3. Describe the program/initiative/service that will be put in place to address the need/opportunity.

4. What will it take to capitalize this initiative? Is there an established fundraising goal?

5. What is the impact if we secure the funding? Who will benefit? How? When?

6. How will we monitor or evaluate progress?