Our Raising Momentum Success Model breaks down the complexity of fundraising into clear, actionable steps to grow individual giving.
How We Use the Model
Partnering with you to improve your fundraising program is our goal. Whether you’re working with us through consulting, attending our action-based training, or using our RM Propel tool, the RM Success Model is the foundation of everything we do.
The RM Success Model is how we APPLY our philosophy on fundraising:
- Assess your current fundraising program
- Prioritize what to tackle first based on your goals and capacity
- Plan your roadmap to sustainability
- Leverage changes and strategies that move you forward
- YOU did it! Take time to celebrate your achievements!
How It Works
Think of the RM Success Model as your fundraising GPS. It meets you where you are and guides you where to go next, giving you access to templates, tools and resources that equip you and your organization to raise more money. The approach is incremental, actionable, measurable, customized and comprehensive.
The model is organized into four core categories that every sustainable fundraising program needs to prioritize:
People
People are your greatest asset. This category covers everything from staff recruitment and onboarding to board engagement and development to the donors who have and will fuel the mission. We help you build and maximize the relationships that matter most.
Structure
Strong systems create consistent results. We help you establish the policies, procedures, and financial and technology infrastructure that turn fundraising from chaotic to strategic.
Messaging
Relationships are built on authentic communication. This category ensures your case for support, donor materials, and brand messaging effectively connect your mission to the people who care most.
Strategy
Smart strategy meets donors where they are and moves them forward. From annual and mid level giving to major gifts and legacy giving, we help you create comprehensive approaches that work together.
The Philosophy Behind the Model
The RM Success Model is built on core beliefs that guide all of our work:
- Big change happens through small, intentional steps – You don’t need to fix everything at once!
- Relationships are at the heart of fundraising – Intentionally deepening connections with donors, your team and your Board is what matters most
- Simplicity beats complexity – The best systems are ones your team will actually use
- Celebrate wins along the way – Success begets success!
Four Levels of Maturity
Within each category, the model progresses through four distinct levels:
- Foundational: The essential elements every fundraising program needs
- Advanced: Building on your foundation with more sophisticated approaches
- Comprehensive: Integrating multiple strategies that work together
- Sustainable: Maintaining momentum with systems that ensure long-term success
This progression allows you to:
- Identify exactly where your program stands today
- Prioritize what needs attention first
- Build systematically without getting overwhelmed
- Celebrate progress as you advance through each level
Why This Approach Works
It’s incremental. Big change happens through small, intentional steps. The model breaks down fundraising into manageable pieces so you can make real progress without burning out your team.
It’s comprehensive. We don’t just focus on one area. The model addresses all the interconnected elements that make fundraising programs successful.
It’s customized. Every organization starts at a different place. The model meets you where you are and creates a roadmap tailored to your specific needs and goals.
It’s actionable. This isn’t theory. Every component of the model connects to concrete tools, templates, and strategies you can implement immediately.
It’s measurable. You’ll always know where you stand, what progress you’ve made, and what impact your efforts are creating.
Ready to See Where You Stand?
The first step is understanding your starting point. Our RM Propel tool uses the Success Model to give you a clear picture of your fundraising program’s strengths and opportunities. In just 20 minutes, you’ll get a customized report showing exactly where you are across all four categories and what to focus on next.
Work With Us
Or if you’re ready to dive deeper with customized consulting and support, let’s talk about how the RM Success Model can transform your fundraising program.
