Fundraisers
Fundraisers organize and implement activities designed to solicit monetary donations and gifts for organizations. They work for nonprofits, educational institutions, healthcare systems, and other mission-driven organizations. The role involves planning fundraising events, managing donor relationships, creating promotional materials, and communicating the organization's financial needs and goals to potential supporters.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against fundraisers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A fundraiser's week typically includes planning and executing fundraising events, meeting with donors and prospect prospects to discuss giving opportunities, and writing grant proposals or donation appeals. They may coordinate volunteer activities, track donation data, create marketing materials, and analyze campaign results. Time is split between office work—managing databases and communications—and in-person engagement at events, community meetings, or donor visits.
Who this work suits
Holland code ESC. Enterprising work is leading, persuading and making decisions. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy the enterprising challenge of building relationships and persuading others to support a cause. You're also drawn to social interaction and the collaborative work of mobilizing people around a shared mission. You thrive when connecting donors' interests with an organization's needs.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $65,080 | $80,840 | $102,690 | 2,350 |
| New York | $64,720 | $80,540 | $101,250 | 11,600 |
| Maryland | $66,710 | $79,780 | $95,580 | 2,010 |
| California | $62,360 | $79,710 | $101,930 | 12,860 |
| Massachusetts | $60,570 | $79,060 | $102,990 | 6,160 |
| Washington | $61,570 | $79,000 | $99,640 | 3,870 |
| Connecticut | $60,720 | $77,730 | $100,530 | 1,350 |
| New Jersey | $61,790 | $77,170 | $98,220 | 1,950 |
| Minnesota | $61,620 | $76,910 | $101,090 | 3,190 |
| North Dakota | $58,140 | $76,040 | $104,290 | 340 |
| Rhode Island | $62,850 | $75,410 | $94,840 | 1,000 |
| Colorado | $60,670 | $74,440 | $98,170 | 2,470 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Grant Professional Certified (GPC) — Grant Professionals Certification Institute
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against fundraisers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 13-1131.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.