Fundraising Managers
Fundraising managers plan and direct activities to solicit and maintain funds for nonprofit organizations and special projects. They work in nonprofits, educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and other mission-driven entities. The role involves developing fundraising strategies, managing donor relationships, and coordinating campaigns to meet organizational financial goals.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against fundraising managers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A fundraising manager might spend mornings reviewing donor databases and planning outreach for an upcoming campaign. Afternoons could involve meeting with potential major donors, drafting grant proposals, or coordinating with board members on fundraising events. The work includes tracking donations, analyzing campaign results, managing budgets, and adjusting strategies based on performance metrics. Evening hours may involve attending fundraising galas or donor appreciation events.
Who this work suits
Holland code ECS. Enterprising work is leading, persuading and making decisions. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy persuading others and building business relationships while also appreciating systems, data, and organizational processes. People who succeed in this role tend to be strategic thinkers who find satisfaction in both the interpersonal work of donor engagement and the detailed planning required to run effective fundraising operations.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $130,140 | $169,510 | $223,630 | 4,080 |
| New Hampshire | $109,860 | $157,080 | $201,030 | 270 |
| Rhode Island | $124,840 | $155,970 | $175,780 | 220 |
| Massachusetts | $107,450 | $151,740 | $204,560 | 2,260 |
| Virginia | $104,880 | $143,730 | $191,380 | 880 |
| District of Columbia | $128,360 | $141,720 | $169,130 | 800 |
| New Jersey | $114,280 | $140,500 | $172,610 | 750 |
| Washington | $112,090 | $137,010 | $182,260 | 1,050 |
| California | $106,910 | $135,870 | $192,290 | 5,430 |
| Delaware | $111,130 | $131,750 | $164,500 | 120 |
| Maryland | $103,090 | $130,750 | $172,290 | 810 |
| Colorado | $105,950 | $130,010 | $165,400 | 600 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
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 fundraising managers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 11-2033.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.