FUNdRAISING - Berufliche Qualifizierung von Fundraiser*innen in sozialen Organisationen in Europa“

The central objective was to elevate the professional development of fundraisers to a European level. This meant enabling fundraising staff to learn across borders, share experiences, and collabor...

The central objective was to elevate the professional development of fundraisers to a European level. This meant enabling fundraising staff to learn across borders, share experiences, and collaboratively explore “good practice” examples. By doing so, the partnership aimed to discover how fundraising operates in different EU member states and how vocational training in this field can be shaped for the future. Specifically, the project set out to: (1) develop a common knowledge base on effective fundraising strategies in Europe, (2) improve participants’ understanding of fundraising principles and methods, (3) raise awareness of how poverty and social exclusion impact fundraising needs in each country, and (4) strengthen intercultural competencies and transnational cooperation skills among the professionals. All objectives aligned with Erasmus+ priorities of inclusion and diversity, since better fundraising ultimately supports projects for vulnerable groups.

Over the course of two years, the project was implemented through four transnational workshops and a piloted digital training course. Each workshop, hosted in turn by one of the partner organizations, lasted 2.5 days and focused on thematic exchange and on-site visits. The meetings took place in Cologne (Germany), Trieste (Italy), Târgu Mureș (Romania), and Vienna (Austria), with a total of 62 participants. In these formats, participants exchanged insights on current fundraising activities, learned about best-practice approaches from the host country, and discussed common challenges. In addition, from February to June 2025, the digital training course “Fundraising in Europe” was conducted, consisting of four half-day online workshops (a total of 16 hours) led by an expert. The topics covered ranged from basic principles and ethics to online fundraising and donor relationship management. Fifteen staff members from all partner organizations took part. Project coordination by the Diocesan Caritas Association of Cologne ensured a smooth process. Apart from minor scheduling adjustments, all planned activities were carried out successfully and largely according to plan.

The project achieved its goals of knowledge exchange and capacity building. The fundraising expertise of the participating professionals grew significantly, and a shared European knowledge base was established. Through the four workshops, participants gained valuable insights into various fundraising methods, funding opportunities from EU programs, foundations, and crowdfunding, as well as different national frameworks. The digital training program received very positive feedback: the majority of participants were highly satisfied with the content, relevance, and the instructor’s professional quality. She conveyed solid expertise and fostered cross-border exchange among fundraising professionals across Europe. The workshops led to tangible learning outcomes and stimulated new fundraising activities. Visits to specific funded projects were also helpful and motivating. The Erasmus+ project enhanced not only professional but also linguistic and intercultural competencies. Overall, it improved the ability of all participating organizations to raise funds for social purposes. The European collaboration was a great success and will continue beyond the project’s duration.