A Fundraising Consultant is a person who is paid by a charity to advise on fundraising, but who does not himself make a solicitation on behalf of the charity for money or property. Hence a fundraising consultant might draft advertising material, advise on target donors, fundraising strategies etc. Fundraising consultants can:
" Train and motivate people in all aspects of fundraising.
" Create fundraising plans and help implement and evaluate those plans.
" Research prospective donors and write proposals if needed.
" Set up a data base for keeping track of donor information.
" Conduct feasibility studies.
" Conduct direct mail campaigns.
" Help board members understand their responsibilities, and help organizations recruit and train good board members.
" Study and recommend structural changes in an organization to improve functioning and fundraising efficiency.
" Help hire fundraising staff.
" Set up any other fundraising strategy that an organization has decided to use.
" Manage mailing lists and donor information.
A Maryland Fundraiser Consultant Agreement is a legally binding contract between a fundraising consultant and an organization or individual based in Maryland, outlining the terms and conditions of their professional relationship. This agreement is intended to establish clear expectations and obligations for both parties involved in fundraising activities to ensure transparency and compliance with Maryland state laws and regulations. In general, a Maryland Fundraiser Consultant Agreement typically includes the following key elements: 1. Parties Involved: The agreement identifies the parties involved, including the name and contact information of the fundraising consultant and the organization or individual hiring their services. 2. Scope of Services: This section defines the specific fundraising services to be provided by the consultant. It outlines the consultant's responsibilities, such as conducting fundraising campaigns, strategizing donor outreach, assisting with grant applications, providing fundraising reports, and any other relevant tasks. 3. Compensation: This clause specifies the consultant's fees or payment structure for their services. It outlines the agreed-upon compensation amount, payment terms (e.g., hourly rate, flat fee, or commission-based), and any additional expenses the consultant may be entitled to. 4. Duration and Termination: The agreement states the duration of the consultancy engagement, including start and end dates. It also includes provisions for early termination, outlining conditions under which either party can terminate the agreement and any associated consequences. 5. Confidentiality: This section emphasizes the consultant's obligation to maintain strict confidentiality regarding any sensitive or proprietary information they may come across during the course of their work. It may require the consultant to sign a separate confidentiality agreement if deemed necessary. 6. Compliance with Laws and Regulations: Given the specific focus on Maryland, this clause ensures that the consultant will adhere to all relevant state laws and regulations governing fundraising activities. It seeks to ensure that the fundraising consultant operates legally and ethically within the state. 7. Independent Contractor Relationship: This section establishes that the consultant is an independent contractor and not an employee of the hiring organization. It clarifies that the consultant is responsible for their taxes, insurance, and other legal obligations as an independent business entity. 8. Indemnification: This clause outlines the consultant's responsibility to indemnify and hold harmless the hiring party from any claims, damages, or liabilities arising from their actions or advice during the course of the fundraising consultancy. Types of Maryland Fundraiser Consultant Agreements may vary depending on the specific nature of the fundraising services being provided. Some commonly encountered variations may include: 1. Event-based Fundraiser Consultant Agreement: This type of agreement is specific to consultants hired to organize and manage fundraising events such as galas, auctions, or charity runs. 2. Grant Writing Fundraiser Consultant Agreement: This agreement is tailored for consultants specializing in grant writing, where they assist organizations in applying for grants from various funding sources. 3. Major Donor Cultivation Fundraiser Consultant Agreement: This type of agreement focuses on consultants tasked with strategizing and implementing plans to cultivate relationships with major donors or high-net-worth individuals, ultimately leading to significant contributions. 4. Capital Campaign Fundraiser Consultant Agreement: This agreement is specific to consultants engaged to plan and execute capital campaigns, which are fundraising efforts aimed at raising substantial funds for building projects, endowments, or major organizational initiatives. By utilizing a Maryland Fundraiser Consultant Agreement, organizations and individuals can establish a solid foundation for their fundraising endeavors, ensuring a mutually beneficial relationship between the consultant and the hiring party while complying with Maryland's specific laws and regulations.
