Fundraisers secure financial support for nonprofits, educational institutions, and other organizations. You'll build relationships, communicate a mission, and solve problems to meet funding goals. Most positions require a bachelor's degree and strong interpersonal skills.
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Fundraisers develop strategies to attract donors and generate revenue for their organizations. You establish and maintain relationships with potential supporters, communicate your organization's mission and impact, and gather information about funding opportunities. Your work involves making decisions about which prospects to pursue, developing objectives for campaigns, and using computers to track donor data and manage communications. You'll write proposals, speak with donors, and monitor progress toward fundraising targets. The role blends relationship building with strategic planning and problem-solving.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Fundraisers earn a median of $72,550 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is steady. Employment is projected to grow 4 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average for all occupations, with about 10,200 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most fundraising positions require a bachelor's degree. Your education should include coursework in customer service, sales and marketing, administration, and communications. Strong preparation involves developing skills in speaking, writing, active listening, and critical thinking. You'll benefit from learning about economics and accounting to understand budgets and financial management. Consider internships or entry-level roles in development or donor relations to build experience. Job Zone 4 preparation means you'll need considerable time to develop the knowledge and skills employers expect.
Fundraising careers typically start with a bachelor's degree and entry-level development roles. Since education paths and timelines vary, Pathly can map the fundraiser path that fits you with your counselor to map out a plan that fits your goals and circumstances.
Many fundraisers must be licensed, and professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
Licensing is handled at the state level and the requirements vary, so check the licensing board in your state. Pathly shows your state's specific steps inside your roadmap.
You're drawn to fundraising if you enjoy persuading others, building influence, and taking charge of initiatives. Enterprising types thrive in roles where they can lead campaigns and drive results.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).