A Fundraising Case Statement, sometimes called a "Case for Support", is a document that is prepared as a resource for your fundraising communication material.  Taking the time to collect a lot of useful information in advance, and get it approved, can save a lot of time when the need arises for proposals, brochures, website copy or letters to donors.

The Fundraising Case Statement should be a comprehensive document. Since it is an internal resource, length and style are not issues.  In some cases, you may be able to use existing documents that you piece together in a single electronic file or in a binder.

Some of the information that should be included in the Case Statement:

• history of your organization
• description of the organization, such as, size, what it does, where it is located, etc.
• detailed description of all the programs and services offered
• how many people and what type of people does the organization serve with its programs
• how do you measure the impact of these programs on the people served and the community
• include any quotes from people that illustrate this impact
• the cost of offering these programs and services - your budget
• detail where the money comes from to meet these costs IE government, fundraising, etc.
• describe any new programs, services or facilities that are planned
• make a case for why these are needed
• how much will the new programs or facilities cost?
• describe your plan for meeting the cost of these new programs or facilities
• include any evidence of need and cost such as feasibility studies, architect's plans, etc.
• include any quotes of endorsement from authorities, politicians, academics, etc.
• detail how donors will be recognized if they contribute to your organization 

Once all of this information is collected and written, you will have the basis for your fundraising communications.