Feasibility Study
What is a Feasibility Study?
The purpose of The Feasibility Study is to test the level of support for the proposed capital campaign, assess the readiness of the church for a capital campaign, identify potential leadership and major gifts, and determine a fundraising goal.
Process
Working with a task group of five to seven church staff and leaders, The James Company staff guides the following steps. This process takes approximately six to eight weeks to complete.
- Fact Finding – Church records and church financial data and are reviewed.
- Information Pamphlet – A preliminary statement is developed outlining the vision for ministry and the proposed case for support.
- Congregational Input – Information Pamphlets and Survey response forms are mailed direct to all members. Members are invited to attend Information Gatherings at which they can ask questions and offer feedback.
- Survey – A Survey is offered online (or hard copy) to give everyone an opportunity to respond.
- Personal Interviews – Personal interviews are conducted with active members who represent a cross-section of the church. The list should include financial stewardship leaders, current ministry representatives, appeal volunteer prospects, and highly respected members.
- Report – A written report is prepared and presented to the governing body regarding the readiness of the church for a fund appeal.
Variables
To assess a congregation’s readiness for a capital campaign, the following variables are evaluated:
- Awareness of the vision for ministry
- Agreement with the proposed case for support
- Leadership availability for guiding a campaign
- Potential financial support, including major gifts
- Timing for a fund appeal