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About Research at AFP: Linking Fundraising Theory and Practice

An occupation becomes a true profession when it is based on a body of knowledge that is unique and specific to its practice and function. Such knowledge comes from both experience and research.

Research is vital to the fundraising profession

Until recently there has been very little scholarly research on the practice of fundraising. To address this need, AFP has assumed a leadership role in the advancement of research on fundraising and philanthropy through a number of initiatives, including:

AFP's State of Fundraising

The AFP State of Fundraising survey was developed in response to the events of Sept. 11, 2001. The Association has planned a series of reports to track fundraising levels among AFP members' organizations.

• State of Fundraising, General
• State of Fundraising 2009
• State of Fundraising 2008
• State of Fundraising 2007
• State of Fundraising 2006
• State of Fundraising 2005
• State of Fundraising 2004
• State of Fundraising 2003
• State of Fundraising 2002
• State of Fundraising 2001

Think Tanks on Fundraising Research

The AFP Research Council, in collaboration with several other philanthropy-related organizations, periodically conducts Think Tanks on Fundraising Research. The purpose of the these is to encourage a constructive dialogue between scholars and practitioners on philanthropy and fundraising.  Learn more

Research Grants/Research Agenda

AFP awards grants of up to $10,000 for research related to philanthropy and fundraising. Guidelines for applying for a grant are found under AFP Research Grants. For information on research priorities of the AFP Research Council, visit AFP's research agenda and policy.

Skystone Partners Prize for Research on Fundraising and Philanthropy

Each year the Research Council Prize Jury selects an author of a book that advances our knowledge of fundraising and philanthropy. The winning author receives a $3,000 award made possible by Skystone Partners, LLC. For more information, visit our page about the Research Prize.

Compensation and Benefits Survey

AFP collects data on members' salaries and benefits. Results are published annually.  The AFP Compensation and Benefits Report can be found in the Member Gateway section of the AFP website. A summary of findings is found here.

Fundraising Effectiveness Project

U.S. and Canadian charities can learn more about their fundraising strenghts and weaknesses and how their results compare to other organizations by participating in the second Fundraising Effectiveness Project (FEP survey, sponsored by AFP and the Urban Institute's Center on Nonprofits and Philanthropy in Washington, D.C.  Follow this link for more information on FEP

Related AFP Resources