Propel for Nonprofits, in partnership with Our Space MN and Platform Real Estate Advisors, engaged Four Stones Consulting to conduct a comprehensive fundraising feasibility study to assess the viability of establishing a dedicated shelter for transgender adults experiencing homelessness in the Twin Cities. The study focused on the following:
Gauging Donor Interest & Strategic Alignment: Determine the level of interest and potential financial support from individual donors, foundations, corporations, and government entities for a Trans Shelter project that aligns with a holistic public health strategy, focusing on SDOH, and incorporating trauma-informed design principles.
Identifying Key Supporters: Pinpoint prospective major donors and philanthropic organizations aligned with the mission of supporting the trans community, particularly given Minnesota's Trans Refuge status and the unique needs of this population as identified by the 2023 Minnesota Homeless Study.
Assessing Fundraising Capacity for Comprehensive Needs: Evaluate the realistic fundraising goal and timeline for a capital campaign that includes acquisition and initial operational support, acknowledging the importance of ownership by a queer and transgender organization and the need for tailored services addressing violence, mental health, and substance use.
Identifying Challenges & Opportunities: Uncover potential obstacles or concerns that may arise during a fundraising campaign, while also identifying opportunities to leverage Minnesota's Trans Refuge status and the absence of a dedicated LGBTQ center as compelling reasons for support.
Our approach
Stakeholder InterviewsLacking an existing single organizational donor list, we leveraged our extensive network of Minnesota LGBTQ and housing stability funders to build our interviewee pipeline. We conducted one-on-one interviews with key community leaders, potential major donors, foundation representatives, and service providers. Building on the initial needs assessment and site analysis, these conversations evaluated philanthropic alignment with core project goals, including trauma-informed design and organizational ownership.
Philanthropic Landscape AnalysisWe conducted research into current giving trends, philanthropic priorities in the Twin Cities, and successful fundraising models for similar social impact projects, with a specific focus on initiatives supporting LGBTQ+ communities, housing solutions, and health equity. This included an analysis of funding for acquisition and ongoing maintenance of community-owned spaces.
Internal Capacity AssessmentWe reviewed of the project's current organizational structure, leadership, and readiness for a major fundraising effort, taking into account the expertise already engaged through the powerful project partners, and provided a concrete set of recommendations for internal infrastructure, campaign launch priorities, and clear next steps.