I have benefitted so much from the ideas here, I wanted to share. Last year I inherited a list of about 50 donors, and have now created a list of over 1,000. Lots of national, but pretty much every business I can think of in our area
Tips I have learned about requests:
- at least 8 weeks in advance
- use the format the business requires - many have the rules on their website, even some relatively small local businesses require an online form - look under 'FAQ' or 'contact us' or 'donation request' and the name
- personalize the letter with the name of the business owner - my letters only went out last week, but I already have several from places how ignored us last year
good luck everyone - now I need to set up a google doc like people have suggested