Education fundraising specialists supporting schools, colleges, universities, charities, faith and community groups
Education fundraising specialists supporting schools, colleges, universities, charities, faith and community groups
At Early Bird Philanthropy, education fundraising is at our heart. We support independent and state schools, colleges, and universities to build sustainable and confident development programmes that deliver real impact. Our tailored approach strengthens fundraising strategies, nurtures donor relationships, and embeds best-practice stewardship.
We also work with community groups, arts and heritage organisations, and faith-linked charities—offering support from strategy development to grant writing and donor engagement.
Additionally, we provide interim fundraising and development cover, offering skilled, hands-on support to maintain momentum during times of change. Whatever your goals, we bring practical expertise and genuine care to help you grow lasting philanthropic impact.
We offer fundraising support throughout Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Greater London, Birmingham, the East of England, and the Midlands. Our local understanding and practical expertise mean your fundraising receives relevant, effective help where it matters most.
Focused attention on education fundraising delivers lasting value. We help you create practical plans that build on your strengths or guide you from the start. Our approach supports income growth, donor loyalty, and telling your unique story clearly.
By blending diverse elements of fundraising and donor segments —individual giving, major gifts, legacies, alumni and community engagement—we build flourishing development programmes. Together, we set priorities, overcome challenges, and sustain momentum for long-term philanthropic growth.
A fundraising audit is like an MOT for your organisation’s fundraising—especially tailored to education fundraising for schools, colleges, and universities. We provide an honest, practical review of your current fundraising activities, governance, and stewardship to identify strengths and opportunities for growth.
Our audits offer clear, relevant recommendations designed to boost your strategy and performance, helping you build confidence and maximise impact. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refresh your approach, our supportive, collaborative process ensures you feel empowered to take the next steps.
Get in touch to explore how a fundraising audit can help your organisation thrive and deepen its philanthropic potential.
We specialise in education fundraising consulting, partnering with schools, colleges, and universities to design and deliver flourishing development programmes. From individual giving, alumni and major donor engagement to legacy fundraising, endowment building, and campaign planning, we tailor services to your unique goals.
Combining sector insight with practical experience, we work alongside you to clarify priorities, overcome challenges, and empower your team. Our collaborative, transparent approach helps you build sustainable, confident fundraising that makes a meaningful difference for your organisation and community.
Dean Jones began his Development career as an Education fundraising specialist and founded Early Bird Philanthropy with a simple vision: philanthropy has the power to transform education and uplift communities through clear, honest fundraising built on genuine relationships. With over 15 years’ experience across education, community, and the arts sectors, Dean specialises in supporting schools, colleges, and universities to develop sustainable fundraising programmes that make a real difference.
Having held hands-on roles in education fundraising at The Royal Latin School, The University of Buckingham, and community place-based fundraising at Northamptonshire Community Foundation, Dean understands that successful fundraising is more than securing funds—it’s about nurturing lasting support through good stewardship and excellent client care.
Dean works closely with each client, listening carefully and providing expert guidance on major donor programmes, capital campaigns, grant applications, and legacy fundraising. His kind, collaborative approach helps organisations feel supported, confident, and empowered to grow their philanthropy responsibly.
A proud member of the Chartered Institute of Fundraising, Dean remains dedicated to helping education and community organisations unlock their potential through ethical, transparent, relationship-led fundraising.
