Ask Without Fear!®
The Simple Guide to Fundraising Success
Stop dreading fundraising and start connecting donors with what matters most
About the Book
Ask Without Fear!® is a fun, practical guide that distills years of successful fundraising experience into an easy-to-read volume. Available in five languages (English, Dutch, Polish, Spanish, and Mandarin), this international bestseller gives you the tools to raise serious money for your favorite cause – no matter where you are!
What You’ll Learn
✓ Master the art of the ask – Take the fear out of asking for (and getting) large gifts!
✓ Build authentic relationships – Follow a step-by-step, easy-to-remember process for connecting with donors in ways that keep them giving year after year
✓ Research like a pro – Discover time-tested tools to plan your fundraising campaign and truly get to know your donors
✓ Avoid costly mistakes – Learn the 7 most common fundraising mistakes and how to sidestep them
✓ Tailor your approach – Identify personality traits and adapt your message to fit each donor’s style – even on the fly
✓ Handle objections with confidence – Turn donor hesitation into enthusiastic support using proven techniques
Who This Book Is For
- Board members intimidated by fundraising
- New development professionals
- Executive directors wearing multiple hats
- Volunteers passionate about a cause
- Anyone who wants to raise more money with less stress
What Others Are Saying
Industry Experts
“Get REAL will take on new meaning for board and staff members who read this book. Readable, on point, filled with memorable stories and well-tested practices, this little book is a great addition to the field of pragmatic advice.”
“I enjoyed Ask Without Fear! Marc has taken a subject that has been written about often and given it a new twist. Clearly, his effort is a work of passion and love. My hat is off to him.”
“This short, practical book gives you a series of step-by-step methods to raise more money, faster and easier than you ever thought possible.”
“Reading Ask Without Fear! by uber-wise Marc A. Pitman. So practical and simple! Nothing new or earth-shaking, just very simple. More doable and less intimidating than similar books. Filled with Marc’s delicious, joyful spirit, it makes me want to ask!”
Readers & Practitioners
“Marc is a skillful and knowledgable coach, and a true expert on fundraising. He provided very helpful fundraising advice to a nonprofit where I serve on the board. If you need someone to assist with any area of fundraising, Marc is your guy!”
“I read the book over the long weekend and really enjoy it! I especially like that it was both informative and concise. That tends to be a rarity.”
“The book was a game changer for me! I read it in a single afternoon, and by the time I had finished, my whole strategy had changed. What I found particularly insightful was the concept of matching a cause to a person who cares about it.”
“I like that Pitman is applying the coaching paradigm to fundraising…I have no doubt that he can coach the most timid and fearful fundraising staff member or nonprofit board member through their first contacts and on to ultimate success.”
About the Author
Marc A. Pitman, CSP® is an international fundraising expert and founder of FundraisingCoach.com, listed by The Atlantic as one of “5 Philanthropic Blogs Fundraisers Need to Read.” Convinced that “fundraising is an extreme sport,” he has raised millions of dollars for education, arts, and healthcare organizations. A popular speaker and skilled coach, Marc loves infecting others with the joy of fundraising.
Where to Buy (or Borrow)
Board Bundle Special – Exclusive Offer
Order 10 paperback copies directly from FundraisingCoach.com and save 35%
Equip your entire board with the confidence to fundraise!
Normally $149.50, only $97
FAQ: Ask Without Fear!®
What is Ask Without Fear!® about?
Ask Without Fear!® is a practical, conversational guide to fundraising that equips nonprofit professionals and board members to confidently ask for donations without manipulation or awkwardness. Based on Marc A. Pitman’s proven R.E.A.L.™ system (Research • Engage • Ask • Love), the book helps readers raise more money by building genuine relationships.
Who is this book for?
This book is designed for nonprofit fundraisers, development professionals, executive directors, board members, and volunteers who want to make effective asks—even if they’ve never done it before. It’s especially helpful for those who are nervous about asking for money.
What does “R.E.A.L.” stand for?
The R.E.A.L.™ acronym stands for Research, Engage, Ask, and Love. It’s a simple framework that helps fundraisers prepare thoroughly, connect authentically, ask clearly, and steward donors meaningfully.
Is this only for professional fundraisers?
Not at all. Ask Without Fear!® is written in plain English, with stories, scripts, and real-world tips that are just as useful for board members, volunteers, pastors, and entrepreneurs as they are for development staff.
Does the book include scripts or sample language?
Yes! The book includes sample phrases, conversation starters, and email examples fundraisers can adapt immediately to their work.
Is this a religious or faith-based fundraising book?
No. While Marc A. Pitman has coached many faith-based organizations, the content of Ask Without Fear!® is secular and broadly applicable across nonprofit sectors.
How is this different from other fundraising books?
Most fundraising books are either overly technical or philosophically abstract. Ask Without Fear!® is both strategic and practical—an easy-to-read, step-by-step roadmap that empowers even reluctant fundraisers to succeed.
How long is the book? Can I finish it quickly?
Yes. The book is intentionally short and readable—under 100 pages—so that busy nonprofit leaders can absorb and apply its lessons in an afternoon or over a weekend.
Can this book be used for staff or board training?
Absolutely. Many organizations use Ask Without Fear!® as the foundation for fundraising retreats, onboarding, and board development workshops. Discussion guides and video resources are also available.
Where can readers learn more or book Marc for a training?
Readers can visit fundraisingcoach.com to access resources, download tools, or inquire about training, consulting, and keynote speaking.