Thank you to every CFRE who took the time to share their feedback via the 2021 CFRE Certificant Survey.

The world has changed much since we last ran it in 2018. Even in the midst of the pandemic, 89% of respondents reported their CFRE provided enhanced professional opportunities and 92% said the certification increased their on-the-job confidence. As a result of holding their CFRE, 94% are enjoying enhanced recognition from colleagues.

The number one way CFREs first heard of the certification was via a professional association membership (51%), followed by from a colleague (32%).

Interestingly enough, in 2018, 51% of CFREs stated their employer contributed to part or all of the cost of their CFRE initial certification. This year, that number lifted slightly to 54%. When it came to recertification, 43% of participants’ employers paid in 2021 vs. 45% in 2018.

For the first time we asked, “Has the pandemic impacted how your employer supports your CFRE certification?” Eighty percent of respondents noted no change, while 2% said their employer started paying for certification and 6% had employers who stopped paying. The remainder of respondents were either self-employed or unemployed.

When asked “How likely are you to recommend CFRE certification to a colleague or friend in the fundraising profession?” nearly 91% stated they were likely to recommend it.

We received feedback there is room to grow CFRE’s profile with employers and CFREs are seeking meaningful professional development opportunities to earn their continuing education points. Respondents provided insight into other areas where we can improve the CFRE process while further raising the certification’s profile. Our team is taking this on board, using it to formulate our strategies in 2022 and beyond.

As always, if you have feedback or ideas about the CFRE, we welcome you to contact us at share@cfre.org.