
Case Studies
Solution
E3N Strategies developed a tailored plan to address Meyers’ lack of fundraising experience and the historically low levels of Democratic donor engagement in the district. The approach began with identifying grassroots Democratic donors using advanced data analytics to pinpoint individuals likely to resonate with Meyers’ platform and progressive values. By building a network of small-dollar contributors, the campaign established a solid base of financial support.
To overcome Meyers’ inexperience with solicitation, E3N Strategies provided intensive call-time training. This training focused on building his confidence, teaching him how to craft a compelling pitch, and equipping him with the tools to handle objections and secure contributions. E3N Strategies also ensured the campaign fully leveraged New York State’s public matching funds program, which provided a match on small-dollar contributions. This required meticulous planning to prioritize contributions under $250, allowing the campaign to maximize the impact of grassroots fundraising efforts.
Results
The results of this strategic approach were transformative. James Meyers’ campaign raised over $375,000, a groundbreaking achievement for Democrats in a district with such a bleak fundraising history. Through targeted grassroots outreach, the campaign secured hundreds of small-dollar donors, creating a robust financial foundation. By successfully maxing out the public matching funds program, the campaign unlocked substantial additional resources that were funneled into media and voter outreach initiatives.
With these funds, the Meyers campaign was able to invest in critical media strategies, including digital advertising, mailers, and grassroots mobilization, which significantly elevated Democratic visibility in the district. For the first time in decades, Democrats ran a well-funded, competitive campaign, re-engaging voters and demonstrating that the 53rd District was not beyond their reach.
James Meyers’ Campaign for New York State Senate, 53rd District
Problem
James Meyers faced significant challenges as a first-time candidate running for New York's 53rd Senate District. The seat had not seen a Democratic contender in nearly 20 years, and the district’s fundraising history painted a bleak picture with Democratic candidates having never raised more than $2,000. Compounding the issue, Meyers had no experience in fundraising or solicitation, leaving him unprepared to generate the financial resources necessary to compete. Without a clear strategy or training, the campaign risked falling into the same cycle of underfunding that had historically plagued Democratic efforts in the district.