Staffing a Capital Campaign: What You Need to Know
The planning phase for most campaigns is 2 to 3 years, and there’s no shame in taking even longer. Taking the near-term pressure off is very helpful to clear thinking.
Read MorePreparing for a Successful Capital Campaign
In this post, I cover one of the three most important considerations the leadership of any group pondering a capital campaign should place front and center: Investment funding available for the campaign activity.
Read MoreFundraising in the Nonprofit CEO’s Job Description
I’m often asked: Once an ED hires an experienced development director, can’t the ED do less fundraising? The answer is yes, if you are referring to planning, organizing, and guiding other staff in fundraising programs and activities. But the answer is no, if you are referring to the time spent in total fundraising activity by the ED.
Read MorePART 2 — BOARD MEMBERS CAN ASK FOR BIG GIFTS!
Sometimes asking for a higher number than the donor had in mind can result in a bigger gift than they would have given otherwise, even if it’s not as high as you asked. You may never know this, but occasionally they will tell you after the fact. That’s a wonderful feeling - you helped them stretch!
Read MoreAsking for a Big Gift from an Individual or Couple
Board Members need to understand how to ask a donor for a significant gift. This is true even if they are relying on their staff teammate to be the designated asker. How can these solicitations for significant gifts go smoothly and with great results?
Read MoreListening – REALLY listening – to your donors
Sometimes feeling nervous makes us talk too much, or we might clam up. How can we focus AWAY from the nervousness, and TOWARDS the donor and what she or he would like to discuss, specifically about their regard for your group’s work?
Read MoreBoard Member as Fundraiser (Part 2)
As a board member or a campaign volunteer, you can participate powerfully in meetings with donor prospects if you are willing and able to convey why you are enthusiastic about the work of this group. The key is to tell your story in a way that is genuinely YOU.
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