Capacity matters in fundraising. That might be the most obvious thing for any fundraiser. People will give what they're capable of giving. But time and time again, organizations I work with talk about having trouble filling their major gift pipeline, upgrading donors over time, or making any headway with lapsed [...]
Soliciting new donors, much like growing your major gifts portfolios and upgrading mid-level donors to give more, should also start with those you already know. Prospects can be hiding in plain sight. It is after you’ve culled through your existing list that you should, then, utilize proven strategies to find [...]
If you are a regular reader of this blog or any fundraising blog for that matter, the subject of “Major Gifts” is one of the most common. From researching the best prospects to building the relationship to making the “Ask," major gift actions are explored from every angle. However, two [...]
Data is essential for successful fundraising, especially when it comes to raising major gifts. That's why I developed a super comprehensive survey to study the current trends and opportunities in major gift fundraising -- but I need your help! You can help by simply completing the online survey. It should [...]
Today we continue with a 3-part series about the most cost-effective way to fundraise -- major gifts from individuals. In Part 1 we covered the basics, including why major gifts are so important and how to identify your best prospects. In Part 2 we covered the important process to qualify [...]
Today we continue with a 3-part series about the most cost-effective way to fundraise -- major gifts from individuals. In Part 1 we covered the basics, including the reason you really should do this. Why? Because studies show over 88% of all funds raised come from just 12% of donors. [...]
Today we begin with a 3-part series about the most cost-effective way to fundraise -- Major gifts from individuals. Not foundations. Not businesses. Not events. Studies show over 88% of all funds raised come from just 12% of donors. You get a huge bang for your buck from an individual major gifts program [...]
One might think that gift range charts are just for large projects such as capital campaigns or for significant fundraising efforts. And, while, yes, there is some truth to that, gift range charts can be used effectively in even the smallest of fundraising shops. A gift range chart will tell you [...]
You’ve heard it from a multitude of sources: fundraising success depends on contact with donors. Picking up the phone, scheduling the appointment, then having a meaningful visit all matter. But what about after the contact has been made? What information did we learn that matters with regard to moving the [...]
All of us know that fundraising is about building relationships – and relationships aren’t built easily. […]
Think of the last time you had a poor customer service experience. Perhaps it was at the grocery store, at an airport, or in a telephone conversation. Recall your frustration in trying to have your concerns heard, then acted upon to your satisfaction. Get back into that mental state of [...]
Our data tells us that you must have a minimum of two personal contacts per year with each of your major donors if you plan to keep them engaged and giving at higher and higher levels. Here are my top five suggestions for the most personal and effective contacts: [...]