All in Donors
Capital campaign fundraising is more than just asking for money, it’s about understanding people. At its core, successful fundraising blends the science of strategy with the art of human connection. Whether you're preparing for a major gift solicitation or building long-term donor relationships, knowing why people give and how to inspire them is essential.
If you’ve ever flinched at the idea of using another organization’s public donor list to inspire your own capital campaign prospecting, you’re not alone. The hesitation is real—especially in tight-knit communities where nonprofits often collaborate, share board members, and even support each other’s campaigns. Here’s how to navigate this delicate issue with clarity, confidence, and class.
Ask the Expert: Why do we have to wait to take our capital campaign public? In the capital campaign world, the best time to begin your public phase is after you have reached 90%-95% of your total goal through personal solicitations. Going public too soon can cost you major gifts.
AI is tool that can help us as fundraisers, but what we do to raise major gifts and capital campaign donations is personal. All the data points in the world are no substitute for saddling up and perfecting our “anatomical influence.”
When handled with care, stewardship after a capital campaign becomes a powerful tool for growth. It ensures that the tremendous trust and generosity shown by your donors during a campaign continue to drive your mission forward for years to come. Here’s how to approach it for best results.
If you hire a consultant to help plan and manage your campaign, that person should prepare and train you and your committee members to make professional and successful capital campaign solicitations. We’ve had the honor to see nonprofit leaders with the right direction and training raise millions more than they ever thought possible. Take a look at our process for preparing them.
