Let’s ban the title Newsletters – all in favor?
The one best tip I have for nonprofit newsletters - stop calling them newsletters. I am of the mind that this title creates a great deal of confusion both for the nonprofit and the donor.Why?First, donors are like investors. They are giving…
What is cultivation really about?
Cultivate, cultivate, cultivate. The way we talk about donors sometimes makes me think that we are in relationships. And, in a sense, I guess we are.Cultivation, what is it?Well for one, it's about learning more about a donor and his or…
The importance of gift range charts to major giving
There are two things that you need to consider when developing a major gift strategy. The first is deciding on what level of gift you want to solicit in person, and the second is prioritizing the list of prospects from the screening process…
How to qualify major gift prospects
The world is full of prospects. Now who to see first. Well, those that are most likely to make an individual donation.Without a crystal ball, how do you even begin to determine those most likely to make a donation?Well, first you look at…
Are you wishing on a capital campaign?
Oh no! We need a new building. The offer letter is on the table.What now? We need money!But wait, we haven't done any fundraising in the past. We need millions tomorrow to move into our new facility and to make all the necessary upgrades.…
Are you asking for money? Or inviting investors in your nonprofit organization?
What is the old saying, "You say it 'potato' and I say it is ..."Unfortunately, when it comes to donors, I don't think you can splice words.Are we asking for money? Asking for support?Or are we thinking about this relationship differently…
Your nonprofit board members role in a capital campaign
Board Member Roles and Responsibilities During a Capital CampaignIn a capital campaign board members should make the organization a priority through:Reviewing their philanthropic priorities and committing to make a "stretch" gift to the…
Don’t skimp on the capital campaign planning
Not sure about your experiences with capital campaigns but they are highly technical with lots of moving pieces.Oftentimes, groups want to skimp on the planning stages. For instance, they want to jump right into campaign mode without…
Major gifts in your small fundraising shop??? Lessons from the “Big Boys!”
Just because your not a large fundraising shop, doesn't mean that you can't raise major gifts like the "big boys."I assert that you can and even better!And, I even offer a free e-course on how to do it...One of the first things that small…
Identifying new potential donor prospects for fundraising
As a consultant, I get asked this question all the time. How do I find new donors for my fundraising efforts?Well, let me offer a few easy and cost-effective steps that don't require you to purchase or rent costly donor lists for your fund…
