While average donors are giving more generously than they did during the recession, charities continue to set their sights on the wealthy. With more competition for big contributors, fundraisers need to foster strong relationships with those who have the power to donate large amounts of money.
The definition of a “major gift” or a “big donor” depends on the size and budget of your organization. The biggest gifts tend to go to educational and health institutions—but smaller nonprofits should still make time to forge ties with people who can make significant contributions.
Whether you’re talking about donations of $1,000 or $100,000, securing these gifts requires planning and patience. In return, the gifts can provide nonprofits with multiyear support for programs and capital projects. So the investment of time it takes to secure a big gift is worthwhile—no matter the size of your organization.
Below are links to resources from The Chronicle that will help you get the most from your biggest donors.
-
AdviceUse Meetings With Wealthy Donors to Build Connections
Nonprofit leaders and major-gift fundraisers offer tips for using face-to-face contact to strengthen ties with big donors. -
Advice
The Basics of Meeting with Big Donors
Veteran fundraisers and consultants offer their advice on what to do, when, and where. -
Advice
5 Things to Do Before Your First Meeting With a Major-Gift Prospect
A checklist of how to prepare for that important first appointment. -
Advice
5 Things to Do After a First Meeting with a Major-Gift Prospect
Here’s a checklist of your next steps. -
Advice
Advice: Why You Should Never Rush a Donor
A major-gift fundraiser shares two lessons he learned about asking for a donation too soon. -
Advice
Amnesty International USA’s Campaign Pledge Form
The form allows donors to pledge endowment gifts and annual support at the same time. -
Advice
A Sample Gift Agreement From the University of Texas at Austin
The university tries to limit the number of times donors have to sign their name, and prefers to make the signing an in-person event. -
Advice
An Acknowledgement Letter for a Gift of Stock
A Better Chance, an education charity, uses a version of this letter to thank donors who give stock.
