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.
Ask a capital campaign expert: Can an inexperienced board achieve capital campaign success? Our advice: Take deep breath and follow the process. Capital campaigns find success by following a specific and very common process. A vital part of that process is recruiting committee members who can expand your reach to potential donors with whom you are not yet connected.
Libraries often face unique challenges when it comes to raising funds for new facilities. Funding the gap between public dollars and the full cost of your building project will likely have you considering a library capital campaign. Let’s explore the specific challenges faced by libraries during capital campaigns and how a bond election might impact a campaign.
