Success in getting major gifts usually comes down to … getting a major gift.
That’s the short form, but success with major gifts usually requires a lot of time and effort, and success isn’t always easy to measure right away.

Pearl F. Veenema of Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation offered a look at major gifts during the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy 43rd International Conference.

She reminded the audience that major donors need to be assured that they are making an investment and that bringing them closer to making that investment involves knowing something about them, understanding their motivations and determining their “rights”: the right project, the right gift level, the right asker (think “natural partners”), the right recognition and the right timing.

Regarding the big moment of the ask, Veenema said you know all is well if:

• You are nervous;
• You practiced out loud;
• You can discuss how much money is needed, why it is needed and why your organization should receive it;
• You can answer tough questions, like “Why me?” and “What did you give?;”
• You remember to ask for the gift; and,
• You know your next best steps.

Share this story

Story tools