Securing major donors is one of the most effective ways to create lasting financial sustainability for your nonprofit. Yet, many organizations struggle to know where to begin. In this webinar, fundraising experts shared actionable strategies to help you build and maintain a strong major donor portfolio.
Major donors provide the kind of transformational gifts that fuel long-term impact. Unlike smaller donations that may fluctuate, major gifts offer stability and allow nonprofits to plan for bigger initiatives. Building these relationships takes intention, structure, and consistent follow-up.
Every nonprofit is different. For some, a major gift might be $1,000; for others, it could be $100,000. Start by defining what “major” means for your organization based on past giving patterns and your donor base. This clarity ensures you focus your energy on the right prospects.
Finding the right donors requires data and curiosity. Look at your current donor database for individuals who:
Give consistently at higher-than-average levels
Have capacity indicators (real estate, business ownership, philanthropy patterns)
Engage with your mission regularly (attend events, volunteer, or open your emails often)
Don’t rely only on wealth screening—focus on both capacity and affinity.
Major gifts don’t happen overnight. Develop a system for tracking touchpoints with each prospect: emails, calls, meetings, and event attendance. The goal is to move donors through a pipeline—awareness → interest → engagement → commitment.
👉 Tip: Use a simple CRM or even a spreadsheet to start if your budget is limited. The important part is consistency.
Personalization builds trust. This could mean inviting a donor to coffee to discuss shared values, sending a handwritten thank-you note, or inviting them to see your programs in action. The more authentic and mission-driven your interactions, the stronger the relationship will grow.
When the time is right, don’t shy away from making the ask. Use clear language that connects the donor’s passion with your organization’s mission. Frame the gift as an opportunity to create lasting impact.
💡 Example: “Your gift of $25,000 would provide scholarships for 50 students next year, opening doors to education that would otherwise be closed.”
Securing a major gift is only the beginning. Ongoing stewardship ensures your donor feels valued and continues their support. Regular updates, invitations to special events, and recognition (when appropriate) are all vital.
Building a major donor portfolio isn’t about luck—it’s about strategy, consistency, and genuine connection. By defining what a major gift means for your organization, identifying the right prospects, and investing in personalized engagement, your nonprofit can create stronger, more sustainable fundraising success.
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