Major Gifts and Campaign Fundraising: Strategic Recommendations from Our Founder
Every nonprofit needs a well-thought-out strategy for cultivating and soliciting major gifts. And, when the time is right, a capital, endowment or comprehensive campaign can bring attention to new initiatives and re-engage donors.
Peter Heller, Founder of the Heller Fundraising Group, has played a role in countless fundraising strategies throughout his career. He knows what works and when it’s time to rethink your approach.
Here, he shares a few timeless recommendations for every step of your campaign and how to maximize the health of your major gift program.
Feb. 12, 2025: Capital Campaign vs. Major Gift Program
Targeted campaigns and major gift programs play an important role in your organization’s fundraising—but how do you know which one is right for the moment? And how can you leverage both for a truly integrated fundraising strategy?
Feb. 20, 2020: Is Your Feasibility Terrible?
When done right, feasibility studies are a useful tool that can set your organization up for a transformative campaign. Peter outlines the Heller Group’s guiding principles for a successful study—and the warning signs that you might not be ready (yet).
Nov. 9, 2018: Avoiding Capital Campaign Mistakes
In an article originally published in Philanthropy Journal, Peter shares three common mistakes nonprofits make when beginning a capital campaign: failing to tell the story, getting too attached to a plan, and waiting to engage stakeholders in the process.
April 23, 2024: Ten Steps to Your Major Gift Checklist
Significant donations from passionate donors can supercharge your organization’s financial stability. Peter shares 10 tips for making major gifts a key part of your fundraising strategy.
Jan. 25, 2022: The Secret to Major Gift Success
Is being loved by your donors a good thing? Maybe—but only if you follow through with this one crucial step.
These stories prove that the success of your fundraising strategy often hinges on thoughtful planning, even when that means slowing things down.
If your fundraising strategy could use an update with some time-tested advice, Peter and the rest of the Heller Group team are here to help. Let’s talk in a free strategy session.