Making the Ask Workshop, May 2025-Slides

Slides

Pdf Summary

The document outlines a presentation by David Smith on effectively soliciting and closing leadership gifts, specifically in the educational sector. David Smith, an experienced professional in advancement and development roles at various schools, provides a comprehensive overview of successful fundraising strategies within the context of leadership giving.<br /><br />The presentation discusses the importance of leadership gifts, which are categorized as major, anchor, and transformational gifts, emphasizing their critical role in capital campaigns and institutional growth. Key statistics highlight the landscape of philanthropic giving in the U.S., noting that significant funds are sourced from individuals, foundations, and bequests. Private foundations and donor-advised funds also hold substantial assets, underlining the potential for tapping into these resources.<br /><br />The donor relationship cycle is central to the presentation, detailing steps from stewardship and cultivation to making the solicitation ask and recognizing donor generosity. The cycle includes maintaining open communication with stakeholders, outlining institutional goals, and aligning these with donor interests.<br /><br />Preparation for asking involves strategic planning, including selecting the right solicitation team, role-playing scenarios, and preparing solicitation scripts. An emphasis is placed on the psychological aspects of fundraising, like overcoming fear and discomfort associated with asking for money, which can be mitigated through thorough preparation and understanding that fundraising is fundamentally about supporting missions.<br /><br />The document also stresses the use of a "table of gifts" to visualize and organize fundraising objectives, ensuring clarity on levels of gifts needed and prospects required. Finally, fundamental questions during the solicitation process are encouraged to ensure effective donor relationships and successful outcomes.

Keywords

David Smith

leadership gifts

fundraising strategies

educational sector

capital campaigns

donor relationship cycle

solicitation planning

philanthropic giving

table of gifts

donor recognition