Here’s the thing about capital campaigns: You have one chance to get it right. There are no do-overs! If you launch a campaign and it does not go well, it will be years before you can build the momentum to try again…people in the organization will say, “We tried that before and it didn’t work”! For this reason alone, you need to consider working with a professional capital campaign firm.
If you need to raise more than 1X your annual budget, consider these 7 reasons for partnering with a qualified capital campaign consultant to lead you through the process.
- You will raise more funds when using an experienced consultant familiar with your sector (church, nonprofit, independent school, etc.) Results vary, but compared to home-grown campaigns, professionally managed campaigns can raise 100% to 300%, or more, in gifts and commitments.
- The decision to make a commitment is a complex one. Often, volunteers and nonprofessionals leave out critical steps in leading donors (especially major donors who might give 50%, or more, of the funds needed) through the decision to make a significant commitment. A professional who has been through this hundreds of times knows how to cultivate and “ask” for gifts and attends to the details in the process. Missing out on major gifts can make or break a campaign.
- A good consultant develops a comprehensive step-by-step plan based on many other successful campaigns. To just go out and start asking for money will not be successful. Your consultant knows the steps and will make sure the process flows according to plans.
- Partnering with a consultant to manage your campaign means there will be much less of a chance of an Executive Director, Pastor, or volunteer from burning out. Your organization’s leaders have responsibilities that need to be attended to and cannot afford to let a campaign consume them.
- A consultant will help you craft critical campaign messages. Most importantly, they will develop a compelling case for support that effectively communicates the project’s importance, impact, and benefits.
- A trusted advisor can often walk their clients off the ledge, help them solve thorny challenges, and work through unexpected issues that arise. More than likely, your consultant will have experienced your “road bumps” before.
- Finally, your consultant will establish accountability. An advisor will help keep everyone on the same page and accountable to do the things they said they would do.
Bottom Line: Capital campaign consultants can help your church or nonprofit maximize it fundraising potential, and achieve transformational goals!
John V. Clark, President/Partner
The James Company
Phone: (815) 353-8997
Email: jclark@jamescompany.com
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