Effective university fundraising requires strategic donor engagement and teamwork. Use these tips to create a stronger fundraising and marketing approach.

Across sectors—from higher education to healthcare to mission-driven nonprofits—leaders are looking for ways to close the growing revenue gaps. In a world of mounting complexity and volatility, resilience is no longer a luxury; it’s a strategic imperative. That’s why many organizations are shifting their mindset around philanthropy: from supplementary income to a core pillar of long-term financial health.

At the outbreak of COVID-19 in March of 2020, fundraising teams were confronted with empty offices and a sudden shift to Zoom meetings. Gift officers who had only ever met with donors face-to-face had to quickly transition their relationship building and solicitation to a video screen or phone. By 2024, it seemed hybrid working environments were here to stay. However, this new normal hadn’t been studied for its impact on fundraising. We decided to change that.

A successful campaign requires many factors, but one of the most critical is maintaining positive momentum from start to finish. In this article, we focus on laying the groundwork for building a strong foundation in the campaign planning stage and building momentum with invested staff, organizational leadership, board members, and key donors.

A fundraising feasibility study is the essential first step in capital campaign planning. Use this guide to conduct an informative study to guide your plans.

What are comprehensive campaigns, and how are they different from capital campaigns? Explore key differences and pros and cons of these campaign types.

The work that Whitman College and BWF have done together over the past five years has been designed to improve efficiencies and effectiveness, strengthen ROI and impact, and move the organization forward and upward. Ensuring that the team has all the tools and resources it needs—and is leveraging them for greater success—has been a years long effort that culminated recently in the launch of the largest campaign in the College’s history.

While many hands contribute to the success of fundraising, one pivotal group often stands out—the board of directors or similar fiduciaries of the nonprofit. While most do not have a professional fundraising background or even a natural bent toward asking for gifts, all can play key roles which will have a significantly positive influence on supporting the mission and growing impact. This article dives into different ways your board can be your biggest advocates in fundraising.

Selecting and engaging campaign volunteers must be an intentional effort, one requiring strategy, commitment, and an understanding that the long view reaps the best rewards. Here are seven ways to get the right volunteer leaders onboard.