The short answer is simple: a Mega Gift is a gift that is both consequential and transformational—for the donor and the organization alike.
Yes, you’ve probably heard that before. Perhaps a dozen times, or maybe a hundred. But when it comes to Mega Gifts, we as fundraisers need to take that definition a step or two—or even five—further.
Step #2:
Programs that could attract Mega Gifts
How do I evaluate if my organization has programs that could attract Mega Gifts?
That’s a BIG question—and it’s critical. In my view, the most essential part of securing a Mega Gift is initiating the Mega Gift discussion itself. And the reality is, if you don’t have the right programs or projects that naturally attract these types of transformative gifts, then you’ll never get the chance to start that conversation.
Step #3:
Collaborate with the rest of my organization
How can I collaborate with the rest of my organization to develop or enhance programs that could attract Mega Gifts?
That’s a BIG question—and it’s critical. In my view, the most essential part of securing a Mega Gift is initiating the Mega Gift discussion itself. And the reality is, if you don’t have the right programs or projects that naturally attract these types of transformative gifts, then you’ll never get the chance to start that conversation.
Step #4:
How Do I Prioritize Donor Prospects Who Might Be Open to a Mega Gift?
How do I prioritize donor prospects who might be open to a Mega Gift? How should I qualify donors?
he best prospects for a Mega Gift are the people who get excited about solving BIG problems. It’s that straightforward. We don’t need to overcomplicate the process by creating endless criteria and checklists. Instead, let’s keep it simple: start with the donors who have a genuine desire to make a massive, transformational impact.
Step #5:
Journeys for Individual Donors Who Might Consider a Mega Gift?
How do I create "journeys" for individual donors who might consider a Mega Gift?
The concept of a “donor journey” represents the complete path an organization and a donor travel together. In the context of Mega Gifts, this journey begins with your current relationship and continues through to the moment the donor decides to say “Yes” to your proposal. But make no mistake: this journey requires time, trust, and a shared commitment to tackling big problems.
Step #6:
The Importance of Due Diligence with Your Donor
The Importance of Due Diligence with Your Donor
Now, we’re at a critical juncture: due diligence. Just as an oak tree needs the right conditions to produce a bumper crop of acorns, you need to ensure the conditions are right before introducing a mega gift concept to your donor.
Step #7:
How Do I Initiate a Mega Gift Conversation with the Donor?
How Do I Initiate a Mega Gift Conversation with the Donor?
First impressions are crucial. Research supports that the initial encounter tends to leave a lasting impact, often shaping the entire relationship.
Steps 8-10
You’ve Made the Ask – Now Answer, “Why Now?”
You’ve Made the Ask – Now Answer, “Why Now?”
When you ask a prospective supporter for a contribution, one of the most common and reasonable questions you might face is, “Why now?” Tom Ahern, a leading expert in fundraising communications, suggests that a powerful response to this question might be, “If we don’t do it now, bad things will continue to happen.”
Step #11:
The Power of the Office Visit
The Power of the Office Visit
Imagine inviting your donor, their family, and their advisors to your office for a full day dedicated to co-creating a strategy to tackle a significant problem.
Step 11-13
Urgency and Momentum: A Fundraiser’s Two Best Friends
Urgency and Momentum: A Fundraiser’s Two Best Friends
After weeks of planning, you’ve co-created a proposal with your donor. You’ve identified a big problem and crafted a compelling solution. Now it’s time to make the ask.
Steps 11-14
Co-Creating Success: The Key to Mega Gift Fundraising
Co-Creating Success: The Key to Mega Gift Fundraising
Co-creating a mega gift with a donor is about more than just submitting a plan and hoping for the best. It’s about collaborating closely with your donor to develop a strategy that aligns with both their vision and your organization’s mission.
Steps 14
And if the gift is made, how do I steward this gift over the long term?
And if the gift is made, how do I steward this gift over the long term?
Mega Gifts are game-changers. They aren’t just substantial financial contributions; they are defining commitments, often among the most consequential decisions a donor will make in their life. These gifts carry weight across every aspect of a donor’s legacy—alongside family, faith, career, and alma mater.
