Introduction: When it comes to fundraising, there’s a huge leap from asking for $5,000 to asking for $5,000,000—or even more. It’s enough to make any fundraiser gulp, but those mega gifts are often what can truly transform an organization’s impact. Last week, we started a new series on Going Big! with Mega Gift fundraising solicitations. This week, we’ll delve into a critical aspect of this process: collaborating within your organization to develop or enhance programs that could attract those game-changing gifts.
Why Collaboration is Key
Collaboration might seem like a slower, more cumbersome process than going it alone, but it’s essential for crafting the best possible mega gift ask. As Mike Lanzara, a seasoned major gifts officer, points out, “You’ll get a much better product through collaboration.” By tapping into the knowledge and perspectives of colleagues across your organization, you create a proposal that is more robust, credible, and attractive to prospective donors.
The Cost of Going Solo
Choosing not to collaborate can have significant downsides. You may leave unrealized value on the table, both for your organization and for the donor. When donors perceive that you aren’t bringing credible solutions to big, bold problems, they may take their support elsewhere. This doesn’t just cost you a current gift; it can damage your long-term relationship with the donor, making it harder to secure mega gifts in the future.
Steps to Effective Collaboration
Mike suggests a straightforward approach to collaboration that doesn’t burden your colleagues with additional tasks. Instead, you’re seeking their insights:
- Ask colleagues how they would improve a program or tackle a new initiative if funding weren’t a constraint.
- Inquire who else might have valuable input on enhancing a specific program.
- Encourage contributions without asking for formal reports or presentations, focusing on gathering diverse perspectives.
This method ensures that everyone feels invested in the final product, which makes the eventual proposal stronger and more compelling to donors.
A Real-World Example: The Phoenix
The Phoenix, an organization founded by Scott Strode to tackle addiction in America, serves as an excellent example of the power of collaboration. By leveraging the knowledge and experience of their entire team, The Phoenix developed a plan that expanded their reach from serving 18,000 people in 7 locations to 280,000 people across all 50 states. Their goal? To reach one million people within the next few years and, eventually, transform how the country addresses addiction.
Conclusion: The Power of a Collective Vision
Collaboration isn’t just about gathering opinions; it’s about creating a shared vision that everyone is invested in. When you approach a donor with a well-crafted, collective vision, the potential for impact is enormous. This approach not only strengthens your ask but also positions your organization as a credible, innovative leader in your field.
