What is a Capital Campaign?

A capital campaign is a fundraising effort set up for a project over a specific period of time. A capital campaign project is usually reserved for a brick and mortar project, such as an expansion or construction of a new building. Often, capital campaigns use tactics like fundraising meters or thermometer fundraising to track and show progress toward the particular goal.

Setting up a capital campaign

There is a lot of behind the scenes work but can drive major donors to your organization. According to Rainmaking: The Fundraiser’s Guide to landing Major Gifts, capital campaign donors “come from outside the donor base”. Further, Rainmaking explains new major donors can be driven to give to a capital campaign because of the allure of leaving a legacy such as naming a room or building.

Fundraiser Planning

Along with having an available budget for a capital campaign, you need to keep in mind the other resources that will be required to successfully complete a campaign. Look at the financial stability of your organization and the abilities of your staff. There first gifting phase of a capital campaign that you need to keep in mind is sometimes known as the quiet phase. The Quiet Phase is where you drum up support from those who will give the largest gifts to the campaign. It is essential to have these Leadership Gifts prospects in mind before you decide to embark on a capital campaign.

Fundraising Thermometer

Deciding to run a capital campaign can be an excellent way to raise significant funds for an important project and drum up interest in your organization from new donors. Using the fundraising thermometer to track progress to your goal can excite donors who have already given. This can also pique the interest of those who have no given to help reach the specific goal.

Creating a detailed plan for your capital campaign can lead to success from start to finish and ultimately use your organizations resources most effectively, however it can be a heavy lift for an organization. Decide if a capital campaign is right for your organization by carefully reviewing the steps required to complete the project.    

Want to learn more about managing your fundraising efforts with a nonprofit CRM? Schedule a Julep demo today!