All About Capital Campaigns: Nonprofits, Fundraising, Major Gifts, Toolkit: Recent Episodes

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, co-founder Andrea Kihlstedt is joined by senior advisor Jeff Hensley to discuss what to do when leadership shifts in the middle of a capital campaign. From sudden retirements and staff departures to unexpected crises, they share practical ways to keep your campaign moving forward while maintaining confidence among staff, donors, and your board.

Jeff explains why leadership changes are more common than many organizations anticipate—especially in campaigns that stretch across several years—and how to handle them with calm and clarity. He offers insight into the different types of transitions that can occur, from planned retirements to terminations, and how each one affects campaign momentum.

Andrea and Jeff emphasize the importance of transparent communication, both internally and externally. They explore how organizations can reduce anxiety among staff, prevent rumors from spreading, and reinforce confidence by providing clear, consistent updates. For donors, they outline best practices for personalized outreach that shows respect, preserves trust, and reassures them that the mission and impact they care about remain strong.

Listeners will learn:

• How to respond quickly and thoughtfully when key leaders or staff members leave mid-campaign
• The role of the board and executive team in maintaining stability and direction
• When it’s appropriate to pause a campaign—and how to communicate that decision effectively
• Strategies to reassure donors and strengthen relationships during times of change
• How transitions can become opportunities for growth, leadership development, and renewed focus on mission

Jeff also shares encouraging stories of organizations that have come through leadership transitions stronger than before. His calm, grounded perspective provides reassurance for anyone feeling uncertain about managing staff or leadership turnover during a campaign.

Whether your organization is facing a sudden departure, hiring a new leader, or simply preparing for the unexpected, this episode offers practical, experience-based advice for staying steady, maintaining donor confidence, and turning disruption into opportunity.

To connect with a Capital Campaign Pro expert for guidance through your own leadership or campaign challenges, visit capitalcampaignpro.com.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein sits down with Alonda Williams, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound, to talk about how artificial intelligence is transforming nonprofit leadership, operations, and impact. With a background in technology at companies like Microsoft, Qualcomm, and Verizon, Alonda brings a unique perspective to the nonprofit sector and shares how she integrates AI into her leadership and organizational culture.

Alonda discusses how AI helps her team increase productivity, streamline workflows, and expand their reach without additional resources. From meeting summarization and automated board reports to matching mentors and mentees faster, she explains how these tools save time while maintaining the human-centered approach that nonprofit work requires.

You’ll hear how she empowers her staff to adopt AI by modeling its use, creating safe spaces for experimentation, and even including AI literacy as a desired skill in job descriptions. She explains why adopting AI is not just about improving organizational efficiency but also about preparing staff and youth to be future-ready in a digital-first economy.

Amy and Alonda also explore practical applications that any nonprofit leader can try today, including AI-assisted hiring practices, productivity tools like Microsoft Copilot, and meeting assistants like Assembly. Alonda shares candid insights on what has worked, what hasn’t, and how to build trust among staff who may be hesitant to embrace technology.

Key takeaways from this episode include:

• Why AI creates new opportunities for nonprofits with limited resources
• How leaders can encourage teams to adopt AI responsibly and confidently
• Practical tools and use cases that save time and increase accuracy
• Ways AI reduces bias in decision-making, from staff recruitment to mentoring matches
• Why paid, enterprise-grade AI tools are essential for protecting sensitive data

Whether you’re curious about how AI can support your next board report, wondering how to introduce AI to your team, or looking for inspiration on how to apply it to your mission, this conversation offers practical, real-world insights from a leader who is already putting these tools to work.

Learn how AI can help your nonprofit save time, amplify its impact, and prepare both staff and the communities you serve for the future.

Are your Systems and technology ready for a Capital Campaign? Be sure to download our free self-assessment tool to evaluate eight key aspects of your organization’s systems.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt outline three essential steps that nonprofit leaders should take to prepare their boards for a capital campaign. Many board members come to the table with limited or inaccurate ideas about what a campaign involves. Amy and Andrea explain how to bridge that knowledge gap, address common anxieties, and set clear expectations so that your board feels confident and prepared to support your campaign.

The conversation begins with the importance of a Campaign 101 session. Board members need a clear understanding of what a capital campaign is, how it works, and what makes it different from annual fundraising. Amy and Andrea share simple ways to introduce these fundamentals, from inviting a consultant to lead a workshop to using Capital Campaign Pro’s Board Members Guide to Capital Campaigns as a discussion tool.

Next, the hosts highlight the importance of clarifying board roles and giving expectations. They talk about how to create space for meaningful conversations about what each board member will contribute, both in terms of financial support and active involvement. These conversations help reduce uncertainty and ease fears about asking for gifts. Amy and Andrea emphasize that preparing your board is an ongoing process that should unfold over multiple meetings rather than a single session.

Finally, the episode covers the often-overlooked need for investment in campaign resources. Too often, organizations underestimate the financial and staffing requirements of a campaign, assuming existing staff can manage everything. Amy and Andrea explain why dedicating a budget for campaign support, whether through additional staff or experienced consultants, is critical to success. They illustrate how early investments in expertise and planning prevent costly mistakes and set campaigns on a strong trajectory.

Throughout the discussion, listeners will hear real examples from Amy and Andrea’s work with nonprofit leaders and boards, including common pitfalls that organizations face when they try to “go it alone.” The episode underscores that preparing your board is not a one-time task but a thoughtful process that builds confidence, clarity, and commitment.

Whether you’re a nonprofit executive, development professional, or board leader, this episode will provide practical insights you can use right away to prepare your board for the challenges and opportunities of a capital campaign.

For more board engagement tips, be sure to download our free Board Member’s Guide to Capital Campaign Fundraising. It answers the questions board members most frequently ask, or wish they could ask.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein welcomes nonprofit leader, coach, and advocate Joan Garry for an inspiring conversation about how development directors and nonprofit executives can maintain optimism, motivate their teams, and rethink what fundraising success looks like in challenging times.

Joan Garry is an internationally recognized champion for the nonprofit sector, an executive coach for top nonprofit leaders, founder of the Nonprofit Leadership Lab, and host of her own podcast and blog. With decades of experience across nearly every role in nonprofit leadership, she brings both practical strategies and heartfelt encouragement to the discussion.

Together, Amy and Joan explore how nonprofit professionals can reframe fundraising from a stressful numbers game into an opportunity for donors to feel connected, valued, and part of meaningful impact.

They discuss:

• Why development directors often struggle with discouragement when revenue sources shift
• How focusing solely on total dollars raised can create a harmful and unrealistic definition of success
• Alternative metrics to measure fundraising effectiveness, including donor retention rates, board engagement, and stewardship practices
• The importance of innovation and creativity in fundraising, with real-world examples of organizations trying bold approaches to meet urgent needs
• How leaders can support staff through professional development, peer learning, and community support to build confidence and resilience
• The role of board members in donor stewardship and why even simple gestures from board leaders can significantly strengthen relationships
• Practical steps for reconnecting with the mission, “touching the work,” and finding inspiration that replenishes energy for fundraisers and leaders alike

Listeners will hear stories ranging from a climate change think tank tapping into untapped expertise in Washington, to LGBTQ advocacy groups addressing urgent needs through imaginative funding models, to a legal nonprofit rethinking the concept of a capital campaign by focusing on “human capital.” These examples highlight what is possible when leaders are willing to experiment and redefine what success looks like.

Joan also shares advice on how nonprofit executives can manage fear, support their fundraising staff, and avoid the trap of holding onto poor performance because of the myth that strong development professionals are scarce. She emphasizes the importance of professional development and investment in fundraisers, noting that providing learning opportunities is a powerful way to strengthen skills and morale.

Amy and Joan both highlight the value of peer communities—whether through Capital Campaign Pro’s weekly mastermind groups or the Nonprofit Leadership Lab’s global membership network—where nonprofit leaders can share challenges, celebrate wins, and draw inspiration from one another.

Whether you are an executive director, development officer, or board member, this conversation will help you see fundraising in a new light. By focusing on relationships, creativity, and inspiration, nonprofit leaders can foster resilience and optimism in their organizations even when external challenges feel overwhelming.

For more free capital campaign resources, visit https://capitalcampaignpro.com/campaign-resources.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt tackle one of the most important and often misunderstood aspects of a successful capital campaign: creating and funding a campaign budget.

A capital campaign requires more than enthusiasm and a compelling case. It demands resources, staff support, and a financial plan that spans several years. Amy and Andrea explain why it is unrealistic for nonprofit leaders to think a campaign can succeed without investing in additional help, expertise, and infrastructure. They walk through the essential elements of a strong campaign budget and show how the campaign itself can raise the funds needed to cover these expenses.

Listeners will learn:

• Why capital campaigns are fundamentally different in scale from annual fundraising
• The types of staff support most organizations actually need (and why it’s not always a major gift officer)
• How to think about campaign consultants, feasibility studies, donor recognition, and events as part of the budget
• Examples of real campaign costs, from simple kickoff gatherings to large-scale celebrations
• How to address board concerns about “overhead” and gain approval for campaign expenses
• The widely accepted rule of thumb that campaign budgets average about 10% of the overall campaign goal—and why that percentage can vary based on project size

The conversation also covers practical tips for making budgeting conversations easier with boards and leadership teams. Andrea and Amy describe both the “top down” approach (starting with a percentage of the campaign goal) and the “bottom up” approach (listing specific anticipated expenses) to arrive at a realistic and effective campaign budget.

By the end of the discussion, nonprofit leaders will have a clear understanding of how to plan for campaign expenses, make the case for additional staff or consulting help, and use the campaign itself to fund these investments. Amy and Andrea also share success stories from organizations that shifted their thinking, gained board support, and found relief in knowing that their campaigns were properly resourced.

Whether your organization is preparing for a $3 million initiative or a $40 million project, this episode will give you a framework for understanding capital campaign budgets and the confidence to explain them to your team and board.

For more free capital campaign resources, visit https://capitalcampaignpro.com/campaign-resources.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Andrea Kihlstedt talks with Capital Campaign Pro senior advisor Dedee Wilner-Nugent about what to do when a capital campaign feels stalled. Dedee shares a practical framework she uses with clients across the country: the Four Rs. These simple moves help leadership teams steady nerves, reengage volunteers, and rebuild momentum during the quiet phase and beyond.

You’ll learn how to:

• Reframe expectations so leaders, staff, and committees understand that campaigns rise and fall in pace across phases
• Recommit to purpose by centering mission moments in meetings and inviting a campaign champion to keep vision and energy front and center
• Refocus on small wins through short-term benchmarks, internal updates, and celebrations that recognize progress in outreach, meetings, and gift conversations
• Reassess when progress slows by refreshing prospect priorities, addressing capacity gaps, and shifting attention to donors who are ready to advance

Highlights from the conversation:

• Why early lead gift work often creates long stretches with few visible results, and how to set expectations before that lull begins
• A simple way to map phases on a shared timeline so every participant knows the current focus and their role
• How a lead donor’s brief remarks can reenergize a board at key pivot points
• What to include in a monthly internal update to lift morale and show momentum across teams working on feasibility, design, prospecting, and leadership recruitment
• A relationship-first approach to the quiet phase that tracks meaningful touchpoints, introductions to additional leaders, and readiness for an ask
• When to rotate prospects up the depth chart to secure near-term wins while larger gifts continue on a longer path

Whether you are a CEO, development director, or campaign chair, this episode gives you a clear playbook to steady the team and move forward with confidence when progress feels slow.

To ensure your campaign ends in a celebration, download our free Capital Campaign Step-by-Step Guide & Checklist.This intuitive guide breaks down each step of your campaign, and the timeline allows you to visualize your whole campaign, from start to finish!

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Andrea Kihlstedt talks with Rob Riley, President of the Northern Forest Center, about how his organization raised $35 million through a unique blend of philanthropy and impact investing.

Spanning 30 million acres across Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York, the Northern Forest Center set out to revitalize rural communities while protecting the largest continuous forest east of the Mississippi. Rob shares how the organization structured its first capital campaign to combine traditional fundraising with investment opportunities tied to real estate redevelopment, housing, and community revitalization projects.

Listeners will learn how the Northern Forest Center:

• Balanced philanthropic gifts with investment capital to strengthen local economies and fund conservation initiatives
• Overcame challenges tied to multi-state fundraising and community-based giving
• Built a fundraising team that grew from two staff members to five while tripling the organization’s budget
• Designed campaigns that engaged both donors and investors, with 75% of participants contributing in both ways
• Used feasibility studies, case statements, and clear messaging to gain support for complex projects
• Celebrated milestones with community events that inspired reinvestment and long-term engagement

Rob also highlights the role of volunteer leadership, the lessons learned from structuring matches and incentives, and the importance of celebrating success to keep momentum alive. From board development to donor cultivation, this conversation offers insights into what it takes to raise transformational capital for large-scale, place-based initiatives.

Whether you are leading a nonprofit campaign, exploring impact investing, or looking for creative approaches to engage donors across regions, this episode offers practical takeaways and inspiring strategies.

To ensure your campaign ends in a celebration, download our free Capital Campaign Step-by-Step Guide & Checklist. This intuitive guide breaks down each step of your campaign, and the timeline allows you to visualize your whole campaign, from start to finish!

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein welcomes Capital Campaign Pro’s Director of Engagement, Steven Shattuck, to explore how nonprofit organizations can approach artificial intelligence with confidence, strategy, and purpose. Whether you’re skeptical of AI or eager to experiment, this conversation unpacks what it means to use AI responsibly while staying focused on relationships and results.

Steven, author of Robots Make Bad Fundraisers, shares his perspective on how AI fits into modern nonprofit work: not as a replacement for the human element, but as a set of tools that can improve efficiency and free up time for the work that truly matters.

Topics Covered in This Episode:

• How to assess your organization’s needs before adopting any AI tools
• Why nonprofits often lag in tech adoption, and how to overcome those barriers
• The importance of having an internal “tech champion” to evaluate and experiment with new tools
• Real-world examples of AI helping with campaign planning, meeting prep, donor communication, and volunteer training
• Why Capital Campaign Pro developed Andie, an AI tool trained specifically for capital campaign strategy, and how clients are using it to save hours of time each week
• Practical safety reminders when using AI tools, including data privacy best practices
• What tools like Claude, ChatGPT, and others are good at (and when to use each)

Throughout the conversation, Amy and Steven emphasize that AI should never replace the strategic thinking and relationship-building at the heart of fundraising. Instead, it should support the work of nonprofit leaders, making it faster to draft documents, generate ideas, and prepare for donor interactions. From customizing gift agreements to training new staff or board members, AI is already making a difference for organizations of all sizes.

Notable Highlights:

• “Donors give to outcomes—not organizations. AI can help us communicate those outcomes more clearly and more efficiently.”
• “You don’t need to jump on every new tech trend, but ignoring AI altogether could cost you valuable time and energy.”
• “The first step is to check what you already have. Your CRM or other tools may already offer AI-powered features.”
• “Our clients aren’t replacing advisors with AI—they’re using AI between meetings to move faster and make better decisions.”

Steven also reflects on the current moment in nonprofit tech: AI isn’t a passing trend. It’s a shift in how we work.

Key Takeaways for Nonprofit Leaders:

• Start with your goals. Choose tools based on your actual pain points, not the latest trend
• Look for low-risk opportunities to experiment, like creating first drafts of agendas or donor letters
• Assign someone - staff, volunteer, or board member - to lead your internal AI exploration
• Train tools with trusted data and frameworks to get relevant, high-quality responses
• Be mindful of privacy, especially when using free public AI tools
• Collaborate with consultants and vendors who are tech-forward and actively integrating new tools

Whether you’re running a $60 million campaign or just beginning to think about how to modernize your systems, this episode offers approachable, practical ideas to help you get started (or go deeper) with AI in your organization.

Resources Mentioned:

• Capital Campaign Pro’s online toolkit and Andie, the AI assistant
• Steven’s book: Robots Make Bad Fundraisers
• AI tools discussed: ChatGPT, Claude by Anthropic, Perplexity
• Free blog articles, webinars, and tools available at capitalcampaignpro.com

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt explain why a gift range chart is one of the most essential planning tools for any successful capital campaign. They break down what a gift range chart is, how to create one, and why it can guide your campaign from start to finish.

You’ll hear why setting the right top gift amount is critical, how your donor base size influences the chart’s shape, and what percentage of your total goal should come from your largest gifts. Andrea and Amy share practical examples showing how different organizations—such as a large, well-known nonprofit versus a smaller, more specialized group—might structure their charts for the best results.

The conversation covers:

• How to determine your campaign goal before building your chart
• Why the top gift often needs to be 20–35% of your total goal
• The relationship between donor base size and gift distribution
• Common mistakes, like underestimating top gift size and overestimating small gift totals
• How to use a gift range chart calculator to test different scenarios
• Why this tool is a guide, not a formula, and still requires your judgment
• How to identify potential lead donors based on past giving history
• What to do if your donor base can’t support your original goal
• The role of feasibility studies in confirming gift potential

Listeners will also learn why large gifts almost always come from people already connected to the organization—and why it’s rare to receive a transformational gift from someone with no prior giving history. Amy and Andrea discuss how to set aspirational yet achievable targets, and how to adjust your campaign plan if early research shows that your original goal may be out of reach.

By the end of the episode, you’ll understand how a thoughtfully constructed gift range chart can help you anticipate challenges, guide donor cultivation, and keep your campaign on track from start to finish.

Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:

• Capital Campaign Pro Gift Range Chart Calculator

For more free capital campaign resources, visit https://capitalcampaignpro.com/campaign-resources.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Andrea Kihlstedt sits down with Graeme Watt, co-owner of Anthem Creative, to explore how nonprofit leaders can sharpen their storytelling to strengthen donor engagement and drive campaign results.

Graeme shares his journey from founding a grassroots youth nonprofit in his living room to leading large-scale digital storytelling efforts with organizations like World Vision. His experience on both sides of the nonprofit spectrum (nimble startup and global giant) gives him a rare lens into what makes storytelling resonate across channels and audiences.

The episode introduces the concept of “anthem stories”: compelling narratives that distill the essence of a nonprofit’s mission, vision, and values through the lived experience of a single person or community. Graeme breaks down how these stories can move beyond abstract mission statements to become powerful tools for donor acquisition, cultivation, and stewardship.

Key Highlights Include:

• Why the phrase “whoever tells the best story wins” matters more than ever in a competitive fundraising environment
• The difference between mission statements that glaze over eyes and stories that make people lean in
• How to identify your organization’s anthem stories, and why you should train your entire team to do the same
• Strategies for building a story identification system that draws on frontline staff without overwhelming them
• How stories can be used face-to-face by gift officers and board members, or repurposed into long-form content for donor events Why the best campaigns don’t just raise money for buildings or equipment—they tell deeper stories about impact and transformation

What AI may mean for nonprofit storytelling, and why human emotion, authenticity, and connection remain irreplaceable

Graeme also discusses how capital campaigns present a unique opportunity to wrap bold, inspiring stories around organizational moments. Whether you're raising funds for a new facility, celebrating an anniversary, or preparing for a major initiative, understanding and communicating the "bigger story" behind your campaign can make all the difference.

He and Andrea examine practical examples, including how a $600,000 septic system became part of a $2.8 million storytelling-driven campaign, and reflect on the common hesitation nonprofits feel about telling their own stories. They explore why even experienced fundraising professionals can find it challenging to gather and share stories, and how to shift that mindset by embedding storytelling into organizational culture.

To wrap up, Graeme offers two key takeaways:

1. Create a story identification strategy that equips your team to recognize and collect meaningful stories.
2. Be bold. Don't settle for safe, forgettable content. Take creative risks that cut through the noise and connect with the right donors.

Whether you're deep into a campaign or just starting to explore how storytelling fits into your fundraising strategy, this episode offers thoughtful insight, practical steps, and inspiring encouragement to help you turn your stories into tools for impact.

For more about Graeme’s work, visit AnthemCreative.ca.

To access free resources on capital campaigns, including guides and tools mentioned in the episode, visit capitalcampaignpro.com/resources.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt unpack a deceptively simple question: what counts toward your campaign goal?

Getting this wrong can damage your credibility, confuse your board and donors, and throw off your reports. The good news? A clear set of campaign policies established early on can prevent most of the trouble. But clarity is not always easy.

Amy and Andrea walk through some of the most common questions organizations face when deciding what to count:

• Should annual fund dollars be included in the campaign total?
• What about planned gifts that might not mature for decades?
• How should you treat in-kind donations like construction materials, technology, or donated property?
• What happens when the development office and the finance department count gifts differently?

Using real-world stories and candid advice, they explore the consequences of unclear counting rules and the benefits of getting your team on the same page before the campaign is underway. You'll hear how one organization solved a million-dollar deficit thanks to a bequest made 70 years earlier, and how another spent more time than they’d like to admit trying to offload a donor’s beloved collection of heavy metal figurines.

The episode also covers how to handle situations where accounting and fundraising standards don’t align. You might need two sets of reports: one for your auditors and one for your campaign committee. That tension is normal, but it needs to be addressed openly with your team—especially your finance colleagues.

If you're planning a campaign or even thinking about one, this conversation will help you ask smarter questions now so you can avoid bigger problems later. And if you're not sure where to start, the Capital Campaign Pro Toolkit includes sample policies and discussion guides to help you think through these decisions.

To ensure your campaign ends in a celebration, download our free Capital Campaign Step-by-Step Guide & Checklist. This intuitive guide breaks down each step of your campaign, and the timeline allows you to visualize your whole campaign, from start to finish!

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, host Amy Eisenstein is joined by nationally recognized nonprofit consultant Christal Cherry, known to many as “The Board Pro,” to talk about one of the biggest challenges for nonprofit leaders: how to find and keep the right board members.

With more than 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Christal has helped hundreds of organizations rethink board service by focusing on purpose, inclusion, and long-term commitment. In this candid conversation, Christal shares practical, experience-based strategies for board recruitment, onboarding, and engagement that go far beyond the usual advice about fundraising potential or "big pockets."

This episode has answers if you’ve ever wondered:

• What makes someone the “right” board member for your organization?
• Why lived experience and community representation are just as valuable as fundraising capacity?
• How to plan ahead so your board reflects your future, not just your present?
• What a diverse and inclusive board culture looks like in real life?
• How to remove unengaged board members and make space for fresh energy?

Amy and Christal explore how to build a board matrix based on your actual needs and values rather than a generic template. They talk about how to assess skill gaps, governance expertise, and lived experience. You’ll hear why recruiting "another Kevin" is often a mistake and why the best question to ask is, "Who is missing?"

Christal also shares smart strategies for organizations with limited staff or budget, including:

• How to use LinkedIn and other tools to identify strong candidates
• A “roll and scroll” phone exercise to activate your board’s networks
• Low-cost ways to build an inclusive board culture, like DEI calendars, peer mentors, and shared meals
• The importance of onboarding that goes beyond a binder or slide deck

You’ll also learn how to keep board members engaged between meetings. Christal shares examples of “board bites,” or mini-trainings on governance or fundraising, and ideas to connect board members to programs and events in a hands-on way.

Finally, the conversation turns to culture. It’s not enough to invite diverse candidates if your boardroom dynamics, expectations, or meeting times haven’t changed. Christal explains what it means to prepare your organization for inclusion, including how to rethink time commitments, accessibility, and the unspoken norms that might be keeping new voices out.

Whether you’re preparing for a capital campaign, growing your board, or trying to strengthen governance, this episode is full of advice you can put to work right away.

Topics covered:

• Defining the right board member for your unique mission
• Common board recruitment mistakes and how to avoid them
• How to balance fundraising with lived experience
• Building a skills-based board matrix
• Onboarding new members in meaningful ways
• Creating a culture of belonging with limited resources
• Removing inactive or unengaged board members

Learn more about Christal Cherry at www.theboardpro.com, including tools and resources for recruitment and engagement

For more board engagement tips, be sure to download our free Board Member’s Guide to Capital Campaign Fundraising. It answers the questions board members most frequently ask, or wish they could ask.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt break down a true story about a $2.5 million gift — and how it started with a donor who originally gave just $1,000 a year.

Andrea shares a firsthand account from one of her coaching clients who transformed a modest corporate gift into a major, multi-year commitment. What made it happen? A mix of persistence, timing, courage, and a smart, hands-on approach to donor engagement.

You’ll hear:

• How an early annual donor (who once asked to stop being emailed!) became a seven-figure campaign sponsor
• What changed when a new leader stepped into the decision-making role
• Why inviting a company’s entire marketing team to visit the organization in person made all the difference
• How having the courage to ask for more can lead to transformative gifts
• Why “we don’t have major donors” often just means “we’ve never made the case”

This episode is packed with practical takeaways for campaign leaders who are wondering how to move donors from modest support to leadership-level giving. Andrea and Amy reflect on the real work that happens behind the scenes, including building relationships over time, watching for leadership changes, and creating moments that spark genuine enthusiasm.

They also emphasize that even if your organization doesn't have a science center or museum to show off, you can still craft meaningful ways for donors to feel connected and invested in your mission. Whether it’s a tour, a hands-on experience, or a story told with heart, engagement can be your strongest strategy.

If you’re heading into a campaign and wondering how to inspire your donors to step up in a big way, this episode shows how it happens—not through luck, but through strategy and care.

To explore how Capital Campaign Pro can support your next campaign, visit capitalcampaignpro.com. And if this episode got you thinking, share it with your team or fellow fundraisers. You never know who might need to hear it!

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Andrea Kihlstedt sits down with Cindy Mewhinney, Director of Advancement at the Shaw Festival, and Richard Quinn, Senior Advisor with Capital Campaign Pro, for a behind-the-scenes look at the Shaw Festival’s bold and inspiring $150 million capital campaign: All.Together.Now.

Cindy and Richard unpack how a campaign that began with a simple plan to rebuild the Royal George Theatre transformed into a movement built around creativity, community, and long-term impact. From the acquisition of a new property for artist housing to the launch of the Burton Center for Lifelong Creativity, the campaign expanded in vision, scope, and ambition—all while keeping donors, volunteers, and board members engaged and energized.

Listen as they share:

• How the campaign grew from a $50 million project to a $150 million campaign
• Why legacy gifts became a central pillar of their strategy—and how those conversations started
• What role “long-shot” prospects played in some of their largest and most surprising gifts
• How board alignment and volunteer leadership fueled momentum from the quiet phase through the public launch
• Why patience, flexibility, and trust in leadership were essential as the campaign evolved
• The unique way they’re using this campaign to spotlight “real human connection” through theater and community

You’ll also hear the value of combining capital and planned giving conversations, and how early feasibility testing helped reshape the entire direction of the campaign.

Whether you're just getting started or already deep into planning, this episode offers practical takeaways and strategic insight from a campaign that redefined what’s possible.

For free resources and support for your own capital campaign, visit capitalcampaignpro.com.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, co-founders Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt explore one of the most pressing and often overlooked issues in campaign planning: staffing. Whether you’re leading a small shop or part of a more established development office, running a capital campaign on top of your existing workload presents real challenges—and demands smart staffing decisions.

Amy and Andrea outline practical strategies for expanding your team in ways that support both short-term campaign success and long-term fundraising growth. They emphasize that campaigns are not just about raising money—they’re about strengthening your organization’s capacity, including your development infrastructure.

Listeners will learn:

• Why staffing up for a campaign is not optional, and why the better questions are when and how to do it
• How to involve your executive director more fully by freeing up their time through administrative support
• When to consider adding new positions like a campaign manager, major gifts officer, or dedicated support for annual giving
• How to use simple, self-assessment exercises to clarify staffing needs across executive leadership and development
• The value of outsourcing specific functions like grant writing, communications, and prospect research
• When to leverage virtual assistants to add flexibility without increasing overhead
• How campaign staffing requirements shift during the different phases—from quiet to public—and how to prepare for those changes
• How to frame campaign staffing as part of your campaign budget, and why board members should see it as a strategic investment rather than an expense

The conversation also covers the importance of campaign-specific expertise. Amy and Andrea explain why engaging consulting support early on is critical to help your team develop strategy, set priorities, and remain accountable throughout the campaign.

This episode is especially useful for executive directors, development leaders, and board members who want to understand what it truly takes to support a campaign effectively. It offers grounded advice on aligning capacity with goals so that your team can succeed without burning out.

Additional highlights include:

• Why staffing is a critical piece of campaign ROI
• A phased approach to hiring and outsourcing throughout the campaign timeline
• How to help your executive and development directors assess their workload and delegate strategically
• What campaign communications should include and how to manage them without overloading internal staff

If your organization is preparing for a capital campaign - or currently trying to keep one afloat without enough hands - this episode offers clear direction and valuable insights to help you structure your team for success.

Be sure to check out the Development Office Readiness Assessment, a free downloadable tool mentioned in the episode, available here and at capitalcampaignpro.com under the Resources tab.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein hosts a conversation with Stephanie Wilensky, Development Director at CooperRiis Healing Community, and Capital Campaign Pro Senior Advisor Xan Blake.

Together, they share a compelling story of how a small fundraising team kept momentum alive in the face of extraordinary circumstances, including a devastating hurricane that left the organization temporarily disconnected and without water.

Located in Western North Carolina, CooperRiis Healing Community launched a capital campaign focused on long-term sustainability through a $6 million endowment and 10 documented planned gifts. When Hurricane Helene struck mid-campaign, the team’s response was immediate and community-centered. Despite personal and professional disruptions, including severe property damage and the urgent need to care for residents, staff, and families, the organization chose to continue its campaign with renewed clarity.

Listeners will hear how:

• A guided feasibility study helped identify strong community support for an endowment-based campaign with no bricks-and-mortar component
• Stephanie, a first-time fundraiser, grew in confidence and skill through direct donor interviews and relationship-building
• CooperRiis used the crisis as a moment to deepen connections, reevaluate priorities, and reaffirm the need for sustainable funding
• Donor conversations during and after the hurricane became a springboard for further campaign success and renewed engagement
• Planned giving became a natural and meaningful part of campaign conversations, even for an organization new to the concept

Xan Blake offers a consultant’s perspective on the critical decisions that helped preserve campaign momentum and the importance of honoring both immediate needs and long-term goals. Stephanie reflects on the personal and organizational growth sparked by working through a campaign in the midst of disaster recovery.

Whether you're working in a small shop, planning an endowment campaign, or simply wondering if you can continue your campaign after a major disruption, this episode offers valuable insights, encouragement, and concrete examples of how determination, flexibility, and mission alignment can help you move forward.

Highlights include:

• How CooperRiis adapted campaign strategy in the aftermath of a natural disaster
• The value of building donor relationships through feasibility study interviews
• A practical approach to introducing and securing planned gifts
• Lessons in team collaboration and leadership under pressure
• Real-life proof that endowment campaigns without a building component can succeed

Tune in to learn how one team turned challenge into opportunity, and why long-term vision can withstand even the toughest storms.

For more tips on how your organization can maintain your resiliency during whatever challenging times lie ahead, download our free eBook Fundraising in Uncertain Times.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt explore a topic too often overlooked: how to include your full staff—not just your fundraising team—in the campaign process.From front-desk staff to program leaders, finance officers to communications teams, everyone has a role to play. Andrea and Amy walk through how different departments are affected by a campaign and why it's crucial that each group understands the timing, goals, and expectations. They offer real examples, including a front-desk "mystery donor" test that revealed a major gap in internal communication.

You’ll hear how campaigns often require a shift in messaging, reporting, and collaboration across departments. The conversation covers:

• Why development staff not directly involved in the campaign still need clear communication and coordination
• What communications staff need to understand about the quiet phase
• How to avoid tension with finance staff over campaign gift reporting
• Why program and public-facing staff should be kept in the loop

The episode also highlights the importance of ongoing internal updates—quarterly or even monthly—to keep your team aligned as the campaign progresses. Amy and Andrea emphasize that campaigns should energize your entire organization, not just the development office.

If you're already in a campaign or just starting to plan, this episode will help you build internal clarity and momentum from the inside out.

To ensure your campaign ends in a celebration, download our free Capital Campaign Step-by-Step Guide & Checklist - https://capitalcampaignpro.com/checklist/ - This intuitive guide breaks down each step of your campaign, and the timeline allows you to visualize your whole campaign, from start to finish!

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein welcomes two experienced Capital Campaign Pro advisors, Paula Peter and Kristin Raack, for a deep conversation about assessing campaign readiness. With decades of combined experience guiding nonprofits through the early stages of major fundraising initiatives, Paula and Kristin offer practical insights to help organizations determine if the time is right for a campaign—and what to do if it’s not yet.

The discussion begins by exploring the foundational elements of readiness: a clear and compelling vision, internal alignment among board and staff, and a solid understanding of what the campaign will fund and why it matters. Paula and Kristin highlight the importance of internal consensus and strategic planning to ensure that all key stakeholders are working toward a shared goal.

They also stress the value of early engagement among leadership teams. When boards and staff are out of sync—whether due to capacity concerns, unclear priorities, or lack of experience—the likelihood of campaign success diminishes. Through stories from their advisory work, they demonstrate how a readiness assessment can uncover disconnects and help organizations build internal alignment before launching a campaign.

Kristin introduces the concept of “campaign mindset”—a critical ingredient for success. Beyond having resources or experience, what matters most is an organization's commitment to prioritize the campaign. Are the board and staff prepared to make strategic decisions and sustain momentum even when the process becomes challenging?

The conversation moves to donor readiness. Paula and Kristin discuss what they look for in a donor base, including how well an organization understands its top supporters and how engaged those donors are. They debunk the myth that an organization must already have a mature major gifts program to succeed. Many organizations learn to raise major gifts through the campaign process itself.

Practical examples are shared throughout the episode, including:

• A social service nonprofit that had the vision and donor pool but needed to pause and address internal stress and operational changes before moving forward.
• A youth-focused organization with board-staff alignment and vision, but missing tactical pieces like CRM hygiene and prospect tracking.
• A national nonprofit transitioning from a founder to a new CEO, in need of a cultural shift toward collaborative planning.

Amy, Paula, and Kristin emphasize that a readiness assessment rarely ends with a flat “no.” Instead, it typically results in a roadmap of clear next steps so that organizations can move forward confidently in the next 6 to 18 months. Whether that means strengthening internal processes, clarifying goals, or building new donor relationships, a thoughtful preparation phase positions campaigns for long-term success.

Listeners will walk away with clarity on:

• What campaign readiness really means
• How to identify and address misalignment between board and staff
• What to look for in a donor base and how to develop one
• Tactical improvements that make campaigns less stressful
• Why campaign mindset matters more than past experience

To see if your organization is truly ready for a capital campaign, download this free Readiness Assessment. This guide will help you evaluate six aspects of your organization, including the board and your case for support.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt answer a key question: Do you need a feasibility study before launching a capital campaign? Their answer is a clear yes—and they explain why skipping one can lead to poor decisions, missed opportunities, and campaign failure.

They walk through how traditional feasibility studies have often kept donor feedback behind a curtain, leaving nonprofit leaders with vague reports and no way to follow up. Amy and Andrea introduce a new model where nonprofit staff lead the conversations with major donors themselves—building stronger relationships and collecting better insights along the way.

Learn the benefits of guided feasibility studies, how they help shape realistic campaign goals, and why involving your largest donors early can change the course of your fundraising. You’ll also hear a compelling story of a million-dollar gift that would’ve been lost under the old model.

If you're thinking about a campaign, don’t miss this episode. You’ll come away with two key takeaways: a feasibility study sets you up for a successful campaign, and you should never outsource your donor relationships.

For more feasibility study guidance, be sure to download our free Ultimate Guide to Capital Campaign Feasibility Studies.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt tackle a common challenge: well-meaning board members whose ideas can derail a campaign. From insisting on fundraising galas to asking for gifts too early—or too small—board members often act with good intentions but without a clear understanding of how campaigns actually work.

Amy and Andrea share real-life examples of how campaigns have gone off course due to board members pushing for events, making premature asks, setting unrealistic goals, or resisting professional help. They explain why these situations happen and what staff and leadership teams can do to address them without damaging relationships.

You’ll hear practical suggestions like:

• Inviting outside campaign consultants for informal interviews to offer perspective
• Bringing in peer leaders from other successful campaigns
• Using tools like one-on-one conversations and Capital Campaign Pro’s free Board Member’s Guide to Capital Campaigns

This episode also explores why compassion and curiosity matter when redirecting board members—and how a calm, strategic approach can keep your campaign focused, your team unified, and your donors confident.

If you’ve got a board member pushing for a golf tournament to raise $10 million, this one’s for you.

For more board engagement tips, be sure to download our free Board Member’s Guide to Capital Campaign Fundraising. It answers the questions board members most frequently ask, or wish they could ask.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt explain how to set a realistic, aspirational fundraising goal for your capital campaign—without pulling a number out of thin air.

They share three essential factors to consider: the cost of your project, a multiple of your current fundraising capacity, and the potential size of your top gifts. You'll learn how these inputs come together to form a working goal—a draft goal used to guide early planning and donor conversations.

Amy and Andrea also tackle what happens when the full project cost exceeds what your donors can realistically fund. You'll hear why it's smart to test a high goal, how to plan for multiple funding sources, and why flexibility is built into the best campaigns.

If you're unsure where to start with goal setting, this episode offers a clear, grounded approach—and a reminder that courage and clarity go hand in hand when asking for big gifts.

To ensure your campaign ends in a celebration, download our free Capital Campaign Step-by-Step Guide & Checklist. This intuitive guide breaks down each step of your campaign, and the timeline allows you to visualize your whole campaign, from start to finish!

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt unpack a common but costly mistake nonprofits make—treating donors as checkbooks instead of partners. Sparked by recent federal funding cuts to arts organizations, this conversation challenges fundraising teams to rethink how they communicate with their most committed supporters during a crisis.

Too often, when a major grant disappears or budgets fall short, nonprofits react with urgency but little strategy. A mass email plea might generate a trickle of support, but it rarely strengthens long-term donor relationships or builds confidence. Amy and Andrea argue there’s a better way—one that starts by treating your top donors like trusted advisors.

The episode digs into the difference between reactive fundraising and relationship-based fundraising. The key? Seeing your donors as people who want your mission to succeed and are willing to help in more ways than writing a check. Andrea shares a personal example of how a missed opportunity left her feeling like "just another wallet," and Amy discusses the psychological impact of mass appeals versus personalized outreach.

You’ll hear:

• Why most fundraising appeals fall flat after a crisis—and what to do instead
• How to engage your top donors in real conversations about strategy, not just funding
• Why even non-fundraising experts have valuable insight into program decisions
• The value of building a mental “donor committee” that you turn to regularly
• How relational fundraising mirrors real-life friendships—and why that matters
• Ways to make your follow-up more than a thank-you note

Amy and Andrea offer a practical framework that fundraising professionals can adopt immediately—starting with a simple mindset shift: Donors are institutional friends, not vending machines. If that sounds soft, think again. This approach can lead to larger gifts, more meaningful partnerships, and long-term campaign success.

This conversation is especially timely for nonprofit leaders facing funding cuts, uncertainty, or stalled campaigns. If you’re tired of short-term fixes and want to start building lasting support, this episode offers a clear path forward.

To learn more about capital campaign strategy and donor engagement, visit capitalcampaignpro.com, where you’ll find free resources and ways to work directly with expert advisors like Amy and Andrea.

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In this episode, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt tackle one of the most pressing concerns for campaign leaders: the fear of failure. They explore the nuanced definitions of campaign success and failure, revealing that it’s not just about meeting financial goals but also about setting the right expectations and navigating unexpected challenges.

Listen in as they recount real-life stories of organizations that faced campaign obstacles and emerged stronger. Discover how a clear order of solicitation, a compelling case for support, and a well-defined campaign plan can be your keys to success.

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In this insightful episode of the All About Capital Campaigns podcast, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt delve into the pivotal role of feasibility studies in capital campaigns. They present three compelling reasons why conducting a feasibility study is not just beneficial but essential for campaign success.​

Amy and Andrea also introduce Capital Campaign Pro's innovative Guided Feasibility Study model, which empowers nonprofit leaders to conduct donor interviews themselves, with expert guidance, enhancing authenticity and internal capacity.

Whether you're contemplating a capital campaign or seeking to optimize your fundraising strategy, this episode offers practical advice and proven methodologies to set your campaign on the path to success.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt tackle a pressing challenge faced by many nonprofit organizations: managing unexpected government funding cuts. They explore strategies for launching a successful gap funding campaign, a targeted approach to securing crucial short-term donations to sustain vital programs.

Amy and Andrea explain what distinguishes gap funding campaigns from traditional capital campaigns, highlighting why nonprofits should approach them differently. Learn practical steps for clearly communicating urgent funding needs to your donors, building contingency plans, and leveraging this moment to strengthen relationships with your supporters.

You'll hear inspiring examples of how nonprofits have swiftly mobilized donor support to replace lost government grants, providing a lifeline for critical community services. Amy and Andrea also discuss common concerns about donor capacity during uncertain economic times and offer reassurance about the generosity and financial stability of committed supporters.

Listeners will come away equipped with actionable guidance on crafting a compelling case for support, organizing an effective short-term fundraising committee, and using this campaign as an opportunity to connect more deeply with major donors. Discover how proactive fundraising can safeguard your organization’s mission and set the stage for increased sustainability.

Listen now to ensure your nonprofit is prepared to handle funding uncertainties with confidence and clarity.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt explore how to evaluate your board's readiness for a capital campaign. They discuss key indicators such as consistent board meeting attendance and annual financial contributions from all board members, emphasizing that these factors reflect the board's commitment and engagement.

The episode also introduces a free Board Readiness Assessment tool designed to help nonprofit leaders identify areas that may need strengthening before launching a campaign.

Tune in as Amy and Andrea provide practical insights and actionable advice to ensure your board is prepared to support a successful capital campaign. Whether you're in the early planning stages or ready to launch, this episode offers valuable guidance to align your board's efforts with your fundraising goals.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt delve into the challenges of managing time effectively when preparing for a capital campaign.

They offer four practical strategies to enhance efficiency, discuss the importance of investing in better systems, and explore how to secure board approval for these investments. This episode is essential for nonprofit leaders seeking to balance their existing responsibilities with the demands of a capital campaign.

Tune in as Amy and Andrea share real-world examples, expert insights, and actionable tips to help you streamline your efforts and set your campaign up for success. Whether you’re just beginning to consider a campaign or already deep in planning, this episode will leave you feeling more confident and in control of your time.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt break down the essential quiet phase—the period that can make or break your campaign. They clarify that while it's called "quiet," this phase is actually an active and strategic time for securing major gifts before making a public announcement.

Amy and Andrea share three critical tips to ensure a successful quiet phase:

1️⃣ Identify the right donors – Focus on your biggest potential givers and those closest to your organization, such as board members.

2️⃣ Be patient and strategic – Work through solicitations methodically, starting with top donors before moving down the list.

3️⃣ Stay organized – Track conversations, proposals, and donor progress to keep everything moving smoothly.

This episode offers expert insights into donor engagement, solicitation timing, and how to create momentum for a winning capital campaign. Tune in and set your campaign up for success! 🎙️

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt challenge the common mindset around feasibility study interviews and make a compelling case for expanding the list beyond your current top donors.

A simple question from a prospective client—“Why do we have to interview more than 12 people?”—sets the stage for a deeper discussion about how nonprofit leaders often confuse necessity with opportunity. Andrea recounts a recent conversation that sparked this topic and explains why interviewing 30 or more people isn’t a burden—it’s a strategic move with long-term benefits.

Amy and Andrea break down why feasibility study interviews are not just about assessing campaign readiness but also serve as a powerful tool to build relationships, raise sights, and gather community feedback. This episode offers multiple frameworks for deciding who should be included in your interviews—ranging from concentric circles of connection to categories of influence and gift potential.

The conversation includes:

• Why focusing only on your current top donors limits your campaign’s reach
• How talking to $200 donors may uncover individuals with much higher giving capacity
• The role of community leaders and philanthropic influencers—even if they aren’t donors
• How to use feasibility interviews to inform and activate powerful connectors
• The difference between transactional interviews and strategic relationship-building
• Real client stories that show how consistent communication can lead to million-dollar gifts

This episode also unpacks why including diverse voices, even skeptics or naysayers, helps sharpen your campaign planning and create buy-in across key stakeholder groups. Whether you’re planning your first feasibility study or rethinking your approach for the next one, Amy and Andrea offer practical advice that’s grounded in years of hands-on experience.

Their core message? These interviews aren’t a checklist item. They’re an opening. An invitation. A chance to shape how your community sees your campaign and to build new relationships that could turn into major gifts—sometimes months or even years down the road.

If you’ve ever wondered how to “find new donors” or questioned the value of guided feasibility studies where staff conduct interviews themselves, this episode offers insights worth considering.

Have you been thinking too small with your interview list? This conversation might just change your mind.

Don’t forget to subscribe to All About Capital Campaigns wherever you get your podcasts. If you find value in what Amy and Andrea share, take a moment to rate and review the show—it helps others discover practical, experience-based capital campaign advice.

For more feasibility study guidance, be sure to download our free Ultimate Guide to Capital Campaign Feasibility Studies - https://capitalcampaignpro.com/feasibility-study-ultimate-guide

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt share expert tips on how nonprofit staff, board members, and key leaders can make the most of donor events. Too often, staff members stick together, leaving guests feeling disconnected. Instead, events should be an opportunity to strengthen relationships and move fundraising forward.

Listen in as Amy and Andrea cover essential strategies, including:

• How to prepare before an event, including setting goals and identifying key donors to engage
• Practical ways to make guests feel welcome and included
• How to introduce donors to one another to foster deeper connections
• Why follow-up is just as important as the event itself—and how to do it right'

If your team has ever struggled with feeling awkward or unsure about engaging donors at events, this episode will give you the tools to turn casual conversations into lasting relationships.

For more free capital campaign resources, visit https://capitalcampaignpro.com/campaign-resources.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt sit down with nonprofit expert Cherian Koshy to discuss the urgent federal funding crisis affecting organizations across the country. With government funding decisions shifting rapidly, many nonprofits are unsure how to secure financial stability. Cherian breaks down the latest legislative updates, what executive orders mean for nonprofit funding, and how organizations can adapt.

This conversation explores key questions:

• What’s really happening with federal funding, and who is impacted?
• How can nonprofits plan for potential funding cuts?
• Is private philanthropy a realistic solution to fill the gaps?
• What strategies can organizations use to advocate for continued support?

If your organization depends on federal grants or contracts, this episode is a must-listen. Learn what steps you can take now to navigate uncertainty and ensure long-term sustainability.

For more conversations surrounding the recent federal funding crisis, visit the Capital Campaign Pro resources archives.

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Volunteers are the backbone of a successful capital campaign—but how do you truly engage, activate, and motivate them to take action? In this episode, fundraising experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt explore the key strategies to transform passive supporters into passionate advocates.

From setting clear expectations to creating accountability structures and celebrating wins, Amy and Andrea share practical, proven techniques to help campaign leaders inspire their volunteers and board members. You’ll learn how to assign meaningful tasks, align volunteer efforts with the fundraising cycle, and create an environment where participation is not only effective but also fun and rewarding.

If you’ve ever struggled with getting your board or campaign committee to take action, this episode is for you. Tune in to discover how to build a motivated, energized team that drives your campaign forward.

And if you need expert guidance, the Capital Campaign Pro Team is here to help! Visit our website to learn how we can support you in building a high-performing volunteer network for your next campaign.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, marketing and strategy expert Seth Godin joins Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt from Capital Campaign Pro for a conversation about storytelling, outreach, and engagement.

Seth shares insights on crafting messages that inspire action and build stronger connections. This discussion explores ways organizations can communicate effectively, especially when clarity and trust are more important than ever.

Whether you're refining your donor outreach or looking for fresh ideas to strengthen engagement, this conversation offers practical takeaways to help you connect with your audience in meaningful ways.

Tune in for an insightful discussion filled with actionable advice on strengthening donor relationships and creating messages that resonate.

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In this episode ofAll About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt break down how to plan and run meetings that keep campaign volunteers engaged, energized, and eager to contribute. Discover practical strategies for structuring meetings, creating effective agendas, and ensuring that every participant feels heard and valued.

Drawing from real-life campaign experiences, Andrea shares how well-facilitated meetings helped one organization achieve outstanding financial success over a six-year period, with volunteers so engaged that they didn’t want committees to end. Amy and Andrea offer specific techniques for setting meeting goals, fostering meaningful discussions, and avoiding common pitfalls like unproductive wordsmithing and disengaged participants.

You’ll also learn the benefits of structuring conversations to give everyone “air time,” how to balance input from dominant voices with quieter participants, and why sometimes the best meeting decision is to cancel it altogether. Whether you’re planning in-person or virtual meetings, the tips shared in this episode are designed to boost productivity and build strong volunteer connections.

If you’re interested in learning more about creating compelling meetings or want to explore Capital Campaign Pro’s services, tune in and find out how successful campaigns are fueled by thoughtful planning and enthusiastic participation.

For more free capital campaign resources, visithttps://capitalcampaignpro.com/campaign-resources.

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In this episode ofAll About Capital Campaigns, we’re sharing the audio from a recent webinar addressing the uncertainty nonprofits are facing due to the federal funding pause in early 2025. While we usually record standalone podcast episodes, this discussion was too important not to repurpose.

Hosts Amy Eisenstein, Andrea Kihlstedt, and Sarah Plimpton of Capital Campaign Pro break down the impact of the funding freeze, what it means for nonprofit leaders, and how to approach fundraising in unpredictable times. They discuss:

• How to communicate with donors in a time of uncertainty
• The role of emergency funding campaigns and scenario planning
• Why staying engaged with funders, legislators, and board members is critical
• Practical ways to support nonprofit staff through the stress of an unstable funding landscape

The conversation also highlights lessons learned from past crises and why nonprofit leaders must stay proactive, adaptable, and connected to their communities.

If your organization relies on government grants, is planning a capital campaign, or is facing financial uncertainty, this episode offers valuable perspectives and strategies.

For additional insights and steps you can take now, check out the full webinar series atcapitalcampaignpro.com/emergency

Don’t miss this essential discussion for nonprofit leaders navigating a shifting funding environment.

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In this episode ofAll About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt dive into one of the most pressing challenges for nonprofit leaders: managing a capital campaign on top of an already packed workload. If you’re an executive director or development professional, you know the demands of juggling end-of-year fundraising, annual campaigns, galas, and donor management. Adding a $5 million or $10 million campaign can seem impossible, but Amy and Andrea share practical strategies to make it manageable.

They begin by discussing the importance of setting clear, actionable goals tailored to the unique structure of capital campaigns. Unlike regular fundraising, these campaigns are top-heavy, requiring you to secure large gifts early on. Learn how to use a gift range chart to structure your efforts, break down large goals into smaller, achievable milestones, and maintain momentum without burning out. Amy shares her passion for goal-setting, offering tips on dividing big objectives into daily, weekly, and monthly tasks that drive results.

Andrea emphasizes the power of focused work, offering a simple but effective tactic: dedicating a consistent time block each week solely to securing meetings with key donors. You’ll hear why this time investment can be a game-changer, how to collaborate with board members to open doors, and why even the smallest actions can lead to major funding breakthroughs. They illustrate this through real-life examples, including a nonprofit that successfully secured a $2 million gift by prioritizing top prospects.

Whether you’re facing your first capital campaign or looking for tips to refine your approach, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you prioritize effectively, avoid common pitfalls, and achieve your campaign goals. Plus, Amy and Andrea remind listeners that the quiet phase is where success begins—so staying laser-focused on top gifts is crucial before broadening outreach.

To ensure your campaign ends in a celebration, download our free Capital CampaignStep-by-Step Guide & Checklist. This intuitive guide breaks down each step of your campaign, and the timeline allows you to visualize your whole campaign, from start to finish!

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In this episode, Andrea Kihlstedt talks with Alexandra O’Connor about her journey in capital campaign fundraising. From learning the ropes at Community MusicWorks to leading an ambitious endowment campaign at The Gordon School, Alexandra shares insights on donor engagement, strategic planning, and balancing operations with relationship-building.

They also discuss the challenges of increasing campaign goals, the power of feasibility studies, and the importance of confidence in fundraising. Whether you're looking to strengthen donor relationships, refine your campaign planning, or gain confidence in making big asks, this episode is filled with valuable lessons.

Tune in to hear Alexandra’s journey and discover practical tips to elevate your own fundraising efforts!

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt reveal the incredible power of the gift range chart, an indispensable tool for any capital campaign. Often called a gift pyramid or table of gifts, this chart does more than outline donation goals—it serves as a comprehensive roadmap for your campaign’s strategy.

Amy and Andrea explain how this simple yet complex chart can eliminate the chaos of campaign planning by structuring communications, guiding timelines, and aligning staff efforts. They discuss how tailoring the chart to reflect your organization’s donor base not only helps assess feasibility but also inspires larger gifts. From crafting donor recognition plans to focusing on top-tier gifts, the gift range chart brings clarity and focus to your campaign.

Drawing on real-world examples, they highlight how this tool can empower nonprofit leaders to streamline their efforts and engage donors more effectively. Whether you’re launching your first campaign or refining your approach, this episode will leave you with actionable insights to make your campaign more manageable and impactful.

To see if your organization is truly ready for a capital campaign, download this free Readiness Assessment. This guide will help you evaluate six aspects of your organization, including the board and your case for support.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt dive into the often-overlooked power of curiosity in fundraising. They explore how understanding donors' motivations and personal stories can transform your fundraising efforts and create authentic connections that inspire giving.

Andrea shares a real-life example of an arts organization and explains why asking meaningful questions—like what drives a donor's passion—is the key to meaningful engagement.

Learn practical strategies to prepare for donor meetings, craft tailored asks, and build relationships that lead to sustained support. Discover why the best fundraisers focus on the "why" behind a donor's generosity, and how taking the time to understand your donors can pave the way for campaign success.

Whether you're in the quiet phase of a campaign or preparing for a significant ask, this episode will give you actionable insights to enhance your approach and raise more money. Tune in to learn why curiosity isn't just important—it's essential for fundraising success.

For more free capital campaign resources, visit https://capitalcampaignpro.com/campaign-resources.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein sits down with Mallory Erickson, fundraising expert, coach, and host of What The Fundraising podcast.

Together, they dive deep into the origins of the scarcity mindset in the nonprofit sector, exploring how this pervasive mentality impacts fundraising practices and organizational culture.

Mallory introduces concepts from her new book, What The Fundraising: Embracing and Enabling the People Behind the Purpose, highlighting actionable tools to shift mindset, reduce stress, and build authentic donor relationships.

Discover how historical factors shaped the dynamics between funders and nonprofits, creating hurdles that persist today. Learn about the connection between mindset and fundraising outcomes, and how neuroscience supports a shift away from scarcity thinking.

Mallory also shares two practical tools—one for the mind and one for the body—to help fundraisers manage stress and stay grounded during high-pressure campaigns.

Whether you're gearing up for a capital campaign or navigating the challenges of day-to-day fundraising, this episode is packed with insights to transform your approach. If you’re looking to align your fundraising strategy with personal and organizational well-being, this conversation is a must-listen!

If your aren't sure whether or not your organization is ready for a capital campaign, check out the Pre-Campaign Readiness Assessment from Capital Campaign Pro.

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Join fundraising experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt as they unravel the essentials of capital campaigns, from small-scale projects to multimillion-dollar transformations.

Discover why size doesn’t define a campaign's success, but its potential to catapult your organization forward does. Through relatable stories, expert insights, and practical tips, this episode explores how campaigns differ from annual fundraising, strategies for securing transformational gifts, and the lasting benefits of building donor relationships.

This episode dives into the power of strategic fundraising to achieve long-term impact. Amy and Andrea discuss the importance of tailoring your campaign to specific goals, whether it’s funding a $10,000 project or a $20 million expansion.

Learn how to leverage one-time gifts, engage major donors, and maintain strong annual fund contributions while pursuing your big dreams. They also share examples of how campaigns can enhance donor engagement and elevate overall fundraising efforts.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the idea of mini-campaigns as a stepping stone between larger projects. These smaller, focused initiatives not only meet immediate needs but also provide a chance to strengthen donor relationships and practice capital campaign strategies on a smaller scale.

Tune in for inspiring examples and practical guidance to help your organization thrive through intentional and impactful fundraising.

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In this episode, capital campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt will help you think through the process of determining the right goal for your campaign. You’ll learn that it takes more than simply knowing how much your project will cost. And setting the right campaign goal sets your campaign up for success.

This is an encore presentation originally aired on February 7, 2022.

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In this episode, campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt have some fun role-playing examples of asking donors for complex gifts that combine campaign, annual and planned giving.

This is an encore presentation originally aired on June 27, 2022.

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How do you determine the right price for naming opportunities in your capital campaign? Join Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt as they unravel the art and science behind donor recognition and stewardship. From avoiding common pitfalls in pricing naming opportunities to designing a donor recognition plan aligned with your gift range chart, this episode offers practical insights to elevate your campaign strategies.

Discover innovative stewardship ideas, how to navigate DEI considerations in donor recognition, and why thoughtful planning from the outset can make or break your campaign’s success. Whether you're planning your first campaign or refining your approach, this episode is packed with actionable advice to inspire your next steps.

This is an encore presentation originally aired on November 15, 2022.

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In this episode, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt dive into one of the most critical aspects of fundraising success: identifying your top 50 donor prospects.

They discuss why these prospects are pivotal to your campaign's success, how to effectively identify and prioritize them, and strategies for leveraging your inner circle to uncover hidden potential.

This is an encore presentation originally aired on July 25, 2022.

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Do you wonder how to approach the wealthiest individuals in your community about your capital campaign? In this episode, Amy and Andrea give you a new perspective - and some useful tools - to address this crucial step in your capital campaign.

Discover how to identify potential donors, build genuine relationships around shared values, and create opportunities for collaboration that benefit both your mission and your community. Whether you're leading a capital campaign or simply looking to expand your network, this conversation offers actionable tips and inspiration to take the first step confidently.

This is an encore presentation originally aired on April 11, 2023.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein hosts Melissa Bank Stepno from Helen Brown Group, a leading prospect research firm. Melissa brings her extensive knowledge to explore donor-advised funds (DAFs) and their transformative role in the nonprofit sector. With DAFs becoming a popular charitable giving vehicle, nonprofit leaders often have questions. Melissa explains what DAFs are, their tax advantages, and how they function as a “giving bank account” managed by nonprofits or financial institutions on behalf of donors. Discover the differences between DAF sponsors—community foundations, financial institutions, and single-issue funds like religious organizations—and how each contributes uniquely to the landscape of donor-advised funds.

The episode dives into why donors choose DAFs beyond tax benefits, including simplicity, flexibility, and even anonymity. Melissa addresses a common question among nonprofit professionals: Are DAFs helping or hindering philanthropy? By unpacking both the advantages and challenges, such as the “distance” sometimes created between donor and organization, she sheds light on how fundraisers can build strong relationships with DAF holders and why this knowledge is crucial for campaign success.

Amy and Melissa also discuss essential tools, like the DAFinitive database developed by the Helen Brown Group, which allows nonprofits to research and identify potential high-value DAF donors. Listen in for practical strategies to engage with DAF donors, including tips on how to leverage communication channels and online tools to facilitate DAF giving directly from your organization’s website. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to integrate DAFs into your fundraising strategy, connect with these uniquely positioned donors, and harness the full potential of donor-advised funds to boost your next campaign.

Tune in to hear why understanding donor-advised funds is more important than ever for fundraisers and how DAFs can become a valuable part of your nonprofit’s campaign strategy. For more free capital campaign resources, visit https://capitalcampaignpro.com/campaign-resources

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt dive into the much-anticipated findings from the second annual State of Capital Campaigns Benchmark Report. This essential research, conducted by Capital Campaign Pro, unveils key insights into the capital campaign process, providing data-driven answers to questions that have lingered in the fundraising world for years.

Amy and Andrea discuss pivotal takeaways, such as the reassuring evidence that capital campaigns do not detract from annual fund revenue. In fact, for over three-quarters of organizations surveyed, annual funds either held steady or grew during their campaigns, debunking the common fear of "cannibalization."

The hosts also reveal the remarkable role of feasibility studies in enhancing campaign success, emphasizing that organizations who conduct these studies experience improved donor relationships, stronger staff performance, and more effective fundraising systems.

Other enlightening topics include:

• The Value of Feasibility Studies: Organizations that invest in a feasibility study not only gain a clearer path forward but also report significant improvements in donor engagement and staff effectiveness.
• Board Giving Doesn’t Make or Break Campaign Success: Contrary to popular belief, organizations can succeed without having a wealthy board. The data shows that board contributions average around 15% of campaign goals, illustrating that success is achievable with a range of board structures.
• The Top-Heavy Nature of Capital Campaigns: Andrea and Amy break down the "Pareto Principle" in capital campaigns, where the top 20 gifts typically cover 70% of the campaign goal, emphasizing the importance of engaging major donors early in the process.
• Overcoming Economic and Political Uncertainty: Recorded on election day, the hosts reflect on how resilient campaigns are, even during uncertain economic or political climates. Their message? Don’t be spooked—successful campaigns continue to thrive regardless of external factors.

Tune in to gain insights, bust myths, and learn best practices that will strengthen your campaign strategy. Be sure to download the full research report at capitalcampaignpro.com/research.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, co-founders Andrea Kihlstedt and Amy Eisenstein dive into the hot topic of whether hiring a capital campaign consultant is a necessary investment or an unnecessary expense. They explore the significant role consultants play in guiding nonprofit organizations through the complex landscape of capital campaigns. From clearing up common misconceptions to highlighting the strategic advantages of expert guidance, this episode sheds light on how consultants can be the linchpin of a successful fundraising campaign.

Andrea and Amy discuss the challenges organizations face when they attempt campaigns without experienced leadership, emphasizing the value of an external consultant who brings a wealth of knowledge and an objective perspective. They share real-world examples, debunk myths, and offer practical advice for nonprofits navigating their campaign journeys.

Whether you're skeptical about the necessity of a consultant or curious about what they can bring to the table, this episode provides a thorough analysis. Discover why investing in a seasoned capital campaign consultant might just be the best decision your nonprofit can make to achieve its ambitious fundraising goals.

Tune in and learn how to maximize your campaign’s ROI and ensure a smooth, successful journey from planning to completion. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and actionable strategies from two of the leading experts in the field!

For more free capital campaign resources, visit https://capitalcampaignpro.com/campaign-resources.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, co-founder Andrea Kihlstedt speaks with Lila Thorne, former Director of Development at the Northern Forest Center, about their groundbreaking $30 million capital campaign. Lila shares the compelling story of how the Northern Forest Center launched an innovative campaign that combined philanthropy and impact investing to support communities across a 30 million-acre landscape spanning four states in the Northeastern U.S.

Lila provides a behind-the-scenes look at the unique challenges and successes of this campaign, which initially set out to raise $20 million but surpassed expectations, driving them to raise the goal to $30 million. She discusses how the organization navigated asking for major gifts and impact investments, the power of big ideas in securing support, and the importance of developing a strong, resilient fundraising team. Along the way, Lila shares valuable lessons learned, such as the importance of meticulous planning, thinking big, and investing in your team’s success.

This episode also delves into the innovative financial model that fueled the Northern Forest Center’s impact investments, how they managed to raise funds across multiple communities and states, and how they achieved success by securing significant investments from national foundations, corporations, and even a church. Lila explains how they were able to appeal to donors and investors alike by offering both philanthropic and investment opportunities, highlighting the organization’s ability to combine social good with financial returns.

Throughout the conversation, Lila recounts the personal side of her journey, managing to lead a high-stakes campaign while also becoming a mother of three. Her story is both inspiring and informative, offering key takeaways for anyone involved in nonprofit fundraising, especially those embarking on capital campaigns that blend philanthropy with innovative financing.

Tune in to learn:

• How a $20M goal turned into a $30M campaign
• The role of impact investing in nonprofit capital campaigns
• Strategies for managing large-scale, multi-community fundraising efforts
• How to cultivate a culture of asking for big gifts and why it works
• The importance of team building and leadership in campaign success

Whether you’re planning your first capital campaign or looking for ways to innovate your fundraising efforts, this episode is packed with actionable insights and real-world advice from a successful campaign leader.

Don’t miss Lila’s reflections on leading through challenges, taking risks, and achieving big goals, all while balancing work and family. Plus, hear Andrea Kihlstedt’s expert thoughts on what makes campaigns like this not only possible but successful.

Listen now to discover how you, too, can create an inspiring and effective capital campaign!

To see if your organization is truly ready for a capital campaign, download this free Readiness Assessment. This guide will help you evaluate six aspects of your organization, including the board and your case for support.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt dive into one of the most crucial aspects of campaign planning: setting a realistic and effective capital campaign goal. Whether you're building a new facility, expanding your programs, or establishing an endowment, determining the right working goal is far from simple.

Amy and Andrea discuss why a working or draft goal is essential and explore the factors that influence how much you can realistically raise for your project. They explain why organizations often misunderstand the role of feasibility studies, the importance of accounting for all project costs (from architectural fees to startup program costs), and why it's crucial to think big early in the planning process.

You'll learn how to test your goal, inspire your board—especially more conservative members—to embrace a higher target, and the risks of setting a goal that's too low. Plus, the hosts share research from their latest Capital Campaign Pro Benchmark Report, which reveals that many organizations raise their goals after a feasibility study, further emphasizing the flexibility needed in goal-setting.

Key takeaways include:

• How to create a comprehensive project budget.
• The role of a feasibility study in refining your goal.
• When and how to adjust your campaign goal throughout the process.
• How your campaign goal can inspire larger gifts from your lead donors.

Whether you're just beginning your campaign or preparing to test your goal, this episode will provide you with actionable strategies to plan and execute a successful campaign that pushes your organization to the next level.

Tune in now to get expert tips on setting a winning capital campaign goal!

To ensure your campaign ends in a celebration, download our free Capital Campaign Step-by-Step Guide & Checklist. This intuitive guide breaks down each step of your campaign, and the timeline allows you to visualize your whole campaign, from start to finish!

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, co-hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt dive deep into the critical role of CEOs and Executive Directors in leading successful capital campaigns. As the central figures, these leaders often feel overwhelmed by the complex, multi-faceted demands of a campaign, managing everything from program planning to board involvement, and campaign operations.

Amy and Andrea break down the key challenges that arise when the heads of organizations try to juggle all these responsibilities, likening the experience to taming a multi-headed beast. They share insights on how to structure a campaign leadership team, ensuring that the board, development staff, and campaign chair collaborate seamlessly. The episode offers practical advice on how to unify these moving parts into a cohesive strategy, smoothing out communication gaps and empowering every stakeholder to play their role effectively.

Listeners will learn how to create and sustain a "core committee" to drive campaign leadership, strategies for keeping all parties in lockstep, and how to prevent the typical pitfalls that occur when campaign leaders feel isolated or overburdened. Amy and Andrea also explore real-life examples from their CEO roundtable sessions, including stories of campaigns undergoing rapid organizational growth and the importance of clear communication during times of disruption.

If you're an executive director or CEO navigating the complexities of a capital campaign, this episode provides expert guidance on how to lead with confidence, streamline operations, and build strong leadership teams. Plus, gain actionable tips on fostering productive relationships with your board and campaign volunteers, and discover the importance of regular leadership team meetings for addressing roadblocks before they derail your campaign.

Tune in to learn how to transform your role as the campaign's chief communicator into one that promotes collaboration, engagement, and ultimately, campaign success!

To see if your organization is truly ready for a capital campaign, download this free Readiness Assessment. This guide will help you evaluate six aspects of your organization, including your leadership and your case for support.

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In this episode, Amy Eisenstein of Capital Campaign Pro sits down with fundraising expert Courtney Leonard, who shares her experiences from an 18-year career in philanthropy. Currently serving as the Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Clark University, Courtney delves into the challenges and triumphs of leading a $40 million comprehensive campaign at a small university.

Courtney shares how her team leveraged strategic restructuring and pre-campaign planning to ensure they stayed on track while balancing the demands of a swift timeline. She emphasizes the value of cultivating donor relationships during the quiet phase of the campaign and how maintaining open communication with constituents helped build momentum without compromising on strategy.

This episode is packed with practical advice for nonprofit leaders, from how to approach capital campaigns in smaller institutions to the importance of following a structured plan.

Tune in to hear Courtney's reflections on lessons learned, unexpected challenges, and how the right planning can set a campaign up for long-term success.

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In this episode, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss the importance of recognizing the unsung heroes of fundraising campaigns. These individuals often work behind the scenes, making crucial contributions that drive campaigns to success. Amy and Andrea share stories of meaningful and creative ways to show gratitude.

They talk about how personalized recognition, such as handwritten notes or thoughtful gifts, can have a lasting impact. Tailoring gratitude to fit each person's personality ensures the appreciation feels genuine. The hosts offer practical examples to inspire listeners to think outside the box.

Finally, Amy and Andrea encourage listeners to share their own ideas for showing gratitude. They emphasize the value of recognizing the key players in campaigns in a way that feels sincere and special to them.

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In this episode, Amy Eisenstein and Sarah Plimpton tackle a common issue in the world of fundraising—campaigns getting "stuck." Every fundraising campaign experiences ebbs and flows, but the key to success is knowing how to navigate the valleys. Together, Amy and Sarah share actionable strategies to help you get your campaign back on track.

From revisiting current donors for potential second gifts to leveraging project developments for renewed excitement, this episode is packed with insights. They also dive into the value of asking for donor advice, engaging your community foundation, and deploying targeted challenge gifts. Whether you're in the early stages of a campaign or facing a mid-point slowdown, these tips will give you the tools to reenergize your efforts.

Join Amy and Sarah as they offer practical advice and success stories from real campaigns. Learn how to turn a stalled campaign into a momentum-building success, all while maintaining strong donor relationships and inspiring your community to achieve your fundraising goals.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt dive into the delicate art of managing donor expectations when their funding ideas don’t align with your organization’s mission.

Drawing from a real-life scenario, they explore what to do when a wealthy donor offers a significant contribution—but with a catch. The donor’s vision, in this case, starting a goat farm in Africa, doesn't match the organization’s strategic goals or mission. How do you navigate this complex situation without alienating the donor?

Amy and Andrea share practical advice from a discussion with their CEO Roundtable, emphasizing the importance of sticking to your organization’s strategic plan while tactfully engaging donors in meaningful conversations.

Discover strategies for redirecting donor interests, avoiding mission creep, and preserving relationships—even when the proposed project doesn’t fit. Learn how to buy time, leverage your board, and maintain transparency with donors, all while upholding your organization’s long-term goals.

Key takeaways include:

• Tactful ways to decline donor proposals that don't align with your mission.
• How to use your board and strategic priorities as tools to guide conversations.
• The benefits of redirecting donors to other organizations when their passion projects don’t fit.
• Why generosity and collaboration with donors can lead to stronger, long-term relationships.

Andrea and Amy also highlight one of Capital Campaign Pro’s innovative services: the monthly CEO Roundtable, where nonprofit leaders from around the globe come together to discuss challenges and solutions related to capital campaigns. This episode is packed with wisdom for nonprofit leaders on how to handle tricky donor situations with grace and strategic foresight.

Tune in to learn how to keep your campaign on track, preserve donor relationships, and confidently steer your organization toward success.

Visit CapitalCampaignPro.com to learn more about how Capital Campaign Pro can help you manage your capital campaign and navigate these vital donor conversations.

Don't miss this insightful episode on managing donor expectations during your capital campaign!

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In this comprehensive episode, Andrea Kihlstedt and Chelsea Lamego dive deep into the critical aspects of managing and reporting on donor funds. Chelsea, co-founder and CEO of FundMiner, shares her expertise on overcoming the complexities of fund management, particularly in large institutions and small nonprofits alike.

The discussion highlights common challenges such as tracking funds, managing restricted gifts, and creating effective impact reports.

Chelsea provides practical advice on where responsibility for impact reporting should lie within an organization, emphasizing the importance of allocating resources wisely and engaging board members. The conversation also addresses the catch-22 of fundraising—how to ensure that the effort to raise funds translates into effective and transparent management that meets donor expectations.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into:

• Accountability: Ensuring transparency and delivering on promises made to donors.
• Impact Reporting: Moving beyond basic acknowledgments to provide meaningful updates on how donor contributions make a difference.
• Scaling Efforts: Starting with manageable reporting practices and evolving them as the organization grows.

Chelsea also shares her personal experiences and practical tips for making impact reporting a fundamental part of fundraising strategy. This episode is essential for anyone involved in development or financial management, offering actionable strategies to enhance donor relations and organizational success.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt dive deep into one of the most critical questions facing nonprofit leaders: "How do you know if your organization is ready for a capital campaign?" As seasoned campaign experts, Amy and Andrea walk you through the essential indicators that signal whether your nonprofit is prepared to embark on this significant fundraising journey.

They start by debunking a common myth: an anniversary or milestone year does not automatically qualify your organization for a capital campaign. Instead, they emphasize the importance of having a compelling, transformational idea that truly elevates your mission to the next level. Learn why a strategic plan and a well-vetted big idea are crucial before even considering launching a campaign.

Andrea and Amy also discuss the critical role of board engagement. Is your board fully committed and excited about the campaign? Do they understand the project’s implications and are they willing to step up their involvement? Without a solid and supportive board, your campaign is unlikely to succeed.

Another vital point covered in this episode is the necessity of having a history of effective fundraising. The hosts explain why having a track record of securing major gifts and maintaining robust donor relationships is key to campaign readiness. They offer practical advice for organizations that may not yet have asked for million-dollar gifts but have the potential to do so with the right preparation and approach.

Throughout the conversation, Amy and Andrea share real-life examples, including the story of a small arts organization that secured a million-dollar gift despite never having raised such an amount before. This example illustrates that with a compelling vision and the right approach, even smaller nonprofits can achieve big results.

For those who feel their organization might not be ready just yet, don’t worry—Amy and Andrea explain how the pre-campaign planning phase can be a powerful process in itself. By taking the time to prepare, you can build the necessary relationships, strengthen your board, and set the foundation for a successful campaign.

Whether you're on the brink of starting a capital campaign or just exploring the idea, this episode provides actionable insights and expert guidance to help you assess and enhance your readiness.

To ensure your campaign ends in a celebration, download our free Capital Campaign Step-by-Step Guide & Checklist. This intuitive guide breaks down each step of your campaign, and the timeline allows you to visualize your whole campaign, from start to finish!

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Andrea Kihlstedt and Amy Eisenstein dive into the art of transforming your capital campaign meetings from boring and unproductive to engaging and effective. Whether you're tired of meetings where attendance dwindles or you’re just looking to inject more energy into your sessions, this episode is packed with practical tips and strategies.

Andrea and Amy begin by discussing the critical role that meetings play in the success of a capital campaign. Campaigns often span several years and involve numerous committees and workgroups, making well-run meetings essential to maintaining momentum and engagement. They highlight the importance of designing meetings with clear objectives and meaningful participation, ensuring that every attendee feels valued and involved.

The hosts then break down the elements of a "bad meeting"—those sessions where participants check out mentally, engage in other activities like checking emails, or simply don't show up at all. They contrast this with the features of a successful meeting, where participants are eager to attend, actively contribute, and leave feeling accomplished.

Andrea and Amy provide actionable advice on how to design meetings that resonate with your team. They suggest starting every meeting with a clear purpose, engaging participants right from the beginning, and ensuring that everyone has a role to play. They also share their insights on how to handle different personalities in meetings, such as the overly talkative or the silent observer, ensuring a balanced and inclusive discussion.

The episode includes real-life examples and anecdotes that bring their tips to life, illustrating how effective meetings can propel your campaign forward. They also discuss how to use meetings as opportunities for brainstorming, decision-making, and progress reporting, making sure that every session is a step toward your campaign goals.

Whether you're meeting in person or virtually, the principles discussed in this episode apply across the board. Andrea and Amy emphasize that good meeting design is crucial, no matter the format, and they share their experiences in both in-person and virtual settings. From the importance of clear agendas to the necessity of follow-up tasks, this episode covers it all.

By the end of the episode, you’ll have a toolkit of ideas to ensure your meetings are productive, engaging, and pivotal to your campaign’s success. If you’re involved in leading or organizing meetings for a capital campaign, this episode is a must-listen. Don’t let another meeting pass by without putting these expert strategies into practice!

Join Andrea and Amy as they turn the mundane into the motivational and show you how to make every campaign meeting count. Tune in now and start transforming your meetings today!

For more free capital campaign resources, visit https://capitalcampaignpro.com/campaign-resources.

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In this episode of "All About Capital Campaigns," hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt dive into the transformative power of women in philanthropy with their special guest, Kathleen Loehr. Kathleen, a leading expert on women's giving and author of "Gender Matters: A Guide to Growing Women's Philanthropy," shares her deep insights on the unique ways women approach charitable giving and why they are often the unseen yet significant donors in capital campaigns.

Kathleen discusses the rising wealth among women and how they are becoming key decision-makers in philanthropy, often giving more and in different ways compared to their male counterparts. She highlights the importance of curiosity in fundraising, encouraging organizations to ask insightful questions and truly understand the motivations and values of women donors. Kathleen also challenges the traditional fundraising practices that were established with male donors in mind, emphasizing the need to adapt these strategies to better resonate with women and other unseen donors.

Throughout the episode, Kathleen offers practical advice on how to engage women donors effectively, from data mining and asking the right questions to understanding the complexities of women's relationships with money. She also touches on the growing trend of collective giving among women and how role models like MacKenzie Scott and Melinda Gates are inspiring more women to make significant contributions.

Whether you're a seasoned fundraiser or new to the world of capital campaigns, this episode is packed with valuable insights that will help you better engage with women donors and unlock their full philanthropic potential. Don’t miss out on this enlightening conversation that could transform your approach to fundraising.

Tune in to learn how you can start seeing and valuing the unseen donors in your campaigns!

For more free capital campaign resources, visit https://capitalcampaignpro.com/campaign-resources.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt dive deep into the critical roles that board members play in a successful capital campaign.

With decades of experience, Amy and Andrea share practical insights and actionable advice on how to fully engage your board members, ensuring everyone is aligned and contributing effectively to the campaign’s success.

The episode kicks off with a discussion on the importance of evaluating and possibly restructuring your board before launching a campaign. Andrea emphasizes the need to ensure all board members are not just present, but also fully engaged and excited about the campaign. They discuss how to identify and politely transition those who may not be a good fit for the campaign’s demands.

Amy and Andrea then explore several key roles that board members should take on during the campaign. From selecting the right consultant and making a stretch gift, to serving as advocates and solicitors, the hosts provide a comprehensive overview of how each role can contribute to the overall success of the campaign.

They also discuss the significance of board members making meaningful gifts that are significant to them, regardless of the amount.

The hosts highlight the importance of involving board members early in the process, particularly in the selection of a campaign consultant. Andrea points out that this not only aids in selecting the right partner but also serves as a valuable educational experience for the board members.

A key takeaway from this episode is the idea that not every board member needs to be comfortable with asking for donations, but all should support the fundraising efforts in their own way. Amy and Andrea offer tips on how to identify board members who are natural askers and how to train them for success.

Throughout the episode, Amy and Andrea share practical tips on how to keep board members motivated and engaged, such as involving them in prospect brainstorming sessions and leveraging social media to expand their networks.

If you're preparing for a capital campaign or are in the midst of one, this episode is packed with valuable strategies to help you maximize your board’s potential. Don’t miss the chance to download the free Board Member’s Guide to Capital Campaigns available on the Capital Campaign Pro website under the Resources tab. This guide provides even more detailed insights into board members’ roles and responsibilities during a campaign.

Tune in to learn how to turn your board members into your campaign’s biggest champions, and be sure to share this episode with your fellow board members and fundraising team.

For more board engagement tips, be sure to download our free Board Member’s Guide to Capital Campaign Fundraising. It answers the questions board members most frequently ask, or wish they could ask.

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In this eye-opening episode, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt address the critical issue of rampant fraud that can impact anyone, including nonprofits and individuals.

Andrea shares her personal experience of check fraud and offers practical advice on how to prevent it. From using indelible ink pens to the importance of regularly monitoring bank accounts, they cover essential tips to safeguard your finances.

Tune in for a vital public service announcement that aims to protect your personal and organizational funds from fraudulent activities.

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Are you worried that a capital campaign might cannibalize your annual fund? If so, you’re not alone! And in this podcast, campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt will tell you what to do to make sure that doesn’t happen.

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Amy and Andrea are joined by campaign expert, Xan Blake, in a lively conversation about boards and capital campaigns. Xan suggests that for the early planning phases of a campaign, board members should be in learning mode. Once the campaign plan takes shape, your board will move into a more active role that falls into three buckets: organizing, advocating and participating.

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Fundraising is part art, part science. In this episode, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss the fine art of asking donors for advice.

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In this episode, campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt have some fun role-playing examples of asking donors for complex gifts that combine campaign, annual and planned giving.

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In this insightful episode, Andrea Kihlstedt and Dedee Wilner-Nugent dive into the transformative power of adopting a growth mindset, particularly in the context of capital campaigns.

As fundraising professionals know, embarking on a capital campaign can be daunting, fraught with challenges and uncertainties. Dedee, a senior advisor at Capital Campaign Pro, shares her deep understanding of mindsets and explains how a growth mindset—characterized by resilience, adaptability, and positivity—can be the key to overcoming the inherent stresses of fundraising.

Throughout the conversation, Andrea and Dedee explore practical strategies for cultivating a growth mindset, from harnessing optimism and engaging in positive self-talk to thinking like a scientist when faced with setbacks.

Dedee offers compelling anecdotes from her experience with various organizations, illustrating how shifting from a fixed to a growth mindset not only mitigates anxiety but also opens the door to greater opportunities and successes in capital campaigns.

Whether you're a seasoned fundraiser or new to the field, this episode provides valuable insights into how a growth mindset can enhance both your personal and professional life.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt delve into the essential, yet often overlooked, aspect of fundraising: understanding why donors choose to give.

Andrea starts by challenging the conventional focus on donors' financial capacities and emphasizes the importance of uncovering the underlying motivations behind their generosity. She points out that while organizations invest heavily in researching donors' financial backgrounds, they often neglect to explore the personal reasons that drive major gifts.

They discuss several tactics to better understand donor motivations, such as analyzing previous donations, recognizing patterns in their philanthropy, and identifying personal connections to specific causes. Andrea likens this process to being a "Sherlock Holmes of fundraising," where every detail about a donor's interests and behaviors can provide valuable clues.

Join Amy and Andrea in this engaging episode to gain valuable insights and practical strategies for unlocking the motivations of your major donors and transforming your fundraising efforts.

Visit capitalcampaignpro.com for more free resources and to explore how our expert campaign advisors can assist in strategizing and executing effective capital campaigns.

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Join Andrea Kihlstedt, co-founder of Capital Campaign Pro, and her colleague, senior campaign advisor Richard Quinn, as they unravel the secrets behind successful capital campaigns and effective fundraising strategies.

In each episode, Andrea and Richard delve into core principles of capital campaign fundraising, offering practical insights and real-world applications. Discover how to set ambitious goals, prioritize big donations, engage key donors, and create a timeline that ensures success.

Through engaging discussions, Andrea and Richard reveal how these principles can transform annual fundraising efforts, turning conventional strategies on their head and injecting new life into your campaigns.

Whether you're a seasoned fundraiser or new to the field, "Campaign Chronicles" provides the tools and inspiration you need to achieve your fundraising goals and elevate your organization's mission.

Tune in to learn from the experts and revolutionize your approach to fundraising.

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In this episode of "All About Capital Campaigns," Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt dive into the essentials of prioritizing major gift fundraising. If you are a development director feeling overwhelmed by urgent tasks, this episode is for you. .

Amy and Andrea discuss how to shift your focus to the important work of cultivating and soliciting major gifts, which are crucial for successful fundraising and capital campaigns.

Key Highlights:

• The importance of major gift fundraising in moving the needle for nonprofit organizations.
• Practical strategies for freeing up time in your schedule to focus on major donors.
• The three key activities for engaging major donors: cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• How to identify and prioritize potential major donors.
• Tips for delegating tasks and eliminating less productive fundraising activities.
• Real-life examples and actionable advice on building strong donor relationships.
• The significance of involving your board and leveraging their support for major gift fundraising.

This episode is packed with valuable insights for nonprofit leaders, executive directors, and development directors who are looking to enhance their fundraising efforts. Amy and Andrea offer clear and practical advice on how to manage your time better and focus on activities that will significantly boost your fundraising outcomes. Whether you're in the middle of a capital campaign or planning for one, these strategies will help you cultivate major donors effectively and ensure your organization's long-term success.

Tune in to learn how to balance your urgent tasks with the crucial work of engaging major donors, and discover the steps you can take to double your fundraising revenue by prioritizing the right activities.

Listen to the full episode for more tips and strategies on major gift fundraising!For more free capital campaign resources, visit https://capitalcampaignpro.com/campaign-resources.

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Campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt question the traditional practice of naming buildings and room after large-gift donors. While that approach may be right for some organization, it may be worth reconsidering for others.

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In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt tackle the complex relationship between fundraising campaigns and project financing. Do you need to raise all the money before the groundbreaking for your new project? How does the timing of your campaign affect its success? Buckle up as Amy and Andrea unravel these questions and provide actionable strategies for navigating the financial planning of your capital campaign.

Key Highlights:

1. Understanding Project vs. Campaign Funding: Learn why it’s a common misconception that all funds must be raised before breaking ground and explore alternative funding sources including reserves, government support, and financing options.
2. Financial Planning Insights: Discover the importance of engaging financial experts early in the process to create multiple funding scenarios, considering factors like interest rates and cash reserves.
3. Timing and Milestones: Understand the critical timing of fundraising milestones, including the significance of groundbreaking and ribbon-cutting events in your campaign timeline.
4. Engaging Key Stakeholders: Tips on involving community leaders, board members, and potential donors in financial planning to build strong support and ensure campaign success.
5. Case Studies and Real-World Examples: Hear about how organizations like hospitals and YMCAs structure their funding and campaigns to manage large projects successfully.
6. Creating Flexible Plans: The importance of having Plan A, B, and C to adapt to different fundraising outcomes and financial scenarios.

Andrea and Amy also emphasize the crucial role of early donor engagement and financial planning in ensuring the sustainability and success of your capital campaign. Whether you're in the pre-campaign planning phase or gearing up for your public launch, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice to help you navigate the complexities of project and campaign funding.

Join us for an enlightening discussion that will leave you better equipped to lead your capital campaign to success!

For more free capital campaign resources, visit https://capitalcampaignpro.com/campaign-resources.

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In this episode of "All About Capital Campaigns," join Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt as they reveal a groundbreaking approach to capital campaign consulting that empowers nonprofits to take control of their fundraising efforts. Discover the transformative formula that steers away from traditional, costly consulting methods, and instead, leverages technology and community to provide a scalable, more effective form of support.

Amy and Andrea dive deep into why traditional consulting often falls short, emphasizing how their method focuses on equipping organizations with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed independently. They detail their innovative online toolkit comprised of over 130 resources, designed to guide nonprofits through every phase of a campaign, from planning to execution.

The discussion also covers the benefits of peer support groups and group coaching, explaining how these forums offer a platform for shared learning and problem-solving, enhancing the collective experience. Andrea shares insights into the dynamic nature of these groups, highlighting how they foster a collaborative environment where participants learn not only from experts but from each other's experiences and challenges.

Moreover, the episode explores the pivotal role of technology in modernizing capital campaign strategies. Amy and Andrea discuss how digital tools have removed geographical and logistical barriers, enabling more frequent and cost-effective interactions that keep campaigns agile and responsive.

Listeners will also get a firsthand look at the enriched training programs that the duo offers, including solicitation training and board training, which are crucial for building confidence and competence among nonprofit teams.

The episode concludes with a call to action, inviting listeners to engage directly with Amy and Andrea through their website to explore how this innovative consulting model can be tailored to their organization's needs. Whether you're a seasoned nonprofit professional or new to the field of fundraising, this episode provides invaluable insights into making capital campaigns more accessible, less intimidating, and significantly more successful.

Tune in to "All About Capital Campaigns" for a detailed discussion that promises not only to enlighten but also to inspire your next fundraising venture.

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In this episode of "All About Capital Campaigns," Andrea Kihlstedt, co-founder of Capital Campaign Pro, delves into the intriguing world of donor-advised funds and community foundations, breaking down their complexity and revealing how they can be a game-changer for your fundraising efforts.

With guest expert Laura Young, a former vice president at the Maine Community Foundation and a seasoned capital campaign consultant, this episode offers a rare insight into both the advantages and the subtleties of engaging with community foundations.

Laura shares her journey from consulting to managing philanthropic efforts and explains why donor-advised funds can be a smart choice for donors looking to make a significant impact while gaining tax advantages. The discussion also covers practical tips for development directors on how to navigate and leverage relationships with community foundations to support their organizations' goals.

This episode is packed with actionable advice, including how to:

• Approach community foundations and integrate their focus areas with your organization's mission.
• Use donor-advised funds to streamline giving and engage younger generations in philanthropy.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with donors who contribute through community foundations.

Whether you're a nonprofit leader, a development professional, or simply interested in the mechanics of philanthropic giving, this episode provides valuable insights into making the most of community foundations and donor-advised funds.

Tune in to learn how these vehicles can provide strategic advantages to your fundraising efforts and help you connect more deeply with your donors.

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Join hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt as they unravel the complexities of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) in retirement accounts and how they can become a strategic opportunity for philanthropy.

Learn why fundraisers must grasp this concept, empowering them to engage donors effectively and maximize charitable giving potential. Dive into real-life examples and practical insights to navigate RMDs confidently, ensuring donors' philanthropic goals align seamlessly with their financial planning.

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In this episode, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt provide more insight into engaging the wealthiest people in town for your campaign. Listen to learn how to identify, research, and cultivate them for your capital campaign.

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In this episode of "All About Capital Campaigns," hosts Andrea Kihlstedt and Amy Eisenstein tackle one of the most challenging aspects of capital campaigning: identifying and securing lead donors. If your nonprofit is grappling with a shortage of lead donors or struggling to predict where significant campaign contributions will come from, this episode is a must-listen.

Andrea Kihlstedt sets the stage by explaining the importance of the gift range chart and the depth chart—two critical tools in capital campaign planning. She details how these tools help organizations strategize the number and size of donations needed to meet campaign goals, and more importantly, how they guide the identification of potential lead donors.

Amy Eisenstein simplifies these concepts further, discussing how different types of organizations might adjust their gift charts based on their donor base. She uses relatable examples, like comparing donor bases of an animal shelter versus an independent school, to illustrate how these charts are modified.

The conversation also covers the real-world challenges nonprofits face in filling the top tiers of their gift range charts. Amy and Andrea discuss strategies for engaging potential donors who may not initially seem capable of making top-tier donations but can become key contributors through strategic cultivation and multiple gift requests.

Listeners will gain insight into the practical use of the depth chart, learning how to populate it with names against each gift level and how it serves as a dynamic tool guiding donor engagement throughout the campaign.

This episode is packed with actionable advice, including how to:

• Use gift range and depth charts to strategically plan your capital campaign.
• Identify and engage potential lead donors based on their capacity and relationship with your organization.
• Adjust your fundraising strategies according to the breadth and depth of your donor base.

For more resources, visit our website at capitalcampaignpro.com where you can access tools like our readiness assessment to help determine if your organization is prepared for a capital campaign.

Whether you are a seasoned fundraiser or new to the field, understanding these fundamental aspects of campaign planning will enhance your ability to secure the vital lead gifts that drive campaign success. Tune in to empower your fundraising team with the knowledge and tools necessary to transform your campaign's potential into reality.

To see if your organization is truly ready for a capital campaign, download this free Readiness Assessment https://capitalcampaignpro.com/assess - This guide will help you evaluate six aspects of your organization, including the board and your case for support.

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In this episode of "All About Capital Campaigns," we dive into an enlightening conversation with Esther Landau, the Senior Director of Advancement at The Arc of San Francisco. Join host Amy Eisenstein as she explores the strategic planning and execution behind successful capital campaigns, focusing on The Arc's innovative approach to expanding its programs and services.

Esther shares the origins of their campaign, rooted in a strategic planning process with stakeholders, aimed at enhancing program accessibility by addressing staffing and compensation. We delve into the campaign's journey, highlighting its mid-point status and the critical role of a feasibility study in refining their messaging to resonate more deeply with potential donors.

Esther's insights into the nuances of donor engagement, staff compensation, and the impact of waitlists on both the community served and potential supporters offer a rich narrative on the challenges and triumphs faced by nonprofits in the fundraising arena.

Amy and Esther discuss the importance of maintaining annual fund contributions during a capital campaign, offering practical strategies for navigating donor expectations and ensuring sustained support for ongoing operations. They tackle the unforeseen hurdles of the campaign, sharing valuable lessons learned from engaging with donors and the community through innovative communication methods, including the strategic use of video testimonials and personalized outreach.

As we journey through The Arc's campaign, this episode illuminates the complexities and rewards of capital campaigning, offering actionable advice and inspiration for nonprofit leaders looking to embark on their fundraising ventures. From the strategic use of donor discussion guides to the importance of board member engagement and leveraging technology for donor outreach, listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the ingredients for a successful capital campaign.

Tune in to this episode of "All About Capital Campaigns" for a deep dive into how The Arc of San Francisco is transforming challenges into opportunities for growth and impact, setting a benchmark for excellence in nonprofit fundraising.

To see how other nonprofit organizations have found success through Capital Campaign Pro's unique model, visit https://capitalcampaignpro.com/clients/

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In this episode of "All About Capital Campaigns," join fundraising experts Andrea Kihlstedt and Amy Eisenstein as they dive deep into the essence of giving through personal stories and insights.

Discover the profound impact of building genuine relationships with donors and learn how personal connections can transform the landscape of fundraising.

Andrea shares her touching experience with a theater company in New York, highlighting the strength of loyalty and the remarkable effect of personal care in donor relations. Amy adds to the conversation by recounting her involvement with a food pantry, demonstrating how emergencies can foster increased generosity among already supportive donors.

Together, they explore the surprising revelations of their own philanthropic actions, shedding light on the unexpected joy and fulfillment that come from giving more than once a year. Through these personal anecdotes and expert advice, this episode offers valuable lessons on engaging donors, expressing gratitude, and the importance of maintaining communication, especially during challenging times.

Whether you're a fundraiser looking to deepen your approach to donor engagement or a donor curious about the impact of your contributions, this episode will leave you inspired to foster stronger connections within your charitable endeavors.

For more free capital campaign resources, visit https://capitalcampaignpro.com/campaign-resources

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In this episode of "All About Capital Campaigns," Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt delve into the crucial yet often overlooked aspect of campaign goals versus project costs. While not the most glamorous topic, it's undeniably essential for any organization embarking on a fundraising endeavor. What do you do when your project costs exceed your fundraising potential?

Join Amy and Andrea as they explore practical solutions for bridging funding gaps in capital campaigns. From leveraging cash reserves and exploring financing options to tapping into government funding, they provide valuable insights into alternative revenue streams that can supplement philanthropic contributions.

Discover how to navigate the complexities of project financing, including considerations such as debt management, government grant policies, and the strategic allocation of funds. Whether you're a nonprofit, educational institution, or community organization, this episode offers actionable advice for optimizing your campaign's financial structure.

Don't let funding challenges derail your project aspirations. Tune in to learn how to strategize effectively, engage your board, and unlock the diverse funding opportunities available to ensure the success of your capital campaign.

Plus, find out how Capital Campaign Pro can provide personalized support and expertise to guide you through every stage of your campaign journey. Join the conversation and empower your organization to turn ambitious visions into tangible realities.

To see if your organization is truly ready for a capital campaign, download this free Readiness Assessment. This guide will help you evaluate six aspects of your organization, including the board and your case for support.

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In this episode of "All About Capital Campaigns," hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt delve into the critical components of accountability, habits, and motivation in the context of fundraising campaigns. Drawing on their extensive experience, they explore real-life scenarios highlighting the significance of staying accountable and cultivating productive habits.

Discover the importance of taking concrete actions in fundraising endeavors, moving beyond procrastination and excuses. Eisenstein and Kihlstedt share practical insights on fostering motivation and developing consistent habits, essential for achieving success in capital campaigns.

From scheduling donor calls to setting measurable goals, they offer actionable strategies for maintaining momentum and achieving fundraising targets. Learn how external accountability partners and structured systems can enhance campaign effectiveness, ensuring progress towards fundraising goals.

Whether you're a development director, executive director, or involved in fundraising efforts, this episode provides invaluable guidance on navigating the challenges of capital campaigns. Tune in to gain actionable insights and elevate your fundraising initiatives to new heights.

To see if your organization is truly ready for a capital campaign, download this free Readiness Assessment. This guide will help you evaluate six aspects of your organization, including the board and your case for support.

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In this episode, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt delve into the often misunderstood quiet phase of fundraising campaigns. Contrary to its name, the quiet phase doesn't mean complete silence. Instead, it's a strategic period where organizations focus on soliciting major gifts while keeping the campaign goal discreet.

Amy and Andrea demystify the quiet phase, emphasizing the importance of discussing project details while keeping fundraising targets confidential. They highlight the significance of flexibility during this phase, allowing for adjustments to campaign goals based on early donor responses.

Additionally, they stress the use of draft materials over elaborate brochures to accommodate evolving project plans. Through insightful examples and practical advice, Amy and Andrea provide clarity on navigating the quiet phase effectively, ensuring a strong foundation for a successful fundraising campaign.

Tune in to gain valuable insights into managing the quiet phase and setting the stage for fundraising triumphs. If you're embarking on a capital campaign journey, this episode is a must-listen!

To ensure your quiet phase leads to a loud celebration, download our free Capital Campaign Step-by-Step Guide & Checklist. This intuitive guide breaks down each step of your campaign, and the timeline allows you to visualize your whole campaign, from start to finish!

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In this episode, Amy Eisenstein and special guest Sarah Plimpton, Director of Client Happiness, delve into the critical importance of thoughtful donor cultivation before soliciting gifts for a campaign.

Discover the art of asking meaningful questions that inspire donors and prepare both parties for the big ask. From uncovering donors' philanthropic passions to exploring their visions for the organization's future, Amy and Sarah share invaluable insights and strategies to deepen donor relationships.

Learn how to navigate conversations, foster donor generosity, and enhance the joy of giving, ultimately leading to more impactful campaign contributions. Whether you're embarking on a fundraising campaign or seeking to strengthen donor engagement, this episode offers practical tips and thought-provoking questions to elevate your fundraising efforts.

Tune in to discover how you can unlock the potential of joyful giving in your nonprofit endeavors.

For more free capital campaign resources, visit https://capitalcampaignpro.com/campaign-resources.

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In this episode, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt delve into the crucial indicators that your organization might not be prepared for a capital campaign. From lacking a clear vision to insufficient fundraising staff and history, they outline five telltale signs that necessitate strategic planning and preparation before embarking on such a significant fundraising endeavor.

With insightful anecdotes and practical advice, Amy and Andrea offer guidance on how to assess your organization's readiness and take actionable steps to ensure a successful campaign in the future.

Tune in to learn how to navigate the complexities of fundraising and set your organization on the path to fundraising success.

To see if your organization is truly ready for a capital campaign, download this free Readiness Assessment - this guide will help you evaluate six aspects of your organization, including the board and your case for support.

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In this episode, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt dissect the enigmatic message when donors express reluctance to meet. Through candid anecdotes and strategic insights, they unveil the layers beneath such responses and offer actionable steps for fundraisers.

Discover why a "no" doesn't equate to rejection and learn how to navigate various scenarios with empathy and persistence. From deciphering genuine disinterest to uncovering hidden opportunities, this episode empowers fundraisers to forge meaningful connections and transform setbacks into triumphs.

Tune in for invaluable tips on nurturing donor relationships and turning "nos" into "yeses" in your fundraising journey.

For more free capital campaign resources, visit https://capitalcampaignpro.com/campaign-resources/

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In this episode, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt delve into the crucial aspects of successfully concluding your capital campaign. Celebrating five years of Capital Campaign Pro's business journey, they share insights on how to effectively wrap up your campaign and celebrate its accomplishments.

Learn why the completion of a campaign is just the beginning, and discover strategies for ensuring lasting donor engagement and organizational success. From acknowledging hardworking staff to tying up loose ends with donors, volunteers, and committees, Amy and Andrea provide actionable tips for a seamless campaign wrap-up.

Explore the significance of internal and external campaign reports, and understand their role in informing future fundraising efforts. Discover the importance of celebrations in smoothing out the bumps in your campaign journey and fostering a sense of accomplishment among stakeholders.

Whether you're on the brink of completing your campaign or planning for future fundraising endeavors, this episode offers invaluable insights to guide you through the final stages of your capital campaign journey.

Don't miss out on this episode filled with practical advice and inspiration for celebrating success in your fundraising endeavors!

To ensure your campaign ends in a celebration, download our free Capital Campaign Step-by-Step Guide & Checklist - This intuitive guide breaks down each step of your campaign, and the timeline allows you to visualize your whole campaign, from start to finish!

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In this episode, we have an inspiring success story featuring Kari Viola-Brooke, the Executive Director of Child Enrichment in Augusta, Georgia. Join us as Kari shares her journey from facing doubts following a discouraging feasibility study to raising a remarkable $6.3 million for their much-needed new facility.

Discover the strategies and lessons learned, including the power of asking for advice, building strong support teams, and reframing your perspective on fundraising. Whether you're embarking on a capital campaign or seeking insights into effective fundraising, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.

To see if a DIY capital campaign is right for you, download this free eBook - The Fundraiser's Guide to Do-It-Yourself Capital Campaigns - It includes a checklist for deciding if DIY is right for you.

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In this episode, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss what to do when your feasibility study results are disappointing. They emphasize the importance of not letting fear of disappointing results deter you from conducting a feasibility study, as it provides crucial data for making informed decisions.

They share insights on how to handle such situations, including avoiding magical thinking, exploring alternative funding sources, and considering project phasing. They stress the significance of engaging key donors and maintaining a campaign mindset to turn challenges into opportunities for success.

Don't miss this valuable advice on planning a successful capital campaign, even when faced with unexpected results.

To see if your organization is truly ready for a capital campaign, download this free Readiness Assessment. This guide will help you evaluate six aspects of your organization, including the board and your case for support.

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In this episode, hosts Andrea Kihlstedt and Amy Eisenstein dive deep into the world of soliciting major gifts, particularly focusing on the top 10 to 20 donors.

Discover the strategic complexity behind soliciting these substantial gifts and why they can make or break your campaign's success. The hosts emphasize the importance of meticulous planning and thorough research in the solicitation process.

You'll gain insights into crafting a compelling plan, understanding your donor's motivations, and assembling the right cultivation team. Learn how to initiate exploratory conversations that lead to mutual understanding and trust-building with your potential donors.

The hosts share real-life examples of how organizations navigated the solicitation process, including challenges and solutions they encountered along the way. You'll hear about the power of patience, negotiation, and adaptability in building relationships that result in successful major gifts.

If you're ready to elevate your major gift solicitation game and secure significant contributions for your campaign, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now and unlock the secrets to effectively soliciting top donors for your nonprofit's success.

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In this episode, Amy Eisenstein, CEO and co-founder of Capital Campaign Pro, and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss the often-overlooked but crucial aspect of campaign success—campaign mindset and donor engagement. They delve into the importance of engaging potential donors long before soliciting gifts, emphasizing the significance of building relationships and seeking advice from philanthropic leaders in your community.

Learn how adopting a generative approach to capital campaigns can lead to not only fundraising success but also a more enjoyable and rewarding journey. Discover the real secret to campaign success in this insightful podcast episode.

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In this episode, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt explore the age-old question: Do you really need a consultant for your capital campaign? We delve into the pros and cons of hiring a consultant for your campaign and provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.

Amy Eisenstein, CEO and co-founder of Capital Campaign Pros, along with her colleague and co-founder, Andrea Kihlstedt, share their extensive experience and evolving perspectives on the role of consultants in capital campaigns.

Traditionally, organizations seeking to embark on a capital campaign would hire a consultant to conduct a feasibility study and guide them through the campaign process. However, the landscape has shifted with the advent of technology and innovative solutions. Amy and Andrea introduce a new model that leverages technology to make campaign support more accessible and cost-effective.

Their journey began with the vision of providing nonprofit leaders with a toolkit of samples and templates, granting them access to critical tools employed by campaign consultants. Instead of relying solely on consultants, they aimed to empower nonprofit leaders to lead successful campaigns.
Discover the two levels of support they offer:

1. Do It Yourself (DIY) Support System: Ideal for organizations that prefer not to hire a full-on campaign consultant but still want access to essential resources, strategy, and best practices. This level includes an online toolkit, weekly group coaching, peer support, an email helpline, and a range of online training modules.
2. Expert Advisor Support: For organizations seeking more personalized guidance, they offer expert advisors who work one-on-one with clients in an advising capacity, ensuring they have the support needed to succeed.

Throughout this episode, Amy and Andrea highlight the importance of having a structured approach to campaign planning, regardless of whether you opt for full-service consulting or the DIY route. They emphasize the value of weekly peer support and group coaching calls, where participants gain insights from their peers and learn from real-world campaign experiences.

The message is clear: You have choices when it comes to campaign consulting. Whether you decide to engage a consultant or prefer a more hands-on approach, Amy and Andrea are passionate about helping organizations avoid stalled and failed campaigns by providing access to expertise, guidance, and support.If you're curious about the future of capital campaigns and want to explore innovative alternatives, visit CapitalCampaignPro.com. You'll find information on their DIY support system, consulting options, and an array of free resources to help you make informed decisions about your campaign strategy.

Don't miss this enlightening discussion on the evolving landscape of capital campaigns and how you can choose the right approach for your organization's success. Tune in now, and let Amy and Andrea be your guides on this journey to fundraising excellence.

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In this episode, Amy Eisenstein, your host, and special guest Xan Blake, a Capital Campaign Pro supreme advisor with decades of experience in nonprofit consulting, dive deep into the critical topic of cultivation. Many people are confused about what cultivation really means in the context of capital campaigns, and in this enlightening conversation, Amy and Xan demystify the concept.

Cultivation, as Xan explains, is an organized effort to grow a supporter or potential supporter's interest in your organization. It involves ensuring that donors have accurate information, understanding their initial connection to your organization, and asking questions to avoid making assumptions about their interests. The goal is to better inform donors about your organization and strengthen their attachment to it.

They emphasize the importance of two-way communication in cultivation, where organizations not only share their stories and facts but also actively engage donors by getting to know their motivations, interests, and philanthropic goals. It's a dynamic process that involves building relationships and trust.

Xan and Amy also discuss campaign-specific cultivation, offering insights into how to approach donors at different stages of their relationship with your organization. They stress the significance of tailoring your cultivation efforts based on where donors fall on the spectrum of familiarity with your organization.

Furthermore, the podcast explores the idea of organic cultivation opportunities, where meaningful conversations can lead to unexpected and substantial gifts. Amy and Xan share inspiring examples of how simple, genuine interactions can lead to extraordinary results.

Throughout the episode, you'll gain valuable insights into cultivating donors effectively during capital campaigns, whether through one-on-one conversations, events, or spontaneous organic opportunities. Don't miss this episode if you want to enhance your cultivation strategies and build stronger relationships with your supporters.

Tune in and discover the power of cultivation in fundraising success.

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Embark on a journey with Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt as they delve into the critical aspect of staffing for a successful capital campaign. In this episode, they unravel the complexities of determining who does what, emphasizing the need for a well-equipped team to navigate the intricacies of fundraising. Whether you're a seasoned nonprofit or a founder-run organization, staffing considerations are paramount.

Discover diverse staffing models through real-world examples, including insights from a New York-based organization with an involved executive director and a special projects lead. Amy and Andrea stress the importance of acknowledging your organization's unique needs and leveraging existing resources. Uncover the art of identifying underutilized talents within your development team and explore the potential to optimize your campaign budget for additional staffing.

Join the conversation as they share a valuable exercise to assess your development office's capacity, helping you pinpoint areas for improvement and potential delegation. Learn how staffing decisions during a campaign offer a Trojan horse opportunity, allowing you to enhance your development shop, implement new systems, and strategically invest in your organization's future.

As a bonus, visit capitalcampaignpro.com for free resources, including a development office assessment to gauge your readiness for a campaign. Whether you're a nonprofit professional or a curious board member, this episode is a must-listen for anyone considering or embarking on a capital campaign journey. Tune in now to elevate your understanding of staffing dynamics and set your campaign on the path to success.

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Join us on this insightful episode of "All About Capital Campaigns" as Andrea Kihlstedt engages in a candid conversation with Jacqueline House, Vice President of Communications and Community Involvement at Safe Children Coalition in Sarasota, Florida. Jacqueline, a trailblazing woman of color, shares her journey in fundraising and communications, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of leading a $7.5 million capital campaign in an organization undergoing significant transformation.

Discover how Jacqueline's strength, courage, and strategic approach have propelled her through the complexities of fundraising in a predominantly white-led organization. Gain valuable insights into the dynamics of being a person of color in leadership and the nuanced strategies employed to navigate unconscious biases.

Explore the intricacies of Safe Children Coalition's capital campaign, unraveling the unique challenges and successes along the way. With a working goal that may surpass $7.5 million, Jacqueline reflects on the organization's progress, touching on the importance of a hands-on approach and the decision to work with a non-traditional capital campaign model.

In this episode, Jacqueline shares her wisdom for those considering roles in capital campaign leadership, emphasizing the need for a broad and deep development background, an entrepreneurial spirit, flexibility, and the ability to pivot when needed. Learn from her experiences as she discusses the power of setting clear goals and the determination required to achieve them, fostering change and making a lasting impact.

Tune in to gain valuable insights into the world of capital campaigns, diversity in fundraising, and the transformative power of strategic leadership. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your journey in fundraising, this episode provides a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to empower your efforts. Don't miss this compelling conversation on "All About Capital Campaigns."

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In this episode, Amy and Andrea explore the art of setting the right campaign goal. Is there such a thing as a "right" goal, and how do you determine it?

Discover the three key considerations organizations must keep in mind when establishing their campaign goals. First and foremost, what do you need the money for? Amy and Andrea guide you through aligning your financial objectives with the impactful outcomes you aim to achieve. Learn how to connect your campaign goal to your organization's strategic plan and avoid arbitrary figures that lack purpose.

Explore the importance of dreaming big and pushing boundaries when it comes to your campaign goal. The hosts share insights on assessing your organization's risk tolerance and why calculated risks can lead to breathtaking results. Amy and Andrea provide practical advice on refining your goal by analyzing your donor base and identifying potential lead donors.

Don't miss out on valuable tips for donor research, including the RFM (recency, frequency, monetary) and ABC (ability, belief, contact) acronyms. Uncover the significance of testing your goals through feasibility studies and ensuring they align with exciting projects that resonate with your community.

Join us in this episode as we inspire you to think big, set ambitious goals, and make a lasting impact in your community. Whether you're planning a campaign for a new building or a groundbreaking initiative, Amy and Andrea's expertise will guide you toward success. Tune in and embark on your journey to crafting the perfect campaign goal that drives meaningful change.

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In this episode, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt share a quick 15-minute readiness quiz to determine if your organization is ready for a capital campaign. Whether you're considering a million or $100 million campaign, these three simple questions will guide you in assessing your preparedness.

• Question 1: What's the purpose of your campaign? Discover why it's crucial to articulate a compelling case that resonates beyond your organization and learn the key elements that make your cause stand out.
• Question 2: Who are your top 20 donors? Identify the individuals, corporations, and foundations capable of making significant contributions to propel your campaign forward. Amy and Andrea provide insights into creating a gift range chart to target those transformative gifts.
• Question 3: Who's already engaged? Once you've listed your potential donors, pinpoint those who are already connected and involved in your project. Learn why this step is critical to gauging your campaign's feasibility.

While this episode offers a high-level overview, visit capitalcampaignpro.com for in-depth readiness assessments covering board readiness, development office readiness, technology systems, and overall campaign readiness. Remember, preparing for a campaign is a process, and these foundational steps are essential for success. Tune in to learn more, and let's get your capital campaign journey started!

For detailed readiness assessments and comprehensive campaign preparation, visit capitalcampaignpro.com.

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In this episode, Amy Eisenstein, joined by special guest Sarah Plimpton, the Director of Client Happiness at Capital Campaign Pro, dives deep into an effective strategy for keeping your capital campaign prospects organized during the quiet phase. Discover the ABCD method, a straightforward approach to categorizing and managing your prospect pipeline. From the initial discovery phase to making the ask, learn how to strategically navigate each step, ensuring a steady stream of prospective donors for your campaign leaders.

Tune in to explore the benefits of the ABCD method, gain insights into distinguishing between different prospect categories, and understand how this approach can be a game-changer for both campaign leaders and volunteers. Whether you're a seasoned development director or new to the world of capital campaigns, this episode provides actionable tips and real-world examples to enhance your campaign planning and execution.

Don't miss this opportunity to simplify your prospect management, forecast effectively, and empower your team and volunteers with a proven strategy. Join Amy and Sarah in this insightful conversation and take the first step towards mastering the art of capital campaign organization.

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In this episode, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss the critical role of campaign committees in your fundraising efforts. They delve into why the traditional long-term campaign committee structure often fails and propose a more effective approach by creating short-term, specialized committees.

Discover how breaking down the campaign into phases and forming committees for specific tasks can help engage and motivate volunteers. Learn about the benefits of ad hoc, or "pop-up," committees, which allow you to leverage people's skills and talents in a way that suits their interests and expertise.

Amy and Andrea also explain the importance of a core committee to oversee the campaign and a steering committee to provide updates and deal with challenges. These insider groups keep volunteers informed, connected, and committed to the campaign's success.

Whether you're a seasoned campaign professional or new to fundraising, this episode provides valuable insights and practical advice for optimizing your campaign committee structure. Don't miss out on this expert guidance from Capital Campaign Pro!

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Join us for another episode of "All About Capital Campaigns" where we delve into the intricacies of running a successful capital campaign. In this episode, our host Amy Eisenstein is joined by Jodi Pink, the Development Director at Friends Academy. Jodi shares her incredible journey of raising funds for the school's capital campaign, exceeding their goal, and getting their middle school renovation done in record time.

Discover how they tackled challenges, the power of a compelling case for support, and how guided feasibility studies played a pivotal role in their success. Jodi's experiences will inspire you and provide valuable insights for your own capital campaign journey. Tune in to learn from the best and get inspired to achieve your campaign goals. Don't miss this episode of "All About Capital Campaigns."

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In this episode of "All About Capital Campaigns," co-hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt dive into the intricate world of fundraising campaigns. They explore the key differences between capital campaigns and comprehensive campaigns, helping you understand which one might be the right choice for your organization.

Capital campaigns are usually project-focused, aiming to build or renovate specific facilities that significantly enhance an organization's capacity. On the other hand, comprehensive campaigns encompass a broader range of fundraising, including annual funds, endowments, and more.

Amy and Andrea discuss the pros and cons of each approach, considering factors like donor loyalty, organization type, and the impact on accounting and stewardship. They offer insights into when to choose a capital campaign, particularly for smaller, community-based organizations, and when a comprehensive campaign may be more suitable, as is often the case with universities.

Throughout the episode, they emphasize the importance of clarity in campaign policies and recognition to ensure everyone involved, from donors to development teams, fully understands the fundraising goals.

Tune in to gain a better understanding of which campaign type aligns with your organization's unique needs and goals, and learn how to make the right choice for your next fundraising endeavor.

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In this episode of "All About Capital Campaigns," we are joined by a trailblazing leader in the world of fundraising, Birgit Burton. Birgit, the first African-American woman to chair the AFP Global Board, shares her insights and experiences on inclusion, diversity, equity, and access (IDEA) in the fundraising profession. She discusses the importance of fostering a diverse and inclusive fundraising environment and addressing systemic barriers and biases.

Birgit also delves into her founding role at AADO (African American Development Officers Network) and its mission to provide professional development, education, mentorship, and networking opportunities for fundraisers of color. Learn about the remarkable growth of AADO and its impact on the fundraising community.

Discover key trends in fundraising, including the growing influence of donor-advised funds and the role of artificial intelligence. Birgit emphasizes the significance of mentors and advisors in successful fundraising campaigns and offers valuable advice for fundraisers embarking on a capital campaign.

Lastly, Birgit shares her exciting future plans, which include turning her family home into an Airbnb and researching and preserving the remarkable legacy of her grandmother, who had a profound impact on philanthropy and social justice.

Join us for an inspiring and informative conversation that highlights the importance of diversity, mentorship, and innovation in the fundraising sector.

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Napleton Consulting, with over 25 years of leadership experience in education and the nonprofit sector. Beth shares her insights on leadership, providing tips and strategies for nonprofit leaders to enhance their effectiveness and efficiency.

As a former educator, principal, and founder of a charter school network, Beth brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. She discusses the challenges of nonprofit leadership, the importance of finding support and motivation, and offers advice on combating the isolation that often accompanies leadership roles.

Beth also delves into setting and measuring organizational goals, emphasizing the significance of tracking success metrics that truly matter. She encourages leaders to invest in themselves and seek help when needed, highlighting the positive impact it can have on the entire organization.

Whether you're an experienced nonprofit leader or just starting your leadership journey, this episode provides valuable insights and actionable strategies to help you become a more effective and impactful leader. Tune in to discover the secrets of successful nonprofit leadership with Beth Napleton.

For more leadership insights and resources, visit Beth Napleton's website at bethnapleton.com and take her quick leadership quiz at leadership-quiz.com.

Don't forget to subscribe to "All About Capital Campaigns" for more expert advice on fundraising, leadership, and nonprofit success.

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In this episode of "All About Capital Campaigns," Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt delve deep into the world of nonprofit endowment campaigns. We'll explore when and how to raise money for endowments, as well as the critical considerations involved. Join us as we navigate the complexities of endowment campaigns to help you make informed decisions for your organization's financial future.

In today's discussion, we address the common scenario of organizations reaching milestone anniversaries and wanting to celebrate with a massive endowment campaign, such as raising $25 million for their 25th birthday. While this may seem like a great idea from a PR perspective, it raises more questions than answers.

We explore essential questions your board should ask before diving into an endowment campaign, starting with understanding the various types of endowments and their implications. What kind of endowment fund do you want, and do you already have one? What policies will govern your endowment, especially regarding investment decisions and spending restrictions?

The conversation delves into the ethical considerations of sitting on a large endowment while immediate needs persist. Is it appropriate for your organization's culture and context? What's the role of the endowment within your organization, and how big should it be?

Amy and Andrea also discuss the relationship between endowment and capital campaigns. While most capital campaigns include endowment components, they emphasize the importance of a well-rounded campaign that addresses various priorities, such as buildings, programs, services, and technology.

Discover why donors might hesitate to give outright to endowment funds and how planned giving can be a strategic approach to growing your endowment over time. Understand the challenges of convincing investors to divest from their own successful portfolios into an endowment.

Amy and Andrea share insights into why organizations should not rely on endowments to eliminate the need for fundraising. They highlight how fundraising can keep your organization engaged with donors, even when you have a substantial endowment.

Don't miss this enlightening discussion on the complexities of endowment campaigns. Whether you're considering launching one or are already deep into the planning, this episode provides valuable insights to help you make informed decisions about your nonprofit's financial future.

So, tune in, share this podcast with your board members, and start the crucial conversation about endowment campaigns. It's time to think strategically and ensure the long-term sustainability of your nonprofit organization. Thank you for joining us on "All About Capital Campaigns," and we'll catch you next time.

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Step into the world of capital campaigns and fundraising strategies with the "All About Capital Campaigns" podcast. In this episode, we bring to light groundbreaking research findings that provide essential insights into the keys to capital campaign success.

Join host Amy Eisenstein as she engages in a discussion with Steven Shattuck, Director of Engagement at Capital Campaign Pro, about these game-changing discoveries. Explore pressing questions like, "Do campaigns work?" and "Can small organizations excel in the realm of capital campaigns?"

They delve into crucial findings, including the remarkable success rates of capital campaigns, their impact on annual funds, and the surprising reality regarding the significance of a high-powered board. Prepare to be inspired and informed as they debunk misconceptions and unveil the data-driven truths about achieving success in capital campaigns.

If you're in the process of planning or considering a capital campaign, this episode is a must-listen. Don't miss this opportunity to gain invaluable insights and tips for achieving fundraising success. Access the complete research report at capitalcampaignpro.com/research and embark on your path to a triumphant capital campaign today!

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In another episode of "All About Capital Campaigns," host Andrea Kihlstedt is joined by her remarkable friend and colleague, Brian Saber, for an insightful discussion on "Fundraising for Introverts." If you're an introvert who's ever grappled with the idea of asking people for money, this podcast is a game-changer for you!

Brian Saber, the author of "Fundraising for Introverts," shares his profound insights into the fundraising world from an introvert's perspective. With 25 years of experience in fundraising, Brian once considered himself a charlatan due to his discomfort with special events, reluctance to meet new people, and underlying shyness. However, through the development of Asking Matters and the concept of asking styles, he uncovered the unique strengths introverts bring to the fundraising arena.

In this episode, you'll delve into the core of asking styles, including Brian's primary style as a "Kindred Spirit" and his secondary style as a "Mission Controller." Explore why introverts possess a natural advantage in cultivating deep, meaningful relationships with donors, thanks to their exceptional listening skills.

Brian's latest book, "Fundraising for Introverts," is a must-read for introverts looking to excel in fundraising, extroverts eager to gain insight into and support introverted team members, and anyone who once believed that fundraising wasn't their calling. Join Andrea and Brian as they journey through the captivating world of introverts in fundraising, unraveling the secrets to successful, relationship-based philanthropy.

Whether you identify as an introvert, extrovert, or fall somewhere in between, this episode offers invaluable insights into the influential power of introverts within the fundraising landscape. Prepare to embrace your unique strengths and leave a profound mark in the realm of philanthropy.

To explore more about asking styles and uncover your own, visit Asking Matters and complete the 10-minute quiz discussed in this episode. You can also locate Brian Saber's book, "Fundraising for Introverts," at your preferred local bookstore, major online retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble, or consider supporting your community bookstore through bookshop.org

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Join us on "All About Capital Campaigns" as we delve deep into the world of fundraising campaigns. In this episode, co-founders Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt explore the intriguing realm of naming opportunities and donor recognition within capital campaigns.

Traditionally, naming opportunities have been a common way to honor major donors by putting their names on buildings, rooms, or spaces. However, times are changing, and organizations are beginning to question this practice. Is it the best way to recognize donors and align with an organization's mission? Join us as we unravel the complexities and possibilities surrounding donor recognition.

Amy and Andrea share insightful stories and examples of organizations that have taken innovative approaches to donor recognition. From featuring the names of scientists to telling donor stories, there are numerous creative ways to honor contributors while staying true to an organization's values.

Discover the importance of starting a conversation with your board early in the campaign planning process. Explore the role of the gift range chart in shaping donor recognition policies and ensuring transparency. Learn how to make donor recognition mission-focused, culturally sensitive, and relevant to your community.

Whether you're rethinking naming opportunities, considering alternative recognition methods, or simply looking for fresh ideas in the world of capital campaigns, this episode offers valuable insights and thought-provoking perspectives. Join us on this journey to reimagine donor recognition and make it meaningful for your organization.

Tune in now and start the conversation with your board to shape your organization's unique approach to donor recognition in your next capital campaign.

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Welcome to the "All About Capital Campaigns Podcast," your comprehensive guide to the world of capital campaign fundraising. Join our hosts, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt, co-founders of Capital Campaign Pro, as they unravel the complexities of hiring the perfect campaign consultant.

In this episode, Amy and Andrea share invaluable insights on why your organization needs an expert consultant and how to go about finding the right one. They emphasize the importance of seeking guidance from individuals who have successfully led campaigns from start to finish, especially when you're venturing into uncharted fundraising territory.

Discover why campaigns demand confidence and expertise, and how a seasoned consultant can provide the assurance and knowledge you need to raise substantial funds for your monumental projects.

Amy and Andrea dispel the myth of using a request for proposal (RFP) and instead advocate for a more dynamic approach. Learn how involving key leaders, like your board members and executive director, in the selection process can bring everyone on board and ensure a smoother campaign journey.

The hosts also highlight the importance of observing a consultant's communication and work style during the hiring process. Don't overlook the little details, as they can be indicative of how smoothly your long-term collaboration will run.

Lastly, Amy and Andrea stress the significance of not making the final decision solely based on the consultant's fee. They discuss how focusing on quality, competence, and compatibility should outweigh the cost, especially when the benefits far exceed the expenses in the context of a campaign.

As you embark on your journey to hire the best campaign consultant for your organization, keep these tips in mind. Visit Capital Campaign Pro's website at capitalcampaignpro.com to schedule a free strategy session and ensure you're making an informed choice for your capital campaign consultant.

Remember, selecting the right consultant is a pivotal step toward your campaign's success, so choose wisely and listen to the "All About Capital Campaigns Podcast" for more expert advice. Good luck with your consultant search, and we'll catch you in the next episode!

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In this episode, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt tackle one of the most pressing concerns for campaign leaders: the fear of failure. They explore the nuanced definitions of campaign success and failure, revealing that it's not just about meeting financial goals but also about setting the right expectations and navigating unexpected challenges.

Listen in as they recount real-life stories of organizations that faced campaign obstacles and emerged stronger. Discover how a clear order of solicitation, a compelling case for support, and a well-defined campaign plan can be your keys to success.

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Campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss how to get ready to solicit a lead gift donor. They share with you three important and often overlooked things to do that will increase your chances of success.

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Campaign communications include much more than your case for support. Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss audience, message, and medium for each stage of your campaign in this important episode.

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If you're curious about what goes into a campaign plan, this episode is for you. Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt go through each of the 10 elements of a campaign plan one at a time.

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Capital campaigns are not well suited for raising money for endowment. The most successful endowment fundraising is done through concentrated work on planned giving. That being said, most campaigns include a component of endowment. Amy and Andrea will unpack this complicated idea in this episode.

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Challenge Gifts are a wonderful way to generate excitement and buzz and create internal deadlines for your campaign. Join Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt as they discuss the best times and opportunities to use challenge gifts during a campaign.

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In this episode, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt provide more insight into engaging the wealthiest people in town for your campaign. Listen to learn how to identify, research, and cultivate them for your capital campaign.

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Fundraising is part art, part science. In this episode, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss the fine art of asking donors for advice. If you ask for advice well, your campaign is more likely to succeed due to a variety of factors discussed in this episode.

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You might be wondering what colored socks have to do with fundraising. In this episode, Andrea shares two wonderful stories relating to donors. Listen to learn from her wisdom and experience.

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Successful capital campaigns involve volunteers. If you're skeptical that working with volunteers is worth the struggle, don't miss this episode with Amy and Andrea to learn how to leverage volunteers for your campaign.

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If you want your campaign to be successful, ask for the largest gifts first. In this episode, you will learn about the strategic order of solicitation and why it matters.

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Farra Trompeter of Big Duck Communications joins Amy and Andrea to talk about branding your capital campaign and other important aspects of campaign communications. Learn how to express the power of your campaign so it feels new and special without undermining your regular communications. Listen to these three experts as they explore the power of excellent communication.

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The Gift Range Chart is the roadmap to your campaign. Join Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt to learn why this tool is so powerful in ways you probably haven't considered. Learn how all aspects of your campaign are connected to this simple tool.

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In today’s podcast, Andrea Kihlstedt interviews Angela Townsend, Development Director of Tabby’s Place, a sanctuary for cats from hopeless situations. Angela shares the story of how they raised more money than they ever anticipated for a special home for cats with an incurable feline disease and how, in the process, of that campaign, she came to understand how generous people can be!

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In this episode, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt share their thoughts about how to assess your board's readiness for a capital campaign. Are they committed? Do they know what the campaign is about? And, are they going to be willing to help? Download the readiness assessment for free at capitalcampaignpro.com/resources

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Amy welcomes guest, Mallory Erickson, to discuss how to use science-backed strategies to help fundraisers raise more money. Listen to learn behavior change strategies to help you overcome your fear of fundraising, in addition to new habits and tools to improve your fundraising.

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In this episode, campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt share some stories about what happens when the program staff hasn’t been informed about the capital campaign. This episode will get you thinking about how and when to best inform your entire staff about the campaign.

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Do you wonder how to approach the wealthiest individuals in your community about your capital campaign? In this episode, Amy and Andrea give you a new perspective - and some useful tools - to address this crucial step in your capital campaign.

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In this session, capital campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss how to prepare your Executive Director for a capital campaign — whether that person is great at fundraising or not. You’ll learn how to approach even a recalcitrant ED in a way that will help get them ready for their role in your capital campaign. 

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In this episode, Amy Eisenstein is joined by Rhea Wong, author of “Get that Money, Honey” to discuss how nonprofit fundraisers can get out of a scarcity mindset and improve their fundraising results. Learn concrete strategies for improving your fundraising beliefs and behaviors.

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In this episode, campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss why it matters that your board chair, executive director, and development director are the real power team for your campaign and they share some thoughts about how to get them working together well.

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Campaign expert Andrea Kihlstedt is joined by Sebastian Ruth, Founder and Artistic Director of Community Music Works.  Sebastian shares the remarkable story of his campaign and highlights the importance of having the courage to go for your dreams.

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In this brief but punchy episode, campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt talk about the importance of branding your capital campaign. Yes,   that’s right. Your campaign should have a brand that differentiates it from your organization. They’ll tell you why. And they let you in on their secret too!

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Campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss why having an outside consultant have confidential interviews with your top donors may undermine you and your organization. In this episode. you’ll learn why a feasibility study is important for your campaign. And you’ll hear about a new feasibility study model that puts you in conversation with your donors!

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Campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss four important ways to become more efficient as you get ready for a campaign.  And, they talk about why being more efficient matters and they will tell you how to get your board to approve investing in better systems.

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In this episode, Andrea Kihlstedt speaks with Paul Jalsevac, Chief Advancement Officer of Christendom College, about the Guided Feasibility Study he and his team have completed recently. Paul shares his insights and thoughts about why a new model worked well for them.

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Most board members don't know much about capital campaigns and what they do know is probably wrong. In this episode, you'll learn some standard misconceptions.

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Even with the best of intentions, some campaign volunteers prove to be disappointing.  In this episode, you'll learn some important lessons about how to handle them so they don’t wreck your campaign.

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In this episode, guest speaker Kent Stroman speaks with Andrea Kihlstedt about how to get your development and finance staff on the same page even if they aren't talking the same language.

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Should you do a feasibility study? In this episode, campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt think feasibility studies are a must. And they tell you how to respond to penny-pinching board members who resist.

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It’s no secret that you’ll raise a ton of money during the quiet phase of your campaign. But in this session, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt demystify the process.

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Not sure if you're ready for a campaign? In this episode, campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt share 3 things that you should assess when testing your campaign readiness.

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In this episode, campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss the perils of negative mindset and why they can stop you cold before you get going.

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Many large donors make many gifts to your organization. In today’s episode, campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt talk about why you shouldn’t assume donors remember what gifts they’ve made and why you should help them keep it straight.

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Join Amy, Andrea and special guest Bob Osborne of The Osborne Group as they explore the need for DEI with regard to campaign  and leadership. How do your early choices affect who participates, who leads, and who benefits?

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Are you missing an opportunity to get your largest donors excited? In this episode, campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss the importance and how to get your campaign donors truly excited and engaged in the mission of your organization.

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Is your building full of wall plaques with donor’s names?  Are you planning the same approach for your next capital campaign?  In this episode, campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt take a long look at the practice of naming spaces for donors and discuss other options that might be more in keeping with your mission and values.  If you think donors give in order to get their names on buildings, you might be surprised by this episode.

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Have you ever wondered how to determine the right price for a naming opportunity in your new building? In this episode, campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt talk about donor stewardship and why it's important during a campaign.

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If you've been struggling with the idea of how to communicate with your donors during the Public Phase of your campaign, you don't want to miss this episode.

We are joined by James Martin, founder of Rally Corp. He's a 3x tech founder and servant leader with over two decades of experience working in the social sector. He helps charities and causes rally passionate supporters with a human-centered mobile communications platform built exclusively for nonprofits.

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Have you ever wondered where organizations get the money to fund their capital campaign? You may be wondering how they find the money to pay for development staff or for new infrastructure technology.

In this episode, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt talk about how to create a budget that your board will support.

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What's the one most important thing you can do at the beginning of your campaign to ensure your success? It's all about having a BIG bold vision. 

In this episode, we're going to share exactly how to think about your vision for your upcoming campaign.

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Sabrina is a certified consultant, coach, facilitator, & bestselling author that helps nonprofit and small business build relationships that increases revenue. She has over 25 years of experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, and leadership.

Learn how Sabrina raised $12 M and established a $500K endowment in the 3rd poorest county in the US. Also learn the challenges she faced, how she overcame them; and learn what type of leadership works best to start - and complete - a capital campaign.

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Never gotten a million-dollar gift? If your organization has never received a really big gift, why would you think you can have a successful campaign? Campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt tell you why.

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No matter when you start a campaign, regardless of the economy, you're going to run into obstacles. There are always unforeseen challenges. Campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss how to overcome the most common campaign challenges.

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Campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt will show you why depending on a pre-written script for asking for a gift isn’t the best strategy. And they’ll give you strategy for script-free asking!

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If you are worried about a recession, you may be wondering if this is the right time for a capital campaign. Campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss the pros and cons of waiting for better times.

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What should you do when your values and a donor’s values are in conflict? In this episode, campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss strategies for handling donors who say things you might find offensive.

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Are you worried that a capital campaign might cannibalize your annual fund? If so, you’re not alone! And in this podcast, campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt will tell you what to do to make sure that doesn’t happen.

This podcast is the eighth of a special Summer Series of conversations on important fundraising topics. Our live webinars will return on September 12, 2022; learn more at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt talk about getting your board ready.  They discuss what to do about lousy board members, the number one campaign question in every board member’s mind and the ins and outs of board training.

Mentioned in the show: A Board Member’s Guide to Capital Campaign Fundraising

This podcast is the seventh of a special Summer Series of conversations on important fundraising topics. Our live webinars will return on September 12, 2022; learn more at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt help you figure out what you need in order to make enough time for a successful campaign.  They discuss when and how to staff up.

This podcast is the sixth of a special Summer Series of conversations on important fundraising topics. Our live webinars will return on September 12, 2022; learn more at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt question the traditional practice of naming buildings and room after large-gift donors.  While that approach may be right for some organization, it may be worth reconsidering for others.

This podcast is the fifth of a special Summer Series of conversations on important fundraising topics. Our live webinars will return on September 5, 2022; learn more at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss how to get ready to solicit a lead gift donor. They share with you three important and often overlooked things to do that will increase your chances of success.

This podcast is the fourth of a special Summer Series of conversations on important fundraising topics. Our live webinars will return on September 5, 2022; learn more at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss the importance of developing and maintaining a list of your top 50 prospects and why it’s especially important as you get ready for your capital campaign. 

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This podcast is the third of a special Summer Series of conversations on important fundraising topics. Our live webinars will return on September 5, 2022; learn more at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt urge you to get the right mindset about money before asking donors for gifts. Adopt a positive money mindset and you’ll raise more money.

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This podcast is the second of a special Summer Series of conversations on important fundraising topics. Our live webinars will return on September 5, 2022; learn more at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss the important lessons they’ve learned from leading peer support groups of people conducting capital campaigns.

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This podcast is the first of a special Summer Series of conversations on important fundraising topics. Our live webinars will return on September 5, 2022; learn more at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode, campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt have some fun role-playing examples of asking donors for complex gifts that combine campaign, annual and planned giving.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, June 27, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode, campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt explore practical ideas about identifying and recruiting the best volunteer leadership for your campaign.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, June 20, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Campaign expert Andrea Kihlstedt is joined in this episode by special guest Jezra Kaye. Jezra is a speaking coach with almost 20 years of experience coaching individuals and groups, and she talks with Andrea about how fundraising is enhanced when you present yourself in the best possible ways.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, June 13, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this special edition, fundraising expert Amy Eisenstein is joined by Andy Robinson, a 40-year industry veteran and co-author with Andrea Kihlstedt of a seminal fundraising book. Together, they discuss critical training skills and why you need to improve them.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, June 6, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt talk about how to handle campaigns that look as though they won’t be able to reach their goal.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, May 23, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt talk about a simple tool that gives you a peek at whether or not your campaign is likely to be successful.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, May 16, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss the public phase of capital campaigns and strategies you will use to get to your goal.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, May 9, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Campaign experts Amy Eisenstein are joined by special guest Jeff Hensley in a lively discussion of capital campaigns for churches and fundraising insights for other types of organizations.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, May 2, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In today’s episode, Amy and Andrea describe the gamut of capital campaign kick-off events, and discuss the pros and cons of each.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, April 25, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In today’s podcast, Amy and Andrea explain how you can use your capital campaign to strengthen your development office and build for the future.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, April 18, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In today’s podcast, special guest Joe Tumolo and host Andrea Kihlstedt talk about planned giving — why it matters and how to set up a planned giving program.

This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, April 11, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In today’s podcast, Amy and Andrea discuss why you should talk with your largest donors before you’ve finalized your plans and developed your materials. They give pointers on how to have early conversations with these largest donors.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, April 4, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode, campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss the many aspects of campaign timing, including how to determine the start and length of your campaign. They discuss the wisdom and importance of starting your campaign planning as soon as you know a campaign is heading your way.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, March 28, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode, capital campaign expert Andrea Kihlstedt is joined by Sarah Plimpton, Chief Happiness Officer of the Capital Campaign Toolkit. They discuss the importance of focusing on truly seeing and noticing people as the best way to make them happy. They discuss practical strategies for incorporating happiness into your development practice.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, March 21, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode, capital campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt will share with you the important lessons they’ve learned about fundraising during the brave new world of COVID-19.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, March 14, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode, capital campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss endowments. They’ll review what they are, why they matter, and why endowment should be included in your campaign fundraising objectives.

This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, March 7, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode, capital campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt encourage you to stop practicing your talking points and instead, review everything you know about that donor and why they might want to support your project.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, February 28, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode, capital campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt provide reassuring tips and strategies for getting your capital campaign goes through unnerving quiet periods.  Learn three approaches to breaking through the lull and getting your campaign back on track to success.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, February 21, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this special Valentine Day podcast, campaign expert Andrea Kihlstedt is joined by Toolkit advisor Kent Stroman; together, they encourage you to hold the chocolates and highlight the impact.  You’ll learn how to share your donor love today by showing them something specific they’ve helped make happen.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, February 14, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode, capital campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt will help you think through the process of determining the right goal for your campaign. You’ll learn that it takes more than simply knowing how much your project will cost.  And setting the right campaign goal sets your campaign up for success.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, February 7, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Will your Executive Director have enough time for the capital campaign? Learn some practical things you can do to help make sure that the head of your organization is able and willing to pull their weight for the campaign.  

Join campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt as they share the tips and tricks they’ve learned over many decades of working with nonprofit leaders on this type of fundraising.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, January 31, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Are you making the best use of social media to promote your organization, your events and your campaign? Julia Campbell combines social media and fundraising savvy. Her new book, How to Build and Mobilize a Social Media Community for Your Nonprofit will come out next month. And she will reveal some of her insights to campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt.

This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, January 24, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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How often do you talk to your top prospects when you aren’t asking them for gifts?  In today’s Toolkit Talk, campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt discuss why you should have leadership interviews with your most important donors, and how to structure that process.

This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, January 17, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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A Gift Range Chart shows the pattern of gifts your campaign will need for you to reach your goal.  A well-crafted Gift Range Chart will serve as the primary planning tool for your capital campaign. 

Join campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt as they discuss the best way to create gift range chart for your campaign and the many ways you can use it to achieve success.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, January 10, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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You’re going to have to spend money before contributions to your capital campaign start to come in. You may need project planning money to  purchase a site, hire an architect and go through assorted inspections and approvals.  And if you going to get expert advice for your campaign,  you’ll need to invest in that early, too.  

Join campaign experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt and find out your options for accessing early money to help you get started.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, January 3, 2022. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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If you’re considering a capital campaign, or if you just want to raise more money, it’s time to strengthen your resolve and muster the courage to ask for gifts. Campaign fundraising experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt share practical ways to build your fundraising courage. 

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, December 20, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In December, as donors make their year-end charitable contributions, what can you do to make your most important donors happy?  Fundraising experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt share their favorite year-end stewardship practices and answer a host of capital campaign questions.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, December 13, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt are joined by special guest Vu Le, of the blog NonprofitAF.com, in a lively discussion about community-centered fundraising for nonprofits. Vu Le shares his controversial views on how fundraising practices should change to become grounded in social equity.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, December 6, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Nonprofit fundraising experts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt share their favorite donor stewardship tips and encourage you to use the holiday giving season to thank your donors for their past contributions in meaningful and appropriate ways.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, November 29, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Fundraising experts Amy and Andrea discuss the capital campaign questions every board member wants answers to.  Where’s the money going to come from? How much will they have to give? What’s going to be expected of them? And many more important questions facing every nonprofit board member as they consider a capital campaign.  Download our favorite resource on the topic: "A Board Member’s Guide to Capital Campaign Fundraising" 

This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, November 22, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Set up your 2022 nonprofit fundraising for success starting by following up and following through with your capital campaign donors. Fundraising  experts Amy and Andrea talk about the phases and timing of your nonprofit's campaign and communication. They discuss the importance of  doing a good job on the last phase of your campaign. Following their advice will help set your next fundraising initiatives up for success. Make sure to check out our free Capital Campaign resources.

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Amy and Andrea discuss the importance of considering diversity, equity and inclusion into your planning process long before the start of your campaign. Then, they pivot to participant questions about campaign leadership – what qualities your chair should have, when to recruit them, and what to do if you can’t find the right person at the start of your campaign. 

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, November 8, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode Amy and Andrea discuss the strategic use of challenge gift as an important tool of your capital campaign.They discuss several ways you might make use of these gifts to motivate donors to give large gifts, energize donors to step up and set deadlines to stimulate giving.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, November 1, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Do you get anxious when you have to ask for large gifts? On this Toolkit Talk Amy and Andrea share their tips about how to get over asking-anxiety. They discuss how to talk less and listen more.  And they refocus the task from getting money to finding out what the donor wants to give.  They even do a little off-the-cuff role playing to give you a sense of what works.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, October 25, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Amy and Andrea talk about the various ways to figure out if your organization is ready for a capital campaign. They’ve found that the process of looking at your fundraising systems and board can be done simply and is often remarkably effective. Assessing various aspects of your organization will give you focus and a way forward whether or not a campaign is imminent.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, October 18, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Amy Eisenstein and special guest, Richard Quinn, Toolkit Advisor, discuss the importance and nuance of fall fundraising. How you approach fall fundraising will depend on the stage and timing of your campaign. Your annual fund will continue throughout your campaign. Campaign gifts will be asked for in conjunction with or separate from your annual fund. Listen to get your questions answered.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, October 4, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Today Andrea and Amy are joined by Sierra Rosen, Executive Director of Planned Giving at Brown University, to talk about planned giving. They discuss why planned giving matters even for small to mid-size organizations. They chew over simple strategies you can use to start building a program and how it dovetails nicely with a capital campaign. 

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, October 4, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode, Amy and Andrea talk with the remarkable Sarah Durham, founder of Big Duck, one of the premiere nonprofit communications company in the field. Sarah's down to earth, practical style combined with her deep expertise made for a fascinating and insightful session. 

Sarah discusses  branding and the elements cases for support. She discussed “mind share” and shared her insights on the campaign materials many people are using today.  

** Here are some links Sarah shared:

Examples of the Case for Support

https://bigduck.com/work/all-projects/?topic=campaigns

https://bigduck.com/work/jts/

Ebook: Capital campaign communications: Creating the tools for your nonprofit to raise millions.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, September 27, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode, Amy and Andrea demystify the quiet phase of your campaign.  What can you talk about in the quiet phase and what’s off limits? And why it matters!

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, September 20, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Andrea and Amy discuss the ins and outs of board giving and other juicy board topics. They offer suggestions about how to make board meetings interesting and how to handle multiple asks of a single board member.  

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, September 13, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In today’s podcast, Andrea Kihlstedt interviews Capital Campaign Toolkit Advisor, Kent Stroman, about how he helped an organization move their board from low level giving to 100% giving and raised more money collectively than the board ever imagined. Kent’s approach is simple and direct and can be easily adapted to fit your organization’s board.

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Today's interview is a special episode due to the Labor Day holiday. This podcast is usually recorded as part of a live webinar. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Amy and Andrea share some of their thoughts about training board members and volunteers for a capital campaign. They paint a broad picture of when and how you should train people.  And they present some of their favorite fundraising exercises for you to try.  

Adults learn best when they draw from their own experiences. The exercises Amy and Andrea use are designed to draw out some of the most important lessons of fundraising. 

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, August 30, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Amy and Andrea discuss ways to make your annual fall fundraising work with your capital campaign planning.  They explore the ways monthly giving increases the kind of donor loyalty.  And why donor loyalty sets the stage for asking those donors for larger gifts.  In a rollicking discussion, they touch on a wide swath of topics from whether development directors should attend board meetings to what people are doing to enjoy the last weeks of summer. 

Check out the Capital Campaign Readiness Assessment, mentioned during today's discussion. Determine if you’re ready for a capital campaign based on evaluating six aspects of your organization.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, August 23, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode, Amy and Andrea discuss the importance of involving volunteers in your campaign. You’ll learn why involving volunteers should be a priority and how to do it well. You’ll get practical advice about when to recruit people and why you should develop short-term specific assignments for them. And you’ll get a great suggestion about how to run a donor cultivation even that really works.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, August 16, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Amy and Andrea are joined by campaign expert, Xan Blake, in a lively conversation about boards and capital campaigns. Xan suggests that for the early planning phases of a campaign, board members should be in learning mode. Once the campaign plan takes shape, your board will move into a more active role that falls into three buckets: organizing, advocating and participating.

This podcast is the sixth and last of a special Summer Series featuring our immensely-experienced Toolkit Advisors. Our live webinars will return next week; learn more at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Amy and Andrea are joined by campaign expert, Kent Stroman, in an insightful discussion of how to make decisions and why it matters. Kent shares with us his thoughts on the importance of intentional and thoughtful decision-making. You’ll learn to consider the who, when and how aspects of good decision-making and why that matters to the success of your campaign.

This podcast is the fifth of a special Summer Series featuring our immensely-experienced Toolkit Advisors. Our live webinars will return in mid-August; learn more at ToolkitTalks.com.

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While delighting the donors in your campaign is important, don’t overlook the importance of making your campaign volunteers feel great. In today’s episode, Amy and Andrea welcome capital campaign expert Sarah Plimpton talk about the challenges of keeping campaign volunteers engaged. The way you treat your campaign volunteers will set the tone for your campaign now and in the future.

This podcast is the fourth of a special Summer Series featuring our immensely-experienced Toolkit Advisors. Our live webinars will return in mid-August; learn more at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In today’s episode, Amy and Andrea are joined by their amazing colleague, Paula Peter, in a lively discussion about campaign leadership. You’ll find out what makes a good campaign chair and how to go about finding and recruiting those people for your campaign. Paula highlights the different qualities organizations need in their campaign chair, and she offers suggestions for when and how to recruit the right people.

This podcast is the third of a special Summer Series featuring our immensely-experienced Toolkit Advisors. Our live webinars will return in mid-August; learn more at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Amy and Andrea are joined by campaign expert, Richard Quinn, to discuss constructive approaches to common campaign dilemmas. For example, how should you respond if you go to solicit a donor for $500,000 and she greets you at the door with a check for $50,000?  Or, what to do if your campaign chair isn’t good at soliciting gifts?

This podcast is the second of a special Summer Series featuring our immensely-experienced Toolkit Advisors. Our live webinars will return in mid-August; learn more at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In today’s podcast, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt welcome capital campaign expert Jeff Hensley to talk about donor fatigue.  They enjoy a revealing discussion about what donors are really tired of.  And, it’s not giving away money!  You’ll learn where to look and what to do when your donors start resenting being asked — or even worse — simply stop giving to your organization.

This podcast is the first of a special Summer Series featuring our immensely-experienced Toolkit Advisors. Our live webinars will return in mid-August; learn more at ToolkitTalks.com.

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The easier pace of the summer weeks makes them a perfect time to connect with your donors.  This week Amy and Andrea share their favorite ways to do that.  You’ll learn the power of sharing “insider information” and of asking people for advice as you plan for the fall.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, June 28, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Amy and Andrea discuss the importance of thinking expansively about your organization every once in a while. They offer suggestions about how to get your board excited about thinking from abundance – whether in special half-day planning meetings or just in short 30-minute bursts of inspiration. They also discuss the importance blue sky thinking for you in your personal life.

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Amy and Andrea share with you some important tips about hiring a consultant. They discuss whether or not you need a campaign consultant and why you shouldn’t issue an RFP to find your consultant.

They also discuss the new innovative models they use to provide organizations with the support they need for their campaigns.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, June 14, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Andrea welcomes author, master trainer and friend, Andy Robinson to join her as a host on this Toolkit Talk. They share the principles and effective practices you should know about how to train adults. 

Spoiler Alert: Adults remember more of what THEY say than they do of what YOU say! Andy and Andrea co-authored a book of training exercises, and they share some of their favorites with you. 

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, June 7, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode, Amy and Andrea discuss the importance of building volunteer engagement into the structure and fabric of your capital campaign. They review why it’s important and give you strategies for what kinds of committees you might have.

They also discuss how to involve volunteers in a way that will increase the likelihood of their effective participation. As usual, Amy and Andrea branch out into other topics as well — today’s out-rigger topic was Impact Investing!

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, May 24, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode, Amy and Andrea are joined by Claire Taylor Hansen, Creative Director of Big Duck, one of the premier nonprofit communications firms in the country. They talk about why a capital campaign needs a “brand” and how it should be different from the organization’s brand. Claire shares her ideas about how a brand should capture the spirit or personality of the organization and the campaign. She also shares many ideas about the kinds of campaign materials organizations might use in their campaigns, plus how to develop them.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, May 17, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Amy and Andrea dive into the topic of nonprofit boards and governance, topics dear to the heart of Simone Joyaux, who died on May 2. They refer to Simone’s book, Firing Lousy Board Members, And Helping the Others Succeed as a starting place for the discussion. They share their stories about Simone and her amazing contributions to the field. 

Then, they field a wide range of questions, including: How much money do you need to have raised before going public? Whose job is it to fire lousy board members? How can you help board members participate openly during board meetings? This one’s for Simone.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, May 10, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Amy and Andrea share their current thinking about cases for support and why they recommend donor engagement tools when speaking with donors. You’ll learn what they are and how to develop one for your campaign. It might transform the way you speak with your largest donors.

They also fielded questions about campaign planning, raising money to pay down debt (or not!), and a host of other pressing questions.

This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, May 3, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode, Amy and Andrea talk about Feasibility Studies — what they are, why they matter, what else you might call them, and much more. You’ll also learn about the importance of leadership and why, if the leader of your organization isn’t capable, you might think about finding a new job. 

You’ll get a great tip about how to test your case for support. As a bonus, you’ll get a refresher about “yes… and,” along with Oreo cookies as tools of effective fundraising.

This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, April 26, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode, Amy and Andrea discuss approaches to raising money as your organization emerges from COVID. They talk about capacity campaigns and mini-campaigns, and they answer a slew of questions about whether and when you can ask donors for yet another gift. 

This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, April 19, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com. 

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In this episode, Amy and Andrea conduct a lively conversation about training board members. Prompted by many questions, they give a rundown of key things to know about training adults, and board members in particular. You’ll learn why it’s important to get board members talking (and not just listening) during a training. You’ll find out at least two topics that are important for any board training. And you’ll even join a discussion of the current debate over donor-centric and community-centric fundraising.

This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar held Monday, April 12, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Next week, Amy and Andrea will talk about the power of thinking from abundance rather than scarcity. As you get ready to plan a campaign, that kind of open, exciting thinking about what  our organization might be if you didn’t have to pinch every penny will inspire everyone to think bigger. And when it comes to fundraising, inspiring ideas generate larger gifts. Don’t miss this talk. It’s likely to inspire you to shift your mindset.

This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar on April 5, 2021. To participate in future calls, register at ToolkitTalks.com. 

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Today, Amy and Andrea discuss key issues of timing when it comes to capital campaigns. They focus on three key points.  

First, you should resist the temptation to launch a capital campaign for a new building until you've secured a site for the building and have schematic plans.

Second, don’t start a campaign if the leadership of your organization is iffy. Donors give large, generous gifts when they have confidence in the future of the organization.

And third, finish your campaign before the ribbon is cut.  The discussion is lively and questions flow. Take a listen.

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This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar on March 29, 2021. To participate in future calls, register at ToolkitTalks.com. 

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In today's episode, Andrea is joined by Sebastian Ruth, Founder and ED of Community Music Works, an organization that is in the midst of a lively and effective campaign. They chat about the lessons they’ve learned through the first two years of the campaign.  They talk about setting goals, board giving and ways to make campaign committees function well.

This episode was recorded as part of a live webinar on March 22, 2021. To participate in future calls, register at ToolkitTalks.com.  

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Amy and Andrea discuss the work to be done once your campaign has reached its goal. They talk about celebrating and reporting and making sure that your donors feel great about the campaign. They highlight the importance of effective post-campaign activity and suggest that it’s really the very beginning of your next campaign.  

And in their wide-ranging discussion, you’ll even learn about “Six Word Stories” and how you can use them to come up with a theme for your campaign.

Today's episode was recorded on a live webinar on March 15, 2021. To participate in these sessions, register today at ToolkitTalks.com.

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Have you ever wondered why capital campaigns raise so much money? Has it dawned on you that you might be able to adopt some of the principles of capital campaign fundraising to the rest of your fundraising program? In this episode, Andrea and Amy discuss why you should adopt a "campaign campaign mindset" and how you might do that.

This conversation was recorded live on a webinar on March 8, 2021. To participate in this live call, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In today’s episode, Amy and Andrea discuss an unlikely truth about boards and capital campaigns. You may think that you’ve got to scramble to build a strong board before your campaign, but in today’s episode you’ll learn why that’s not the best strategy. And Andrea shares a remarkable idea about boards that she learned from a major donor some years ago.

This episode was recorded on a live webinar on March 1, 2021. To participate in these webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode, Amy and Andrea take on the important subject of feasibility studies. Can they really tell you how much you can raise? Is it important that the interviews are done by an outside consultant? And much more...

This conversation was recorded live on a webinar on February 22, 2021. To participate in this live call, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode, Amy and Andrea weave together the many aspects of organization and infrastructure of successful campaign.  Do you have an effective CRM system? Have you developed effective ways of reporting on your campaign progress?  Do you have a plan for managing volunteer committees?

Join Amy and Andrea in a free-flowing conversation about these topics and much more winding up with a reminder not to get stuck in the quest for perfection that inhibits progress.

This episode was recorded on a live webinar with hundreds of participants. To join the weekly webinar in person, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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One of the ways campaigns build capacity is by providing opportunities and energy to identify potential donors and build or strengthen  relationships with them. Campaigns provide an excellent context for focusing on that important work. As they plan campaigns, organizations are primed to think about increasing their impact. And, the promise of increased impact sets the stage for donor conversations. 

Also in this episode, Amy and Andrea take head-on the question of fundraising events and why Covid19 has given you a wonderful opportunity to rethink your practices.

This episode was recorded on a live webinar on February 8, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register today at ToolkitTalks.com

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In this episode, you’ll learn a number of ways you can apply the principles of capital campaign fundraising to build your fundraising program —  with or without a campaign! Join Amy and Andrea for this lively discussion.

This conversation was recorded on a live webinar on February 1, 2021. To participate in future webinars, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode Amy and Andrea discuss topics related to 1) What to include in your campaign goal; and 2) The relationship between annual fund and capital campaigns; and 3) The importance of a generous mindset for fundraising.

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This conversation was recorded on a live webinar on Monday, January 25, 2021. To sign up and participate in future talks like this, register at ToolkitTalks.com

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In this episode, Amy and Andrea answer questions and discuss topics related to 1) staffing up for a campaign; and 2) how to budget for a campaign; and 3) why feasibility studies are so important.

This episode was recorded on a live webinar held on January 18, 2021. To participate in future live events, go to ToolkitTalks.com.

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In this episode, Amy and Andrea discuss how to think about having campaign to build your capacity, including your endowment. They answer lots of great questions about the specifics of the difference between true endowments and quasi-endowments, as well as how to discuss those options with donors.

This episode was taped on a live webinar on January 11, 2021. To join these live conversations, register at ToolkitTalks.com.

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As we start the year, Andrea and Amy ask you: What's your BHAG - your Big, Hairy, Audacious Goal? 

You and your organization should have one. In fact, not only should you have a BHAG, but it should drive your organization forward.

Your BHAG should inspire you, your board and your staff to do everything  they can to make an even bigger difference in the world you serve.

You'll also learn from your peers as they ask other questions about fundraising and capital campaigns. 

Recorded on a live webinar on Monday, January 4th, 2021 - to participate in future live webinars, go to ToolkitTalks.com.