Six Tips for Cultivating Major Donors

Cultivate prospects.

Ask your major donors to reach into their own social circles, to identify other potential donors.

Extend invitations to visit.

Give your donors opportunities to see your organization’s programs in action.

Be patient.

It takes time to get to know and learn what motivates your donors to give. Once you know, you’ll be more equipped to make the perfect donor-tailored solicitation.

Be ready.

If a major donor reaches out, respond right away. Be available to meet whenever and wherever they suggest.

Accept “no” gracefully.

This allows your relationship with the major donor to continue.

Stay in touch.

A relationship shouldn’t end after the gift is made. Lifelong donors are developed when you show how your organization has flourished because of their generosity. Let donors know how your mission is aligned with what they care about.