Is Your Organization Ready for a Capital Campaign?

Yes, you are ready for a campaign if:

• The organization has identified specific and urgent needs.
• The organization has developed and written a compelling case explaining the
• campaign goals.
• The Board of Directors understands and embraces the long-term commitment of time and resources required for a successful campaign and recognizes that fund raising is not only their responsibility, but a top priority.
• Board members and key volunteers have existing peer relationships with philanthropic leaders and major donors.
• The organization communicates often (more than five times a year) with its donors, constituents and prospects using newsletters and other public relations tools.
• The project budget is as accurate as it possibly can be at this point in the planning process.
• Articulate, enthusiastic individuals are available to lead and to share the vision.
• The staff understands and supports the need for a campaign.
• All other funding opportunities have been examined before turning to the community at large for support.

With more preparation, you could be ready if:

• The organization is in the process of identifying specific and urgent needs.
• The organization is developing a compelling case.
• The Board of Directors is willing to learn more about the personal commitment and financial investment required as well as how to solicit gifts from their peers.
• Board members and key volunteers have access to philanthropic leaders, major donors and major gift prospects.
• The organization communicates occasionally (two to four times per year) with its donor base by newsletters, group meetings, occasional visits and through media outlets.
• The project budget is an estimate provided by professionals.
• Articulate, enthusiastic individuals are available on a limited basis.
• The staff is being educated about the need for a campaign.
• Other funding opportunities are being explored.

Consider delaying your capital campaign if:

• The organization must still come to consensus on priority needs.
• The organization has not developed a compelling case.
• The Board of Directors has a limited ability to make commitments, provide leadership or is still working to overcome its discomfort with solicitation and/or making financial donations.
• There are few or no relationships with philanthropic and community leaders.
• The organization does not have a public relations plan and communicates infrequently with its constituency.
• The project requires more accurate financial projections before sharing a budget.
• No one is available to lead, make decisions or share the vision with the community.
• The staff is not aware that a campaign is being considered.
• Sources of financial support are not aware of the organization's needs.