Soliciting major gifts can often entail a waiting game as donors deliberate on their commitment. But what if there were a way to expedite the process and secure more major gifts? The solution is simpler than you might think: Deadlines. These date-sensitive scenarios create a sense of urgency that propels donors to act promptly, reducing the likelihood of procrastination.
Here are some compelling examples of how to leverage deadlines effectively:
- Event Announcement: Harness the excitement of upcoming events to encourage commitment from your prospects. Imagine announcing their generosity at a premier event to inspire others.
- Matching Gift Challenges: Challenge your major gift donors to lead by example in a time-bound campaign with a matching gift component. Your donor’s lead gift can set the pace and motivate others to participate.
- Board Meetings: If your prospect sits on your university’s board, consider using a board meeting as an opportunity to publicly acknowledge their gift, enhancing their reputation among their peers.
- Scholarship Timing: Emphasize the importance of timely scholarship gifts to benefit deserving students before the fall semester, securing their access to a transformative education.
- Leadership Meetings: Make your donor shine in front of university leadership by discussing their gift at an upcoming leadership meeting, including the university president.
- Campaigns: As the end date of a fundraising campaign approaches, rally your prospect to be the driving force that helps the campaign reach its goal.
- Program Support: Highlight the urgency of securing funds before a specific date to ensure the success of a program that will impact numerous students.
- Faculty Support: Stress the immediate need for faculty or staff recruitment and retention, positioning your donor as a key player in securing top talent.
Remember, deadlines are powerful motivators, but donors can’t meet them if they’re not aware of them. Incorporate deadlines strategically to maximize your fundraising efforts and accelerate your university’s progress toward its goals.
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