Fundraising and Capital Campaign Strategy
In 2008, Adaugeo Development began offering, with great success, the service of consultation and implementation of strategy for Fundraising and Capital Campaigns. We currently focus this service exclusively for non-profits and specifically for churches. So, be happy… you’re in a good place!
If you’re reading this, then you’ve probably already been to several other sites where they give a listing of previous campaigns throughout the country; and perhaps a comparison of the actual pledged amounts versus the capital campaign target budget. In addition, you have no doubt read about the concept of 2-3 times your current annual budget, as being the accepted norm for fundraising goals. All of this is well and good; however, at Adaugeo Development we strive to not use a cookie-cutter approach with any of the organizations with which we partner to address money raising issues. In fact, whether you partner with Adaugeo or someone else; we would suggest that you insist on a consulting strategy that takes into careful consideration your particular situation, and works diligently to align with your goals, as opposed to dictating a strategy of “past successes”.
Why would we be so bold as to make this suggestion? Well, let’s face it - churches are composed of individuals, who have collectively come together for a common purpose. The purpose is both personal and outreaching at the same time. People desire the fellowship and growth that a healthy church provides, yet most see their primary responsibility as being an outward expression of love, giving, and support of others (who also need to be in a church).
Your need for raising capital is certainly connected to the common purpose uniting your congregation. However, don’t forget that the revenue you are looking to secure will come from the very people who make up the congregation…it is critical to engage them, to enlist THEIR support and not to rely on the magic of a consultant. If we offer any “magic” at all, it is in the area of bolstering understanding, motivation, enthusiasm and collective effort toward the corporate goals.
In the opinion of Adaugeo Development, it will also be expedient for the leadership of the church (or non-profit) to give fiscal consideration not only to anticipated goal - but ALSO to their other corporate budgets collectively. You can read some testimonial material, written by a pastor and recent client, who will whole heartedly support our position that this step was the absolute most crucial part in developing a sound strategy.
Also, along the lines of considering you unique situation… is a traditional three year campaign best for you? Maybe… maybe not. If you hire one of the traditional national firms, this is what you will be encouraged toward. Some of our recent experience would suggest otherwise. At North Wake Church, we found that the congregation was somewhat transient, in that it is composed of many Seminary students. Upon graduation many of these students continue with their career path; ultimately leading them away from the church. It is very rare that a member will continue to support a pledge once they have physically moved on. Also, at this church, it was evident that the congregation needed a more focused and current approach; therefore, we suggested to do the campaign annually, and to enlist different participants each occasion - thereby increasing participation rates and enthusiasm. This church has twice before ran capital campaigns - one with each of the nationally known consultants. The last campaign with Adaugeo Development, was the most successful to date - specifically in terms of: rate of participation, annualized amount pledged, and implementation of follow-up strategy consistent with emphasis “glad hearted giving”. It’s been a win-win for everyone!
While our company didn’t originate to address this need, we have nevertheless discovered that our strategies and tools used with for profit business are also well suited to this end. Whether you are looking to raise capital for growth and expansion or the acceleration of debt retirement; we stand ready to assist you in this venture, and we are excited about how we may benefit you and your organization in ways that you may not have imagined! We look forward to hearing from you.
Leave a Reply