Nonprofit Kit For Dummies, 6th Edition

Chapter 19

Capital Campaigns: Finding Lasting Resources

IN THIS CHAPTER

Developing the campaign plan and budget

Putting together a capital campaign case statement

Figuring out where gifts will come from

Understanding the pros and cons of capital campaigns

As a nonprofit organization matures, its staff and board may become eager to obtain resources that can stabilize the organization. One option is to raise capital — money to make specific, usually long-term, financial investments.

Some organizations raise capital funds for buying property or building facilities. Other raise such funds for ventures — money they put aside for major program innovations. Still others raise capital for cash reserves (funds available to grow and adapt in the future) or endowments — money they permanently invest, with the investment returns providing a source of annual income. If you’re the director of a nonprofit taking on a capital campaign, imagine yourself as suddenly having two jobs: leading your organization and its programs and leading its capital project. Can you picture yourself wearing these ...