Major gifts are the cornerstone of transformational philanthropy in independent schools. While these contributions may require significant time and dedication to cultivate, their impact can reshape an institution’s future. The threshold for what constitutes a major gift varies significantly across institutions. It might be $5,000 for one school and $1 million or more at another. The process of securing major gifts centers on building authentic relationships with donors and creating a shared vision for meaningful change. Through these substantial investments, donors become true partners in advancing the school’s mission, leaving a lasting legacy that shapes future generations. As a fundraising strategy, major gifts prove remarkably efficient – a small circle of dedicated supporters can drive extraordinary impact, allowing schools to achieve ambitious goals that might otherwise remain beyond reach.
Developing a major gift pipeline is about far more than researching the school’s parents’ and grandparents’ financial capacity—it’s about thoughtfully identifying families, alumni, and other supporters who believe deeply in the school’s mission. Through careful analysis of your current donor database, strategic use of wealth screening resources, and outreach to board members and longtime supporters, we can build meaningful relationships with community members who are inspired to make transformative investments in our students’ futures.
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