In 2024, Americans donated $592.5 billion to nonprofit organizations, representing a 6.3% increase over the prior year. Contributions from individuals totaled $392.45 billion or 66% of all giving. Bequests made by individuals amounted to $45.84 billion, accounting for 8% of the total reported. Together, individual donations and bequests represent $438.29 billion or 73% of all philanthropy, far outpacing foundation and corporate commitments. The practice of individual philanthropy is deeply embedded within American civic culture, transcending demographic diversity and ideological divisions. The financial health of our nonprofit sector continues to rely heavily on the generosity of individual donors.
 
Major Gifts for Nonprofit Organizations examines how organizations can unlock their potential in major gift fundraising to address immediate needs and achieve strategic goals. The course explores approaches for motivating both prospective and current donors to make significant contributions, with a particular focus on approaches relevant to your organization.
 
Key topics include assessing organizational readiness for major gift fundraising, understanding the donor life cycle - prospect identification and qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship - crafting a compelling case for support, engaging Board members and institutional leaders, and leveraging research analytics and Moves Management to prioritize and strengthen donor relationships. While mindful of individual and organizational confidentiality, participants will be encouraged to share their experiences, exchange ideas, and seek constructive feedback from peers and the instructor in a collaborative and supportive environment.
 
This course is eligible towards the completion of the Certificate in Fundraising. Bundle your coursework and earn a professional credential that communicates knowledge and skills gained. Declared Certificate students receive 10% off of courses within the program.
 
Note: Full participation in Major Gifts for Nonprofit Organizations is applicable for 15 points in Category 1.B - Education of the CFRE International application for initial certification and/or recertification.
Continuing Education Units (CEU) : 2

You'll walk away with

• Familiarity with all aspects of major gift fundraising
• Understanding Moves Management
• Knowing when and how to ask for a major gift
• Strategies for Board engagement
• Tools and resources to grow and manage a major gifts program

Ideal for

• Development staff who aspire to be major gift officers
• Major gift officers who are new to their roles
• Nonprofit leaders who have limited major gift experience
• Board members or career changers with interests in nonprofit financial resource development