JGA Blog

In a recent luncheon conversation, a prospective client asked me, “What, more than anything else, influences the success of a capital campaign?”

A number of important factors quickly came to mind: a well-conceived and executed plan, outstanding institutional and volunteer leadership, great campaign counsel (like JGA, of course . . . just couldn’t resist!).  But as I reflected on the many campaigns in which I have been involved over the years, I told the inquirer two things stand out as being most influential.

If a client is just beginning to explore the notion of a feasibility study and an eventual campaign, JGA may offer what we call an Initial Assessment — better known internally as a “Kick the Tires” assessment. Just as an early 20th-century motorist might kick the tires of a new vehicle to determine the road-worthiness of its tires, it can be extremely important to do the same with a development department before it sets out on the challenging and winding road of a campaign.

Presidential involvement is a crucial component of campaign success | A campaign will likely be one of the most important undertakings of a presidency and can transform an institution. The following list outlines the president’s top responsibilities in ensuring campaign success.

JGA has the privilege of working with a diverse mix of nonprofit organizations and institutions to develop their preliminary cases for support. Though many clients may see this work as a chore, it is a key part of campaign planning that can significantly impact the success of your campaign. No pressure!

Campaigns are often preceded by a feasibility study. It’s a common and proven way to gauge what level of philanthropic support may be achieved in a campaign and what strategy will help ensure the success of a campaign.

by Lee Ernst

by Lee Ernst

by Kris Kindelsperger

by Ted Grossnickle