Raising capital sums and major gifts from individuals who are themselves wealthy or who
are able to influence large gifts from other sectors is a funding method which requires time and dedication.

You first have to think very hard about which influential volunteers might have an affinity
with your cause. Then you have to go out and recruit them to help you for a short period
of time.

You might be lucky and find them among your Board members or trustees, your alumni,
or your present donors. Or you might have to dig deeper and search among the relatives
of the people you help, or your neighbours or community leaders, sponsors or suppliers.

If your cause is worthwhile and your needs are genuine and urgent, you’ll always find
influential volunteers to identify with what you do, and you’ll also find other wealthy and
concerned people who will give you the time to listen to your request.

There is no substitute for sitting across the desk from another person and presenting your
case for support and then making the ‘ask’. It’s by far the most difficult for a donor to refuse and it is therefore by far the most effective method.

Be prepared to be ‘knocked back’ a few times, but persevere and you’ll discover the
enormous satisfaction, excitement and fulfilment of getting those all-important big gifts
for your organisation.