b'GrowthFINDING FUNDSIngredientsfor a SuccessfulCapital CampaignPart 1 of 2by Roy Jones, CFREA capital campaign is a specific fundraising effort thatLeadership development (months 23):for capital and program improvements. Today, most are1. Identify what skills, talents, and resources are needed.referred to as comprehensive campaigns because they2. Select and educate campaign leadership (team leads, seek a large sum of money for both capital and programcommittee members, officers).improvements. These campaigns usually run over a longer3. Target prospective donors.periodusually 23 years. Most capital campaigns Involvement (months 34): Have team leaders form their focus on funding for growth-related projects such asteams and organize their efforts. Maximum involvement upgrading select facilities, constructing new buildings,leads to ownership and ownership leads to commitment.procuring needed equipment, improving services, or adding staff specialists. Inspiring action (months 45): Place spiritual emphasis on stewardship and prayer through active communication Capital campaigns can be organized in many ways, butto all facets of the ministry. Tailor communications to differ-the basic process is the same. I have run a successfulent groups within the ministrys organizational structure.36-month, $200 million capital campaign for Mercy ShipsReceiving commitments (month 6): Create a celebratory International, as well as several smaller campaigns thatevent with a strong tone set by the silent phase pledges. were $35 million in scope. I used the following steps toThis will be the public launch to begin soliciting gifts from develop each one: your regular donors.Preparation (3 months): Follow-up (month 7 and beyond): Ensure maximum 1. Conduct wealth research on the top donors on participation from the entire donor file. Provide steward-your database. ship updates online and in your written communication. 2. Meet face-to-face with the top 25 prospects withRecognize donors and donations as they happen.7-figure+ capacity from your current donor base or inTheres more to share about running an effective capital your community. campaign. Well discuss best practices and recommended 3. Develop a community-support survey for the top 200resources in the March/April issue!donors and prospects (6-figure+ capacity) in your area. The goal is to determine the viability of your upcoming campaign and identify potential supporters. (In most cases a formal feasibility study would be completed using an outside contractor.) Roy Jones, CFRE, has worked with more than 70 missions, shelters, and food banks. He offers 4. Develop a calendar of events, deadlines, and delivera- Citygate Network members two free hours bles around these core elements: of training annually. In 2025, his company Designing the program. volunteered more than 250 free hours serving Citygate Network members with major giving Building an organization. and fundraising support.You can reach Roy at Identifying people for involvement. rjones@fitfundraising.com. citygatenetwork.org 46'