Updated: 6.1.06
Because individuals do not have to make contributions and, by law, do not need to disclose information about their gifts publicly, raising funds from individuals is very different than raising funds from institutions such as foundations and government agencies. Nonprofits with a nonexistent or small development staff are typically faced with having to decide which type of funders to pursue--institutions or individuals. This section will provide the basic information you will need to determine whether fundraising through major gifts from individuals is appropriate for your organization.
"Major donors" may refer to individuals, foundations or corporations. Here, it serves as a category of individuals who individually donate a significant sum to a nonprofit. Depending on the nonprofit's experience and its area of the country, the definition of "significant" or "major" gifts varies greatly and can range from $2,500 to $100,000 or more.
In order to successfully secure a major individual gift, you will need:
• Individuals in your community who have the means to donate a significant amount of money and who might have an interest in your issue
• Access (or a way to get it) to these individuals
To learn about how to connect with these individuals, download Developing a Fundraising Plan: Major Individual Donors.