Fundraising Ideas     |     4 December 2024

Big Money Fundraising Ideas for Nonprofits

Unlock major gifts with big money fundraising ideas for nonprofits

20 minute read

Every nonprofit has that moment—a chance to make a big impact, reach bold goals, and drive real change. Of course, there is a catch: you need the funds to get there, and standard bake sales or car washes won’t cut it. That’s where big money fundraising ideas come into play. These strategies are designed to bring in the kind of donations that truly make a difference, from major gifts to capital campaigns.

At its core, big money fundraising isn’t about asking for pocket change. It's about inspiring major donations that can transform your organization and fuel your mission. These ideas tap into donors’ passion for your cause, aligning their support with your long-term vision. 

Read on to explore the key strategies that help nonprofits generate large-scale donations—without adding unnecessary stress to already overwhelmed organizers.

Why big money fundraising ideas matter

Big money fundraising is exactly what it sounds like—strategies and events that aim to raise substantial amounts, typically through major gifts or large-scale efforts. These donations are the kind of support that can secure a nonprofit’s future and fuel its growth.

But why focus on these large donations? Simply put, a single major gift can sometimes cover the same ground as dozens or even hundreds of smaller ones. This kind of fundraising gives nonprofits the financial stability they need to tackle bigger projects, expand services, or invest in long-term initiatives. It also opens the door to deeper relationships with donors vested in seeing the organization thrive.

What is a major gift, and why is it important for nonprofits?

A major gift is typically defined as one of the largest donations a nonprofit receives from a single source. While the amount that qualifies as a major gift can vary between organizations, it’s generally a significant contribution that helps fund key projects or initiatives. For a small nonprofit, a major gift might be $5,000. For larger organizations, it could be $50,000 or more. The point is that these gifts are vital for advancing your mission in a big way.

Different nonprofits categorize major gifts based on their overall operating budget and goals. For example, a grassroots animal shelter might consider a $10,000 donation a game-changer, while a large university or hospital may see major gifts starting at $100,000 or higher. What’s consistent across the board is that major gifts make up a substantial portion of many nonprofits’ fundraising revenue.

Focusing on major gifts leads to long-term sustainability because these contributions often come from donors who are deeply committed to your cause. Major gifts can help secure your organization’s future by supporting long-term projects, endowments, or capital campaigns. Major donors often continue giving over time, making them key players in maintaining financial stability.

A brief guide on how to ask for a major gift

The process of securing a major gift starts long before you make the actual ask. It’s about building and nurturing relationships with potential donors so that, when the time comes, they feel personally connected to your cause. Here’s how you can approach it:

1. Do your research. Identify potential donors with the capacity and interest to give. Look at their past giving history and find out what causes they’re passionate about.
2. Build a relationship. Before making any request, focus on creating a meaningful connection. Invite potential donors to events, keep them informed about your work, and provide them with opportunities to see your nonprofit's impact firsthand.
3. Make it personal. When it’s time to ask, be specific about how their donation will make a difference. Rather than presenting a general need for funds, tie the request to a project or goal that aligns with the donor’s values. Show them exactly what their gift will achieve.
4. Engage them emotionally. Donors want to feel like they’re part of something important. Use stories, visuals, and real-life examples to illustrate their contribution to the people or communities you serve.
5. Stay connected. After the gift is made, continue building the relationship. Share updates, invite them to special events, and make them feel like a valued part of your organization’s success. Engaging major donors beyond the initial gift helps secure their support for years to come.

When nonprofits focus on relationship-building and personal engagement, they can create lasting partnerships with major donors and turn one-time gifts into a reliable source of funding.

What is a capital campaign, and how it can raise major gifts

A capital campaign is one of nonprofits' most effective tools for raising major gifts. It’s a targeted, time-limited effort to secure funds for a specific purpose—typically something big like purchasing property, building a facility, or launching a large-scale program. These campaigns go beyond the usual fundraising methods by focusing on high-impact donations that can push an organization toward achieving long-term goals.

The significance of a capital campaign lies in its potential to inspire transformative gifts. Donors are more likely to contribute substantially when they see their funds supporting something concrete, like a new community center or scholarship program. Capital campaigns create a sense of urgency and a clear, measurable outcome, which highly appeals to major donors who want to make a tangible impact.

Structuring a capital campaign starts with clear goals. The organization needs to identify the total funds required, break that amount into phases, and target key donors early on. The most successful campaigns often quietly raise a large percentage of their goal before going public. This “silent phase” allows nonprofits to build momentum and secure major gifts before launching broader efforts to reach smaller donors.

Launching a capital campaign requires planning, persistence, and clear communication. To maintain momentum over time, organizations must keep donors engaged with regular updates, milestone celebrations, and new opportunities to give. Whether it’s recognizing donors at key events or showing them the direct impact of their contributions, keeping that connection alive is crucial to the campaign’s long-term success.

22 proven strategies for big money nonprofit fundraising

1. Galas and formal events

Galas are a top choice for bringing in major gifts because they combine celebration with giving. To maximize donations, offer tiered ticket options and secure event sponsors. Creating an unforgettable evening with entertainment, heartfelt presentations, and opportunities for giving ensures that donors are inspired to contribute generously.

2. Live and silent auctions

Auctions engage donors by offering valuable items or experiences they can bid on. Organize high-value items to draw interest with a live or silent auction and events like galas to maximize impact. Make the bidding process easy with mobile tools like Silent Auction Pro, and keep the energy high by announcing the top prizes and bids throughout the event.

3. Golf tournaments

Golf tournaments appeal to major donors looking for a fun and competitive way to give. To increase revenue, organize teams, offer sponsorships, and include raffles or auctions. Select a sought-after course and provide opportunities for participants to network, ensuring that the event feels both exclusive and community-driven.

4. Capital campaigns

A capital campaign creates urgency by funding a long-term project like a new facility or major program. Clearly communicate the campaign’s goals to donors, highlighting how their contribution makes an impact. These campaigns are ideal for securing major gifts from supporters who are invested in the organization’s long-term success.

5. Walk-a-thons and charity runs

These events encourage community participation while providing larger sponsorship opportunities for businesses and major donors. Participants raise funds from their networks, and the event itself can become an annual tradition. Walk-a-thons are an inclusive way to appeal to donors of all sizes while drawing in various sponsorships.

6. Benefit concerts

Concerts attract a broad audience and are a great way to engage donors and sponsors alike. The appeal lies in the entertainment factor, and when partnered with corporate sponsors, costs can be reduced while revenue potential increases. Utilize peer networks and donor involvement to help with attendance and donations.

7. Naming opportunities

Offering naming rights for buildings, rooms, or scholarships allows major donors to leave a lasting legacy. This high-visibility opportunity encourages large donations, especially from those who have a deep connection to your cause. Recognizing their contribution publicly strengthens long-term relationships and donor loyalty.

8. Corporate partnerships and sponsorships

Partnering with big brands can supplement your fundraising efforts and reduce event costs. Corporate sponsorships allow businesses to support your cause while boosting their visibility. When structured correctly, these partnerships create a win-win scenario for both the nonprofit and the sponsor, driving substantial donations.

9. Matching gift challenges

Matching gift challenges encourage donors to double their impact, making every dollar count. Seek out major donors or businesses willing to match contributions during a specific period or campaign. This motivates more people to give and creates a sense of urgency, which can increase overall fundraising.

10. Endowment drives

Endowment gifts provide lasting financial stability for nonprofits. Approach major donors with a vision of how their contribution will secure your organization’s future. Endowments often appeal to those who want their legacy to support your mission for years to come, making them one of the largest gifts you can receive.

11. Exclusive donor experiences

Offering exclusive, behind-the-scenes tours or VIP experiences gives high-level donors a personal connection to your cause. Whether it’s a private dinner with key staff or a special look at your work in action, these experiences can entice larger donations and help you build stronger relationships with top supporters.

12. Major gift societies and giving circles

Creating an elite group of major donors creates a sense of community and recognition. Offering special perks, such as exclusive events or behind-the-scenes access, helps maintain strong donor relationships. Giving circles also allow donors to feel a deeper connection to your cause, encouraging recurring large gifts over time.

13. Planned giving programs

Planned giving introduces donors to options like wills, estates, and trusts, allowing them to leave a lasting impact on your nonprofit. These gifts are often larger than regular donations and provide long-term financial security. Planned giving also gives donors peace of mind, knowing their legacy will support a cause they care about.

14. Luxury raffle tickets

Luxury raffles offer high-ticket prizes like vacations or luxury cars, drawing in major donors while keeping things accessible for others. Pricing the tickets appropriately ensures you raise more funds without alienating smaller donors. The allure of winning something grand encourages participation and increases overall revenue.

15. Food and wine festivals

Gourmet experiences, like food and wine festivals, attract major donors who enjoy indulging in fine dining and exclusive tastings. Partner with local restaurants and wineries to secure sponsors and offer VIP access to exclusive food and wine pairings. These events are a perfect blend of indulgence and philanthropy.

16. Art shows or gallery openings

Art events appeal to donors with a passion for culture. Hosting a gallery opening or art show allows you to auction high-value artwork, often generating significant donations. Partnering with local artists and galleries improves your event while giving supporters a unique cultural experience that encourages generous contributions.

17. Celebrity partnerships and endorsements

Celebrities can draw attention to your cause, bringing in both media exposure and major donations. Partnering with a well-known figure adds credibility and star power, which appeals to larger donors. Whether through endorsements or appearances at events, celebrity involvement can significantly elevate your fundraising efforts.

18. Digital fundraising campaigns

Technology enables you to reach donors globally through digital fundraising campaigns. Engaging platforms allow major gifts to be secured from anywhere, expanding your donor pool. Personalized outreach, virtual events, and online giving tools can make it easy for large donors to contribute, even from afar.

19. Scholarship funds

Encouraging major donors to establish scholarship funds helps them leave a lasting legacy. These funds support your cause and offer donors a sense of purpose, knowing they are directly changing lives. Scholarship programs often result in continued support from donors as they see their impact year after year.

20. Capital campaign-specific dinners or cocktail hours

Hosting small, high-end gatherings like dinners or cocktail hours for key stakeholders helps secure major gifts. These intimate settings offer a more personal connection between donors and your cause, inspiring generosity and deepening relationships. These events showcase progress and discuss future goals, creating a meaningful donor experience.

21. Naming bricks, plaques, or donor walls

Visible recognition, such as naming bricks, plaques, or donor walls, encourages major gifts by providing lasting acknowledgment. Donors appreciate the public recognition of their contribution, and these methods offer a tangible way for them to feel connected to your organization’s success and growth.

22. Multi-year pledge campaigns

A multi-year pledge campaign encourages donors to commit larger amounts spread over several years. This long-term strategy builds financial stability for your nonprofit while creating a sustained relationship with donors. It allows donors to make a bigger impact while remaining manageable over time.

How to keep your big money fundraising ideas sustainable

Sustainability is key to big money fundraising. To ensure your efforts go beyond a single event, focus on building relationships with donors that foster long-term support. Recurring donations, major gifts, and ongoing engagement are all products of trust and connection. Use analytics and donor feedback to continually improve your strategies, adapting your approach based on what resonates most. You can maintain a steady stream of meaningful contributions when you keep your organization top of mind through consistent communication, special events, and personalized updates.

Big money fundraising ideas provide a lasting impact

Big money fundraising ideas have the potential to transform your nonprofit and its mission. These strategies go beyond hitting financial goals—they create lasting change and inspire supporters to invest deeply in your cause. With a little creativity and the right approach, nonprofits can overcome challenges and turn bold visions into reality.

To take your fundraising to the next level, explore the tools and resources Silent Auction Pro offers. Our powerful event management software helps you streamline every aspect of your auction or event, making it easy to raise big money while minimizing stress. Interested in learning more? Request a free demo and discover how Silent Auction Pro can help you confidently implement these strategies, all while making fundraising more enjoyable for you and your team.

The future of your nonprofit’s fundraising success starts with big ideas—and Silent Auction Pro gives you the right support to bring those ideas to life.