A successful capital campaign isn’t just about raising big dollars — it’s about building internal alignment and board engagement that lasts long after the campaign ends.
At the center of every impactful campaign is a nonprofit board that understands its role, embraces its responsibilities, and feels equipped to lead with confidence.
What Makes Capital Campaigns Succeed?
Too often, organizations launch into a capital campaign before they’ve done the internal work. But the truth is, your campaign is only as strong as your leadership team — especially your board.
At Incite, we coach nonprofits to treat capital campaigns as both a fundraising initiative and a leadership development opportunity.
Here’s how to do it right:
1. Clarify the Campaign’s Purpose and Vision
Your board must be 100% clear on why this campaign matters. Use storytelling, real-life impact metrics, and strategic planning insights to show them the big picture.
We guide organizations through this in our Strategic Planning Services, ensuring every campaign has a mission-driven foundation.
2. Train Your Board Before You Launch
Before they’re expected to make asks or attend meetings with major donors, board members need support. We offer Board Training & Retreat Facilitation to help your board feel confident in their role.
A well-prepared board will:
Help shape the campaign message
Lead with their own commitments
Open doors to new prospects
Stay engaged through the full campaign lifecycle
3. Define Clear Roles and Responsibilities
Not every board member will be a frontline fundraiser, and that’s okay. Assign roles based on strengths—some may serve as ambassadors, others as strategists or connectors.
With Kari’s experience working as an executive director, fundraiser, and board member, she knows how to turn groups of passionate volunteers into high-performing campaign allies.
The Incite Approach to Capital Campaigns
From Capital Campaign Counsel to Recruitment & Orientation, our services are designed to make your board an asset — not an obstacle.
We believe in campaigns that don’t just raise money, but build momentum and leadership capacity across your organization.
🎙 Want more insight? Check out Kari’s candid thoughts in Kari’s Confessions Podcast for behind-the-scenes lessons on campaign success.
