In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt dive into the delicate art of managing donor expectations when their funding ideas don’t align with your organization’s mission.

Drawing from a real-life scenario, they explore what to do when a wealthy donor offers a significant contribution—but with a catch. The donor’s vision, in this case, starting a goat farm in Africa, doesn't match the organization’s strategic goals or mission. How do you navigate this complex situation without alienating the donor?

Amy and Andrea share practical advice from a discussion with their CEO Roundtable, emphasizing the importance of sticking to your organization’s strategic plan while tactfully engaging donors in meaningful conversations.

Discover strategies for redirecting donor interests, avoiding mission creep, and preserving relationships—even when the proposed project doesn’t fit. Learn how to buy time, leverage your board, and maintain transparency with donors, all while upholding your organization’s long-term goals.

Key takeaways include:

• Tactful ways to decline donor proposals that don't align with your mission.

• How to use your board and strategic priorities as tools to guide conversations.

• The benefits of redirecting donors to other organizations when their passion projects don’t fit.

• Why generosity and collaboration with donors can lead to stronger, long-term relationships.

Andrea and Amy also highlight one of Capital Campaign Pro’s innovative services: the monthly CEO Roundtable, where nonprofit leaders from around the globe come together to discuss challenges and solutions related to capital campaigns. This episode is packed with wisdom for nonprofit leaders on how to handle tricky donor situations with grace and strategic foresight.

Tune in to learn how to keep your campaign on track, preserve donor relationships, and confidently steer your organization toward success.

Visit CapitalCampaignPro.com to learn more about how Capital Campaign Pro can help you manage your capital campaign and navigate these vital donor conversations.

Don't miss this insightful episode on managing donor expectations during your capital campaign!