Building A Stronger Major Gift Pipeline - It's Definitely In The Data
October 14, 2025
Your next major donor is already in your database — do you know who they are?
A thriving major gift program doesn’t happen by chance — it’s built through strategy, analysis, and collaboration between research and fundraising teams.
At DonorRise Strategies, we believe prospect development is more than just gathering data. It’s about connecting the dots between donor potential and organizational purpose — helping nonprofits identify, understand, and engage the right supporters at the right time.
1. Strategic Analysis and Partnership Data becomes powerful when it’s applied with strategy. Prospect development professionals turn donor information into actionable insights — partnering with MGO's and fundraisers to prioritize portfolios, shape cultivation strategies, and align giving opportunities with donor interests.
I’ve mentored teams who are often amazed by how much insight tools like iWave, DonorSearch, and WealthEngine can uncover about a prospect. The first question I usually get — half-jokingly — is, “Wait… is this even legal?” Whether coaching teams on using data more effectively or strengthening CRM systems, we always balance efficiency with compassion — because donor relationships are built on trust. Respecting the privacy behind that data is central to how we work.
2. Prospect Identification and Qualification Finding new major donors starts with asking the right questions: Who has both the capacity and the connection to our mission?
Through data modeling, wealth screenings, and analysis of giving trends, DonorRise Strategies can help organizations build a proactive, continually refreshed pipeline. Each prospect represents a potential long-term relationship — not just a transaction. We’ve heard it said for years in the nonprofit world: donor relationships aren’t meant to be transactional — they’re meant to be transformational.
3. Prospect Management and Process Improvement A sustainable fundraising program depends on structure.
That means strong systems for tracking engagement, monitoring progress through cultivation stages, and ensuring clean, reliable data. From portfolio analysis to pipeline reporting, consistent management keeps fundraisers focused and informed. Balanced portfolios means not just current donors, but also new potential major givers.
4. Leadership, Training, and Ethical Stewardship Behind every strong development program is a commitment to professionalism and confidentiality.
Whether coaching teams on using data effectively or implementing CRM enhancements, we help nonprofits balance efficiency with care — because donor relationships are built on trust. Donor information is confidential, and we take seriously our responsibility to protect that trust.
When nonprofits combine data intelligence with human connection, generosity rises, missions advance, and impact deepens. Contact Us at DonorRiseStrategies.com to learn more.
~J. Mulcahy
