Like everyone in the industry, Avalon is in the process of analyzing year-end returns and assessing tests. One clear winner: the matching gift strategy.
One client had a slightly larger match to work with this year, which allowed us to set an earlier deadline with a portion of the match, and then extend it after the initial deadline. This strategy resulted in 39% more revenue than the previous year, raising 138% of budget. They’re starting work now on soliciting an even larger match amount for 2015.
A matching gift is a highly effective vehicle for engaging your major donors. Asking higher-level donors to pitch in to fund a matching gift challenge sends them a positive message about capacity building. It’s an opportunity for them to make a tangible difference and see exactly how their gifts impact your program. (Be sure to report back to your major donors with the rippling effects of their gifts on lower-dollar donors and the corresponding revenue.)
Other important points to remember for matching gift campaigns:
Read More