How to Unlock a Transformational Gift This Year

I want to let you in on something I’ve been seeing again and again in our coaching sessions with fundraisers this year.

You have transformational donors in your caseload right now.

They’re sitting there—maybe even near the top of your list. They believe in your mission. They’ve already given generously. But they haven’t been invited into anything bigger.

No one has really seen them. No one has dared to dream big with them. No one has walked alongside them in a way that says, “We can do something extraordinary together.”

And that’s what I want for you—to begin that journey today.

So, what does it take? Not a magic strategy or a perfectly worded ask. It starts with vision—and it grows through relationship.

Here’s how you begin.

1. Slow Down and Really See Them

Let’s start by getting quiet and curious. I want you to sit down with your portfolio and look closely—not just at the numbers but at the people.

• Who are the 3–5 donors who light up when they talk about your mission?
• Who consistently show up in your giving reports with strong support, year after year?
• Who has the capacity to do more—and a heart that’s ready for it?

This isn’t about chasing celebrities or fishing in the dark. This is about the donors you already know and who know you. The ones who’ve shown that they care deeply.

Look at their history. Their interests. Their giving to other causes. What do you already know about them from your conversations, your gut, your heart?

This first step is about seeing—not with a spreadsheet, but with intention and care.

2. Invite Others to Dream With You

This is where the energy shifts. It’s time to move from observation to inspiration.

Gather your team. Sit with your program staff and ask them:

• “If we could dream big together, what would that look like?”
• “What would it take to close the biggest gap in our impact?”
• “What project could absolutely change the game for the people we serve?”

This isn’t about coming up with an arbitrary million-dollar idea. It’s about listening for the spark. The story. The urgency.

Then go to your leadership and ask:
 “Here are a few donors who are ready for something deeper. Would you be willing to meet with them, dream with them, walk this journey with me?”

It takes a village. It also takes boldness.

3. Build a Transformational Plan (That Breathes)

Now you’re ready to map out a path.

Not a rigid script. A living, breathing plan that guides your conversations over the next 12–24 months. One that includes:

• A bold vision that matches the donor’s passion
• A stretch goal that excites both of you
• Intentional steps to build trust, understanding, and inspiration

Start with connection. Revisit their passions. Share impact stories. Invite them into conversations about your organization’s future. When the time feels right, talk about the need, the gap, and the possibility.

Your plan should include space for leadership involvement, program staff, immersive experiences, and personal touchpoints. Let your donor feel the mission—not just see it on a slide deck.

This is not a checklist. It’s a relationship.

4. Walk the Journey—Even If It Gets Messy

Here’s what I want you to hear: Not every donor will be ready for a transformational gift. And that’s okay.

You’re not failing—you’re learning. You’re building trust. You’re showing up in a way that few fundraisers ever do. 

And sometimes, beautiful surprises emerge.

Years ago, I coached a fundraiser who had created a transformational plan for a donor giving $25,000 a year. Through one powerful conversation, she learned the donor’s late husband had volunteered and played music at the organization. That led to a conversation about creating a new music building—which eventually turned into a $7 million gift. Later on, that same donor gave a $24 million gift!

That would have never happened without the relationship, the vision, and the willingness to walk the road together.

This isn’t a formula. It’s a sacred journey.

Why This Matters So Much Right Now

In 2025, donors are craving meaning. They want connection. They want to see how their giving changes lives.

They don’t want more emails. They want more impact.

They don’t want pressure. They want partnership.

They don’t want to be managed. They want to be invited.

You’re the guide. You’re the one who can help them find joy and purpose through giving.

And right now—with government funding in flux, corporate gifts pulling back, and economic uncertainty looming—investing in transformational donor relationships isn’t just smart. It’s essential.

You already have what it takes.

So I’ll ask you this:

Who are the three donors you’re going to start dreaming with today?

Need help building your transformational gift strategy? We’d love to walk that journey with you. Let’s connect and talk about how we can support you in creating meaningful, lasting partnerships with your donors. Feel free to email us at hello@veritusgroup.com.