Endowment Fundraising is for You

In this episode of the First Day Podcast, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., is joined by Laura MacDonald, CFRE, Founder and Principal of the Benefactor Group. Laura discusses the critical role endowments play in fostering long-term financial resilience for nonprofits. She emphasizes that endowments, distinct from operating reserves or rainy-day funds, are strategic investments in which the principal remains untouched while annual draws (typically 4–6%) provide a steady revenue stream. With $12 trillion poised to transfer through generational wealth shifts, she highlights the unprecedented opportunity for nonprofits to secure their futures through planned giving and estate gifts. Laura dispels the myth that endowments are exclusive to large organizations. Instead, she advocates for any nonprofit with financial maturity, reserves, and strong donor relationships to consider building an endowment. She underscores the importance of aligning organizational leadership behind this long-term strategy and notes that endowments not only support sustainability but can also elevate annual fundraising efforts. Her advice includes engaging loyal donors by exploring their vision for the nonprofit’s future and positioning endowments as a way to secure their legacy and amplify their impact. The conversation also addresses criticisms of endowments, such as concerns about "locking away" funds while current needs persist. Laura provides practical solutions, like offering donors options to support immediate needs while endowment contributions accrue. She highlights that most endowments are funded by individuals rather than corporations or foundations and emphasizes that nonprofits must tailor their approach to each donor's values and preferences. By fostering transparency and showcasing the broader mission, nonprofits can address objections and engage donors effectively. Finally, Laura introduces key insights from her book, such as using storytelling to create a "perpetual hero" narrative for donors. Drawing on the research of Dr. Russell James, she explains how endowment conversations can inspire donors to leave a lasting legacy. The episode closes with resources from The Fund Raising School, including courses, webinars, and customizable training programs, to help nonprofits integrate endowment strategies into their overall fundraising plans. It’s a call to action for nonprofits to embrace the opportunity to secure their future while enhancing their impact today.