Equip Your Board for Campaign Success

Capital campaigns open up exciting possibilities for nonprofits. They also bring plenty of questions and misconceptions.

Who leads the effort? What will board members be expected to do? How much should board members give?

These are questions I hear often. Clarifying the board’s role early helps everyone move forward with greater confidence.

First, what is a capital campaign?

A capital campaign is a focused, time-bound fundraising effort to support a major organizational priority. It invites donors to make transformational gifts above and beyond their regular annual support.

That priority might be a new building or renovation, but campaigns can also fund an endowment, program expansion, or investments that strengthen an organization’s capacity to serve its community.

Successful campaigns begin with a compelling vision, thoughtful preparation, and strong donor relationships.

Where does the board fit in?

Campaigns are a partnership among staff, board members, and campaign volunteers. Staff generally coordinate the day-to-day work, while volunteer leaders help engage donors and build momentum.

For board members, I emphasize three essential responsibilities:

• Exercise thoughtful governance: Ensure the organization has a clear and urgent vision, a realistic campaign goal and project budget, and evidence of donor support. A feasibility or planning study helps inform these decisions.

• Lead by example: Aim for 100% board participation through early, personally meaningful campaign gifts. Giving amounts will differ, but every member’s commitment signals to other donors that those closest to the organization believe in its future.

• Serve as an ambassador: Share the campaign story, make introductions, host small gatherings, and thank donors. There are many meaningful ways to contribute, and every member can play a role.

Board members are better equipped to participate when they have a clear campaign story, simple talking points, and specific ways to help that match their strengths.

How much should board members give?

There’s no single dollar amount that’s right for every board member. Each person should make an early, personally meaningful gift that reflects their circumstances and commitment to the campaign.

Invite each member into an individual giving conversation to explore what a meaningful stretch could look like, including the option to give over several years. Together, board members can help shape a collective giving goal that reflects their capacity.

The aim is 100% participation. Capital Campaign Pro’s 2026 benchmark report found that 67.4% of organizations with completed campaigns achieved full board giving. Early board gifts demonstrate confidence in the campaign and encourage others to participate.

Your board doesn’t have to fund the entire campaign. Its giving, relationships, and advocacy help bring a broader community of donors into the effort.