Is There Ever a Bad Time to Run a Capital Campaign?

Описание: There is always someone in the room who believes the timing is wrong, the moment feels uncertain, and waiting sounds safer than moving forward.


In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, hosts Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt tackle one of the most common objections heard in boardrooms and leadership meetings: the belief that now is a bad time to raise money. Drawing from a real dinner conversation and decades of campaign experience, they unpack why this concern surfaces year after year and why it continues to stall bold plans.


Amy and Andrea explore how uncertainty shapes donor behavior and how strong organizations respond when the climate feels unsettled. They share what they see across hundreds of campaigns during economic shifts, political tension, public health crises, and periods of social change. The conversation highlights a pattern that surprises many nonprofit leaders: organizations with a clear vision, strong leadership, and thoughtful donor relationships continue to raise significant gifts in every season.


The episode walks through common fears voiced by board members and major donors, including anxiety about financial markets, concerns about personal security, and questions about generational giving. Amy responds with practical insight grounded in real campaign results, showing how donors continue to act generously when they feel connected to meaningful work and trusted leadership.


Listeners will hear how instability often sharpens a case for support, motivating long time donors to lean in when public funding tightens or community needs grow. The discussion also addresses planned giving, stewardship, and the lasting impact of how donors feel after they make a gift. Andrea emphasizes how thoughtful follow up and personal connection influence future generosity far more than headlines or economic forecasts.


The episode closes with a powerful reminder that capital campaigns unfold over years, not moments. Leaders who keep planning and stay in conversation with donors place their organizations in a stronger position when conditions shift again, as they always do. For anyone facing hesitation from a board, an executive director, or even their own internal doubts, this episode offers language, perspective, and confidence to keep moving forward.


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