That first major donor meeting can feel intimidating – but with the right preparation and strategy in place, it's an opportunity to build a meaningful philanthropic relationship that could transform your organization's impact.

In this episode from the Fundraising Lab archives, we're joined by Deb Thompson as we provide expert fundraising coaching on how to prepare for an upcoming major gifts meeting with a prospective foundation funder. Whether you're reconnecting with a past supporter or meeting with high-capacity donors for the first time, this conversation covers essential major gifts strategies for turning that initial meeting into a long-term donor relationship.

Together, we walk through the critical elements of successful major donor meetings – from donor prospecting research and goal setting to asking the right discovery questions and creating clear next steps.

We cover:

• How to research major donor prospects, set meeting goals, and understand their giving patterns and priorities
• The art of discovery calls: asking the right questions, listening well, and learning what donors truly care about
• Creating effective calls to action and securing permission for meaningful follow-up that moves the relationship forward

If you're preparing for your first major gift meeting or looking to strengthen your major donor cultivation strategy, this episode offers practical fundraising best practices to help you build authentic relationships with foundation funders and high-capacity donors.

Resources and links: Check out Debra Thompson and host Cathy Mann on LinkedIn Book your Fundraising Growth Game Plan call Email us at [email protected] Subscribe to our email list Share this episode with a friend!

Podcast editing and post-production by: Daniella Sorrentino at Feral Culture Lab

Music: Intro and Outro Music is Fancy Free by Reveille at Soundstripe