In the last 25 years, I have helped nonprofits and churches raise over $130 million. That's a lot of money, but here's the thing—it didn't come from a few massive gifts. It came from countless donations ranging from $50 to $5 million, all rooted in the same donor patterns.

The secret to successful fundraising isn't just about asking for money; it's about understanding why people give and what drives them to take action.

Whether you're looking for a small contribution or a major pledge, these are the fundamental principles I've seen repeatedly. If you can master these, you'll unlock the donor support that can truly transform your organization.

Clarity is Key: Donors won't give to a cause they don't fully understand. It's your job to communicate clearly about the vision and the impact their gift will have.

If You Don't Ask, You Won't Receive: One of the simplest truths is that if you're not asking for donations, you won't get any. Donors are waiting for an invitation to be part of the mission—don't hesitate to make the ask.

Ask for Enough: Underestimating the cost of a project or being timid in your ask will work against you. If you're not asking for what's truly needed, donors will doubt your understanding of the project and may question your competence in delivering it.

It's About Trust, Not Just the Project: Donors don't give based solely on the project's merits. They give based on your ability to deliver. You might have a compelling cause, but if a donor isn't confident in your ability to execute, they'll either walk away or give just enough to ease their conscience.

No Such Thing as Asking for Too Much: I've never insulted a donor by asking for too much. I once asked for $50,000, and the donor was flattered that I thought he could give that amount. He gave me $4,000—double what he had planned to give. Asking big can inspire donors to stretch beyond what they initially considered.

In fundraising, it's not about the amount you ask for but the confidence and clarity with which you present your vision. Don't be afraid to challenge your donors to think big and trust your mission. You might be surprised at the response.