CNE Major Gift & Capital Campaigns 3

Question 1

Which ratio best indicates a healthy return on investment for a mature major gifts program?

Accepted Answer

$10 raised for every $1 spent

Answer

A well-run major gifts program typically achieves a 10:1 return, though ratios vary by organization size and donor maturity.

Question 2

A donor offers to give $250,000 to a capital campaign but stipulates it must be matched dollar-for-dollar. This type of gift is called a:

Accepted Answer

Challenge grant

Answer

A challenge grant motivates other donors to give by promising to match contributions up to a set amount within a defined period.

Question 3

When a capital campaign extends beyond its original timeline, what is the most common cause?

Accepted Answer

Underestimating the number of prospects needed in the pipeline

Answer

Campaigns stall when the prospect pool is too small relative to the goal, leaving too few qualified donors to close the remaining gap.

Question 4

A nonprofit executive director makes a major gift solicitation call without a volunteer or board member present. What risk does this create?

Accepted Answer

The donor may feel the organization lacks broad community support

Answer

Peer-to-peer solicitation is more persuasive; staff-only asks can signal weak volunteer engagement and reduce donor confidence.

Question 5

Which document formally commits a donor to fulfilling a multi-year capital campaign gift?

Accepted Answer

A pledge card or pledge agreement

Answer

A signed pledge card or pledge agreement documents the donor's commitment, payment schedule, and any gift restrictions.

(CNE) Certified Nonprofit Executive Practice Test