Key Term

What is Gift Range Chart?

Definition

A gift range chart, also known as a gift table or donor pyramid, is a planning tool used in fundraising that outlines the number and size of gifts needed to reach a campaign goal. It typically presents a hierarchical breakdown of donation levels, starting with a few large lead gifts at the top and progressively showing more numerous but smaller gifts toward the bottom, creating a pyramid-like structure of giving levels.

Significance

Gift range charts are crucial for successful fundraising campaigns as they help organizations develop realistic strategies and identify potential donors. They provide a roadmap for fundraising teams by showing how many prospects need to be cultivated at each giving level, helping to focus resources on securing the most impactful donations first. The tool also helps organizations assess the feasibility of their fundraising goals by comparing the required gift levels against their donor base's giving capacity and history. Without a well-constructed gift range chart, organizations may struggle to achieve their fundraising targets or waste resources pursuing unrealistic donation levels.