The Institute for Philanthropic Leadership's Leadership Gift School is a transformative cohort-based program takes place each Spring season and is designed exclusively for nonprofit CEOs and Development Directors who are committed to advancing their fundraising strategies and building highly trained teams.

Program Dates

• Fri. January 23 - In person
• Fri. February 20 - Virtual session
• Fri. March 27 - In person with board member participation
• Fri. April 24 - Virtual session
• Fri. May 29 - In person with final presentations

Key Focus Areas

‍Through LGS, you will gain the expertise needed to:            

• Increase individual giving and reduce reliance on corporate support.              
• Design and implement customized leadership gift strategies tailored to your organization.
• Cultivate funding opportunities that attract major gifts from $10,000 to $1 million+
• Foster long-term relationships with donors and grantors that lead to sustained funding.
• Involve your board in philanthropic advocacy and action.
• Foster a culture of ethical fundraising organization-wide.
• Make major and leadership gift development a top priority for your nonprofit.

‍Who Should Attend?

‍The LGS program is a hybrid experience comprising five sessions on Fridays from 9:30 - 3:30 EST, with the first and last being in-person and the middle three conducted via Zoom. Both CEOs and Development Directors are required to participate in all sessions, ensuring a cohesive and collaborative learning journey. Additionally, board members are invited to attend two of the modules to deepen their understanding of philanthropic best practices.

‍Program Fees

‍The LGS program costs $3,500 for each participating organization, which covers the CEO/ED and primary Development Director.  Additional members of the leadership team may participate for $500 each.

Dr. Patton McDowell, founder of PMA Nonprofit Leadership, serves as lead faculty and facilitator for the Leadership Gift School program.