What Do Midlevel Donors Really Want?

Midlevel donors are the backbone of many donor files. They represent a tiny percentage of all donors but generate a third or more of the income. The last study exploring the preferences and attitudes of these valuable donors was conducted by Sea Change and Edge research in 2008, and much has changed in 15 years. We thought it was high time to take a fresh look at the midlevel universe through the eyes of the donors themselves.

In this session, we will present critical learnings from a survey of more than 5,900 midlevel donors drawn from 36 different organizations. You’ll discover what motivates a second, annual, monthly, larger, and/or planned gift and who these donors are. We’ll also cover the stewardship treatment midlevel donors expect from organizations and the impact of recognition, benefits, and/or gifts on acquisition and retention.

Lastly, we’ll touch on the role of donor-advised funds and planned gifts, learn about midlevel donors’ digital habits, and explore the extent to which Millennials and Gen X are replacing Baby Boomers as the dominant force in midlevel philanthropy.

Key Takeaways:

• Identify the must-have strategies and tactics necessary to build and support a thriving midlevel giving program.
• Understand the three psychographic profiles that identify key differences in midlevel donors’ attitudes, expectations, and the necessary strategies for attracting and retaining them.
• Know the key to building a future-proof program amidst all the changes swirling around philanthropy today.