Franklin University partnered with Benefactor Group to enhance its advancement efforts and position itself for increased philanthropic investments across various programs, including annual giving, planned giving, major gifts, and special events. After receiving a development assessment, Franklin University continued its collaboration with Benefactor Group to create an organizational case for support. Consultants leveraged insights from previous engagements and conducted additional discovery to design the case structure, slide deck, and the final case for support.

Campaign Study
In 2017, following the acquisition of Urbana University, Franklin University engaged Benefactor Group to conduct a campaign study assessing the philanthropic appeal and availability of leadership gifts for a proposed $3 million campaign focused on a new athletics facility, scholarships, and technology enhancements. The study involved interviews with 10 key university stakeholders and discussions with the campaign task force to gather feedback on Urbana University’s strengths, challenges, and the campaign’s vision and objectives. Given the uncertain responses, Benefactor Group concluded that Urbana University was not yet prepared to pursue the capital campaign. Recommendations included pursuing major gift opportunities to support athletic facilities and scholarships, establishing a development office and systems, and rebuilding town-gown relations.

Development Assessment
In early 2018, Franklin University sought Benefactor Group’s expertise to establish a high-performing advancement program. Through a comprehensive discovery process—comprising fundraising data analysis, research and benchmarking, key stakeholder interviews, and an advancement program assessment—consultants gained insights into Franklin’s fundraising potential. Their research revealed substantial growth opportunities, leading to recommendations for building an advancement program capable of raising at least $3 million annually. Key suggestions included investing in staffing, creating a case for support, upgrading fundraising technology, and enhancing the university’s culture of philanthropy.