What to evaluate, what to ask, and how to tell demonstrated capability from a polished pitch.
Choosing the right capital campaign consulting firm is one of the most important decisions a nonprofit can make when preparing for a major fundraising effort. The right partner brings experience, objectivity, strategic clarity, and the ability to help your organization achieve results that would be difficult to reach alone.
Key Factors to Evaluate
Proven Experience and Track Record
Look for a firm with decades of experience, not just a handful of campaigns. Ask how many organizations the firm has served and the collective results of those efforts. The Huddleston Group has more than 40 years of experience, has worked with over 1,000 organizations, and has helped raise more than $1 billion.
Relevant Credentials and Leadership
Professional credentials such as CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive) and FAHP (Fellow of the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy) signal a commitment to ethical practice and ongoing professional development. Leadership experience inside nonprofit organizations is equally valuable. Ron Huddleston, CFRE, FAHP, brings both consulting expertise and senior executive experience, including service as President and CEO of a major hospital foundation.
Collaborative, Tailored Approach
The most effective consultants adapt their methods to your organization’s culture, capacity, and mission rather than applying a rigid template. Seek a firm that listens carefully, builds genuine partnership, and equips your staff and volunteers rather than simply directing them.
Breadth of Services
A comprehensive firm can support the full campaign continuum — from feasibility study and planning through Case development, campaign management, and board strengthening. This continuity often produces stronger results than engaging multiple disconnected providers.
Geographic Understanding and Accessibility
While deep expertise matters most, regional knowledge and the ability to work effectively across locations add practical value. The Huddleston Group is based in Scottsdale, Arizona, maintains representatives in California, Colorado, Montana, South Dakota, Texas, and Wyoming, and has extensive experience throughout the Western United States and beyond.
Questions to Ask Prospective Firms
- How many capital campaigns has your firm guided, and what is the collective amount raised?
- Who will actually lead our engagement?
- How do you tailor your process to different organizations?
- What is your approach to feasibility studies and goal setting?
- How do you strengthen the board and internal fundraising capacity during a campaign?
Selecting a consulting firm is ultimately about trust, chemistry, and demonstrated ability to deliver. Organizations that invest time in this decision consistently report stronger campaign outcomes and a more positive experience for staff, board, and donors.
Related reading: Capital campaign feasibility studies · Frequently asked questions · Our fees
Considering capital campaign counsel?
The Huddleston Group welcomes confidential conversations with nonprofit leaders. Call (602) 920-3775 or email ron@thehuddlestongroup.com.