102. Transforming Major Gifts: How ModernICG Is Shaping the Future of Fundraising
About this episode
After nearly three decades in the world of major gifts, I’ve learned that true transformation in fundraising doesn’t come from a single “aha” moment — it comes from a relentless commitment to learning, adapting, and building community.
As much as we honor the past, we know the world of major gift fundraising is changing. Donor expectations are evolving, technology is racing ahead, and the challenges we face are more complex than ever. That’s why, as of January 13, 2025, my company, Fundraising Transformed, has acquired the Institute for Charitable Giving, also lovingly known as ICG.
And together, we’ve launched the "Modern" Institute for Charitable Giving (ModernICG). It’s a dream come true for me. And I believe, a turning point for our sector. This isn’t just a name change or a rebrand — it’s a bold leap forward for our sector, and I believe it’s exactly what we need right now.
Why ModernICG Matters — Now More Than Ever
Imagine standing at the intersection of legacy and innovation, where the wisdom of fundraising giants meets the energy of the future. What if you could access the very best in major gift fundraising education, not just from your city or state, but from anywhere in the world?
Well, that future is here.
I’m a lifelong major gift fundraiser, trainer, and believer in the power of intentional giving. For years, I’ve had the honor of working alongside some of the brightest minds in our sector, and today, I get to share a milestone that’s not just close to my heart — it’s a leap forward for our entire major gifts fundraising community.
What An Incredible Legacy
Let me take you back to my first days as faculty, and later as Dean, at the Institute for Charitable Giving. I remember walking into a room filled with eager fundraisers, each one carrying the hopes of their organizations and the dreams of the communities they served. Over the past 34 years, the Institute for Charitable Giving has trained over 12,000 professionals from more than 9,000 organizations. That’s a legacy built on the shoulders of visionaries Jerold Panas and William Sturtevant — names you probably know if you’ve ever cracked open a classic fundraising book or attended one of their legendary seminars.
Pause for a moment and ask yourself: When was the last time you felt truly energized by a professional development experience? Not just informed, but transformed? What would it mean for your work and your mission if you could access the absolute best major gifts training, coaching, and community, all in one place, without ever leaving your office or home?
The Pain Points We All Face
Let’s be honest. The world of major gifts isn’t what it was even five years ago. We’re seeing a shift in donor demographics, with younger philanthropists stepping up and bringing new values to the table. Artificial intelligence and predictive analytics are changing how we identify and engage donors. And after the global disruptions of the past few years, accessibility and flexibility in learning are no longer nice to haves-they’re essential.
Think of it like this: If fundraising were a symphony, the instruments are evolving. We still need the timeless melodies — the relationship-building, the artful asking, the stewardship. But we also need new harmonies: digital tools, data-driven insights, and inclusive practices that resonate with today’s donors.
Consider this very likely scenario for many major gift fundraisers. You're a small or a mid-sized nonprofit. Your team is passionate but stretched thin. Travel budgets have been slashed, and in-person conferences are out of reach. But what if you could participate in a certified, three-day virtual major gifts fundraising seminar — led by the best major gift fundraising faculty in the sector — without the high cost of travel and lodging? Not only could you learn new and innovative strategies, you would get real-time one-on-one coaching with faculty, learn from peer-led group problem-solving round table discussions, participate in a dynamic major donor stewardship panel, and leave with a plan you could put to use immediately. And within six months, possibly secure your largest gift ever.
That’s the power of accessible, hands-on learning. And that’s what ModernICG delivers.
What Works: Practical Strategies for Today’s Fundraisers
A colleague recently asked me why ModernICG? Without hesitation, I answered: because major gift fundraising is changing.
ModernICG is more than a new name — it’s a new approach to learning. The biggest change is our move to a fully virtual seminar model, eliminating travel and making high-quality, hands-on training more accessible and affordable for fundraisers everywhere.
Participants will get three dynamic days of live, CFRE-certified training, plus:
One-on-one Park Benching sessions for personalized coaching with faculty
Peer-led Round Tables for practical problem-solving
Expert-led major donor Stewardship Panels to spark new ideas and approaches
A focused, interactive curriculum designed to help them apply what they learn right away
No travel, no complicated logistics — just focused, actionable learning from wherever you are.
What sets ModernICG apart from other courses and webinars is that it brings together proven, time-tested fundraising principles with innovative strategies and tools for today’s fast-moving philanthropic landscape. Here’s what makes us unique:
A reimagined curriculum built specifically for modern major gift fundraising challenges, combining the rich legacy of fundraising pioneers with today’s most forward-thinking strategies.
The best major gifts faculty in the sector — real-world expert practitioners in major gifts, donor psychology, AI, and ethical and inclusive fundraising.
100% virtual seminars for ultimate flexibility and accessibility. No more travel or hotel costs — ModernICG brings world-class fundraising education straight to your screen.
Signature sessions like Modern Moves Management, The Art of the Ask, and Modern Planned Giving.
Interactive and connected training format built for real-time engagement.
New modules on AI in fundraising, engaging younger donors, and inclusive and responsible giving strategies.
Practical training on using AI to boost efficiency and predictive analytics to identify high-potential donors.
Membership in the Apex Community, created exclusively for ModernICG seminar graduates, for continued learning, networking, and growing together — longer after the seminar ends.
Lower individual and group registration fees, making the sector's best major gifts fundraising education more accessible for fundraisers everywhere.
Earn CFRE credits to advance your professional development.
With ModernICG, you’re not just learning — you’re transforming the way you work, think, and lead in the world of major gifts.
I want you to try something: Grab a notebook and jot down the biggest challenge you’re facing in major gift fundraising right now. Is it finding new prospects? Making the ask? Stewarding donors? Creating a case for support? Diversifying your funding? Effectively communicating impact? Whatever it is, bring it with you to our seminar on October 13-15. Our faculty and your peers will help you tackle it head-on.
Real-World Impact: The Numbers Don’t Lie
Let’s zoom out for a moment and look at the bigger picture. In 2025, we’re seeing:
A surge in digital giving. Online donations are at an all-time high, and major donors expect seamless, personalized experiences.
The rise of younger donors. Millennials and Gen Z are making their mark, often prioritizing transparency, impact, and social justice.
AI and predictive analytics. More organizations are using data to identify and engage high-potential donors, saving time and boosting efficiency and results.
A focus on equity and inclusion. Funders and nonprofits alike are re-examining their practices to ensure giving is accessible and impactful for all communities.
ModernICG is designed to help you not just keep up with these trends, but lead the way.
Recommended Tools and Resources
In my experience, the right tools can make all the difference. Here are a few I recommend:
ModernICG Virtual Seminars: Three days of live, CFRE-certified training, personalized coaching, and peer learning — all online.
Apex Community: An exclusive network for seminar graduates to continue learning and growing together.
AI and Predictive Analytics Platforms: Tools like DonorSearch, Gravyty, and Salesforce Nonprofit Cloud can help you identify and engage top prospects more efficiently.
Digital Engagement Solutions: Platforms like Classy, Givebutter, and Fundraise Up streamline online giving and donor stewardship.
Actionable Takeaways for Your Organization
Let’s get practical. Here are three things you can do right now to step into the future of major gift fundraising:
Assess Your Skills: Take a hard look at your current approach. Where are you strong? Where could you grow? Consider how new tools or strategies — like AI or digital engagement — could amplify your results.
Invest in Learning: Whether it’s ModernICG or another program, commit to ongoing professional development. The landscape is changing fast, and staying current is key.
Build Your Community: Connect with peers, mentors, and experts. Major gift fundraising is a team sport, and your network is your greatest asset.
Let’s bust a few fundraising myths while we’re here:
Myth #1: Major gifts are only for big organizations. Not true. With the right approach, any organization can build a robust major gifts program.
Myth #2: Virtual training isn’t as effective. False. With interactive sessions, real-time coaching, and peer support, virtual learning can be even more impactful — and accessible — than traditional models.
Myth #3: AI will replace fundraisers. Absolutely not. AI is a tool, not a replacement. It frees you up to do what you do best: build authentic major donor relationships.
Looking Ahead
If I’ve learned anything in my career, it’s this: fundraising isn’t about money — it’s about dreams. The best time to invest in your growth was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.
I’d love to personally invite you to our inaugural virtual Major Gifts Fundraising Seminar as ModernICG, happening October 13-15. You’ll get three dynamic days of CFRE-certified training, one-on-one ParkBenching sessions with faculty, and group RoundTables to tackle your toughest fundraising challenges. Early Bird registration ends June 6 — sign up now to save $100, and if you’re bringing a team of five or more, you’ll save even more.
So, what’s your next intentional step? Will you invest in your growth? Will you bring your fundraising challenges and your dreams to the table? The future is wide open. And it’s waiting for you.
Keep transforming,
Tammy Zonker
President, Fundraising Transformed
President, Modern Institute for Charitable Giving
ps – Early Bird registration ends June 6 — sign up now to save $100, and bring your team for even greater savings. Check out the full curriculum, meet the faculty, and register at ModernICG.com.
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