expert fundraising consulting for private schools & independent educational institutions
independent school fundraising
Achieve unmatched levels of philanthropy for your independent school
We believe in the power of philanthropy to ensure that quality education is accessible to all young learners. Because we understand that they shape the future.
We’ve worked with independent schools of all shapes and sizes including boarding, day, co-ed, single-sex, and international. Whether fundraising at your school is nascent or robust, we help build, enhance, and grow a culture of philanthropy that supports your students, school, and staff.
Working with Graham-Pelton has been a transformational experience. It has allowed us to dramatically increase our fundraising. I would recommend Graham-Pelton to any school.”
Cathy Callender, Director of Development, Marymount School of New York
Featured Partnership
Success Story: St. Benedict’s prep’s ambitious $100M campaign
Despite numerous obstacles, an extraordinary Newark, New Jersey school exceeded its fundraising goal in a comprehensive campaign driven by the power of community, ensuring that local youth have equal access to a quality education.
Select Independent School Clients
The Hun School of Princeton
Eastern US
La Scuola International School
WESTERN US
John Burroughs School
MIDWEST
Miss Hall’s School
Eastern US
British School of Milan
INTERNATIONAL
The Potomac School
EASTERN US
Campaign Feasibility and Planning Studies
Graham-Pelton’s approach to campaign feasibility ensures that you not only meet your campaign goal but also foster lasting change within your private school and its community.
We partner with you to create a tailored plan that delivers campaign results and sustained impact.
Graham-Pelton has been a driving force for the success of the largest campaign in our school’s history.”
Michael Treston, Director of Development, Malvern Preparatory School
Driven by Experience,
Inspired by Philanthropy
We understand the trends impacting education and recognize that each independent school is unique. We operate at this intersection, tailoring industry insights and expert strategies so they are relevant to the unique context, circumstances, and culture of your school.
Strategies You Can Feel
Confident About
Our extensive network allows us to tap into the collective wisdom and experiences of other nonprofits and the broader industry. We bring these invaluable cross-learnings directly to your independent or private school, enriching your fundraising efforts with fresh and innovative approaches.
Independent School Fundraising Insights
Private and Independent School Fundraising 101: Crash Course
For private and independent schools, fundraising plays a critical role in ensuring students receive a top-notch education.
But for their fundraising efforts to make a sustained, significant impact, schools need to go beyond the classic bake sales and car washes (although those are still fun choices).
Gratitude and giving back: Harnessing social reciprocity among parents
Opportunities to discuss “grateful parent” fundraising are driven by key moments in a family’s lifecycle with the school.
There are specific inflection points in a parent’s relationship with a school where they might be inspired to make meaningful gifts driven by gratitude, reflection, or a desire to pay it forward.
We are pleased to support our esteemed education industry partners
