Our Research Services

Successful fundraising begins with accurate, timely, and relevant information. Prospect research identifies, analyzes, and recommends avenues of financial support so that the fundraising goals of a non-profit organization can be realized. It is a technique used by fundraisers, development teams, and non-profit organizations to learn more about their donors and prospective donors – their personal backgrounds, giving histories, wealth indicators, and philanthropic motivations – and to evaluate a prospect’s ability to give (capacity) and warmth (affinity) toward an organization.

The role of research is essential at each stage of the development process: identification, discovery, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship. Our expert research team provides affordable, concise, and actionable information that can identify and prioritize prospects. Our research efficiently directs the efforts of fundraisers by providing support to data-driven decisions and informing solicitation and marketing strategies.

Our services include:

Prospect research profiles - learn more about our ViTreo prospect research here!

Prospect pipeline development

Identification of campaign funding sources

Identification of grant sources

Grant writing

Analysis of existing donors to identify those with the capacity to elevate their giving

Competitive reviews/Environmental Scans

Development of prospect management plans and processes

Vetting of board and volunteer prospects

In-depth wealth analysis

Identification of corporate prospects for marketing sponsorships and event underwriting

Research training and workshops

Supplemental research work during busy times

Temporary support during staff absences

Ken Kempcke, MA, MLIS

Ken Kempcke has over 25 years experience as a prospect researcher, grant writer, donor relations specialist, database administrator, journalist, editor, and academic librarian. He has played a significant role in successful fundraising campaigns across Western Canada and the United States.

Ken holds a Master of Library and Information Science Degree from Indiana University, a Master of Arts in American Studies from Purdue University and a B.A. History Degree from Eastern Illinois University. Ken is a long-standing member of the Association of Professional Researchers for Advancement.