“Wait...What Kind of Fundraiser Is This?” Why Knowing the Difference Between Cultivation, Solicitation, and Stewardship Events Matters More Than You Think

Hey hey! Let’s talk about something that sounds boring but is actually the key to unlocking more money, more momentum, and more mission wins for your nonprofit:

👉 Knowing what kind of event you’re actually planning.

I’ve been to a lot of fundraising events. (Like, a lot.) Some are amazing. Some are awkward. And some feel like a toddler threw a tea party and invited Grandma, the mayor, and a major donor with a checkbook, but nobody knows why they’re there.

Here’s the deal. Not all fundraising events are created equal. In fact, if you don’t know whether your event is for cultivation, solicitation, or stewardship you might be mixing your metaphors, confusing your guests, and leaving money (and ministry impact) on the table.

Let’s break down the three types:

1. Cultivation Events

AKA: The First Date

These events are designed to build relationships and spark interest. Nobody's proposing. Nobody's asking for money (not directly). It's about inviting people into your story and letting them catch the vision.

Think:

• Vision nights

• Volunteer appreciation dinners (yes, this is cultivation if you use it well)

• Behind-the-scenes tours

• Comedy nights that introduce new people to your ministry in a fun, low-pressure way 😊

Why it matters: Cultivation events are where trust begins. They warm the soil before you plant the seeds. Skip this step and you’re cold-calling donors instead of building relationships.

2. Solicitation Events

AKA: Pop the Question

This is where you boldly and clearly make the ask. Think galas, banquets, pledge drives, major donor gatherings.

You're not manipulating. You're inviting. And if you've done cultivation right? They’re already leaning in.

Why it matters: If you don’t make the ask, you don’t get the gift. But if you make the ask too early or to the wrong audience, it can get awkward fast. Think: proposing on the first date. Yikes.

Bonus tip: Hiring me for your banquet = built-in joy and a compelling ask. I specialize in helping ministries raise money while keeping the room laughing and leaning in. You bring the mission. I bring the mic.

3. Stewardship Events

AKA: The Thank You Party

These are for the people who’ve already said yes to your ministry. You’re not asking for anything here—you’re celebrating, honoring, and reporting back on the impact they’ve made possible.

Think:

• Donor appreciation events

• Coffee with the Executive Director

• Impact breakfasts

• Annual reports disguised as meaningful gatherings (pro tip: make it fun and food-forward)

Why it matters: Stewardship is the long game. It deepens trust and retention. When people feel appreciated, they stay involved and give again.

So…How Do They All Work Together?

Glad you asked.

Think of them like this:

🌱 Cultivation plants the seed

💌 Solicitation asks for the gift

🎉 Stewardship celebrates the harvest

You need all three. Skip one and you’re limping.

Here’s where it gets really important. Before you even put an event on your fundraising calendar, ask yourself: What’s the goal here?

Are we meeting new people? (Cultivation)

Are we making the ask? (Solicitation)

Are we thanking and updating? (Stewardship)

When you know the goal, you can build the event with the right tone, the right audience, and the right outcomes in mind. And spoiler alert: you’ll raise more money and make more friends that way.

How I Can Help

No matter what kind of event you’re planning, I bring a combo of clean comedy, compelling storytelling, and strategic fundraising insight to the table.

Need a fun, low-pressure cultivation event? I can headline your Comedy Night and casually introduce new people to your ministry.

Planning a high-stakes solicitation event? I’ll bring the laughs, lower the guard, and make a professional and compelling "ask."

Want to make your stewardship dinner actually feel like a party? Yep—I can help with that too.

Bottom line? Know what kind of event you’re hosting before you order the catering. And if you want someone who can make it powerful and unforgettable?

Let’s talk. I’m booking now for fall and spring events, and I’d love to partner with you.

Until then—keep planting, asking, and celebrating.

You’re doing incredible work.

Tim