Case Study: Chico State University boosts fundraising efficiency and donor cultivation with Blackbaud Fundraiser Performance Management

Chico State University uses innovative fundraising tools to strengthen donor cultivation, improve gift officer efficiency, and boost funds raised

California State University—Chico faced an organizational restructure and the sudden shift to remote advancement work during COVID-19, which threatened donor cultivation, gift officer efficiency, and progress on a major comprehensive campaign. Leadership needed better reporting, measurable goals and metrics tied to new roles, and tools to sustain stewardship and donor outreach while tracking officer activity.

Chico State implemented Blackbaud Fundraiser Performance Management and related Blackbaud solutions (analytics, award management, benchmarking) and engaged Blackbaud consulting to deploy predictive models, dashboards, and an activity center for contact reporting. The result was improved officer productivity, stronger donor qualification and outreach, uninterrupted remote fundraising operations, enhanced stewardship during crisis-driven giving, and clearer, data-driven progress toward campaign goals.

Chico State University

Evelyn Buchanan

Associate Vice President for University Advancement