Glossary
Fundraising

Suggested Amount

By: Alec Hollingsworth
Updated:  
July 2, 2025

Definition:

Suggested amount is a recommended donation value presented to donors to guide and increase contributions.
A suggested amount is a specific donation value recommended to a donor during a fundraising appeal or on a donation form. This value can be based on data-driven insights, donor giving history, campaign goals, or psychological principles that encourage generosity. By offering a predefined amount, nonprofits make it easier for donors to decide how much to give, often increasing the average gift size. Suggested amounts can be presented as a single value or as a set of options, such as $25, $50, $100, and so on, allowing donors to choose an amount that aligns with their capacity and the organization’s needs.

Key Takeaways

  • Encourages donors to give at impactful levels
  • Based on data, donor history, or campaign goals
  • Customizable in fundraising platforms like Keela
  • Can increase average donation size

Why It Matters

Suggested amounts help boost donation size and streamline the giving process.

Real World Example

A local animal shelter runs a fundraising campaign to support their new adoption program. On their Keela-powered donation page, they display suggested amounts of $25, $50, and $100, along with a custom entry option. The shelter selects these amounts based on past donor behavior and the cost to care for each animal. Many donors choose the $50 or $100 option, feeling confident their gift will make a significant difference. As a result, the shelter sees an increase in average donation size and meets their fundraising goal more quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a suggested amount in fundraising?

It's a recommended donation value offered to donors when making a gift, often to guide and encourage generosity.

How do suggested amounts impact donations?

They simplify giving decisions and can increase the average donation size by providing clear options.

Can I customize suggested amounts in Keela?

Yes, Keela allows nonprofits to set and adjust suggested amounts for each campaign or donor segment.

Are donors limited to suggested amounts?

No, donors can usually choose a custom amount if they prefer a value different from the suggested options.

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