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A Commitment to Service, Experience, and Relationships

Mark Davy & Associates was founded on the belief that successful fundraising is built on trust, clarity of purpose, and strong relationships.

For more than 36 years, we have partnered with churches and nonprofit organizations to help them discern their vision, engage their communities, and secure the resources needed to move their mission forward.

From the beginning, our work has been grounded in listening carefully, providing honest counsel, and guiding organizations through a thoughtful and respectful fundraising process.

Our primary focus has been on capital campaigns that have reached goals of modest amounts in the hundreds of thousands to the tens of millions.

Our Founder: Mark Davy

Mark began his fundraising career as a private high school director of development, where he worked for six years and developed a nationally acclaimed capital campaign model.

He then moved on to a position at the University of Minnesota where he served as Development Director for the School of Nursing, Pharmacy and Public Health. Three years later he was recruited to direct football coach Lou Holtz’s Champion’s Fund and later became Assistant Athletic Director in charge of external operations. Mark was one of only a few people to receive an honorary “M” from the University of Minnesota Athletic Department.

After leaving the University, Mark founded Mark Davy & Associates and directed the success of hundreds of capital campaigns for churches, schools and other nonprofits, totaling more than $500 million. He was awarded the 2010 Association of Fundraising Professionals’ Outstanding Professional Fundraiser of the Year in 2010 and had been referred to as the “king” and “wizard” of fundraising by the St. Paul Pioneer Press.

His expertise, knowledge and innovative thinking continues to be a lasting legacy for Mark Davy & Associates and the clients we serve.

Our Experience

For well over three decades, Mark Davy & Associates has worked with hundreds of churches and nonprofit organizations throughout Minnesota and the Upper Midwest. Our clients have raised hundreds of millions of dollars to support new facilities, renovations, and program/ministry expansion.

We bring experience across a wide range of organizations, sizes, and project types, allowing us to tailor our approach to each client’s unique culture and goals.

Our Approach

We believe fundraising is not simply about dollars raised, but about strengthening relationships and aligning people around a shared vision. Our approach emphasizes:

  • Thoughtful planning and preparation

  • Clear and compelling communication

  • Strong volunteer and leadership engagement

  • Respectful, relationship-centered donor outreach

  • Ongoing guidance throughout the process

Serving Churches and Nonprofits

Mark Davy & Associates specializes in capital campaign consulting for churches and nonprofits. We understand the unique leadership structures, decision-making processes, and stewardship values within faith-based and nonprofit organizations, and we tailor our counsel accordingly.

Our role is to support leaders as they discern next steps, build consensus, and lead their organizations with confidence.

Professional Affiliations

Mark Davy & Associates is proud to be affiliated with professional organizations that reflect our commitment to ethical practice and excellence in fundraising, including:

  • Association of Philanthropic Counsel

  • Association of Fundraising Professionals

These affiliations underscore our dedication to professional standards, continuing education, and best practices in the field.

Looking Ahead

As we continue our work, those at Mark Davy & Associates remain grateful for the opportunity to partner with organizations that strengthen communities, serve others, and advance meaningful missions. We look forward to walking alongside churches and nonprofits as they plan for the future with purpose and hope.

How do we learn more?

Please contact us for a complimentary phone, video conference, or in-person meeting to discuss your church or nonprofit's vision and how we can help you achieve it.
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