The Art & Science of Portfolio Strategy: Driving Fundraising Through Data-Driven Decisions

By operating at the intersection of data analytics and frontline fundraising, Portfolio Strategy Analysts serve as strategic advisors, helping development officers make informed, timely, and impactful decisions grounded in both the art and science of development work. This session presents a proven model for enhancing fundraising effectiveness through strategic forecasting and data-driven portfolio management. This webinar outlines a structured process that includes monthly portfolio check-ins, curated prospect referrals for pipeline building, and individualized portfolio reviews. These practices are supported by a robust forecasting framework that enables teams to anticipate pipeline gaps, identify high-potential prospects, and align solicitation timing with donor readiness. The result? Increased solicitation activity, improved donor engagement, and measurable growth in both the number and value of gift opportunities. In one fiscal year, this model helped drive a record $412M in fundraising for the Texas A&M Foundation.

Watch this on-demand webinar to gain actionable strategies for implementing a similar model—enhancing collaboration, improving forecasting accuracy, and driving sustainable fundraising growth through a data-informed, relationship-centered approach.

Presented by: Mattie Snell – Director of Portfolio Strategy & Research

Mattie Snell is the Director of Portfolio Strategy & Research at the Texas A&M Foundation, where she leads a team dedicated to advancing the Foundation’s mission through strategic insight and data-driven decision making. Under her leadership, the Portfolio Strategy & Research team serves as a trusted partner to the Development team, providing recommendations that enhance fundraising effectiveness and deepen donor engagement. Her work supports transformational giving by aligning donor passions with university priorities—creating gratifying gifting experiences for donors and driving lasting impact for Texas A&M University’s students, faculty, and programs. A proud Texas A&M graduate, Mattie is passionate about higher education and the role of philanthropy in shaping its future.