Wayne State University, a leading R1 urban, public research institution in the state of Michigan, is preparing to launch the public phase of its third comprehensive fundraising campaign. This campaign aims to inspire significant philanthropic support; elevate the University’s visibility; and galvanize current and prospective donors, alumni, faculty, staff, students, and community partners around a shared vision for the University’s future. This RFP seeks a creative and strategic partner with deep experience in higher education and/or missiondriven comprehensive fundraising campaigns to provide comprehensive campaign counsel, helping to ensure outcomes that inspire philanthropy and engagement across diverse audiences. The University is preparing for the public phase of this campaign amidst a period of institutional transition, including a presidential leadership change, evolving budgetary and resource realities, and a heightened focus on cross-campus collaboration and principal gift strategy. The selected firm will serve as a strategic partner to DAA leadership, staff, and partners, providing expert guidance to sustain campaign momentum, ensure continuity, and support nimble alignment across complex divisions and university initiatives.
