In this episode of Money to Give, host Rick Peck welcomes Nick Burgess, Principal at The Burgess Group, for an eye-opening conversation about how innovative insurance and financial strategies can dramatically expand the impact of philanthropy. Nick has worked with foundations, universities, and nonprofits to help unlock gifts that seemed unimaginable—sometimes turning a donor’s existing giving capacity into transformational, multi-million-dollar endowments. Nick shares remarkable stories, including how one foundation’s ambitious goal of building a $50 million endowment was achieved in just 60 days through creative planning with a single donor. He also describes his work with the Cleveland Clinic, where strategic use of insurance and financing has already secured $1.3 billion toward a $2.3 billion endowment. But this conversation isn’t only about big numbers. Nick emphasizes transparency, integrity, and education, noting that strategies like premium finance life insurance are not for everyone. “This should never be sold as a commodity or as ‘free insurance,’” he cautions. Instead, with the right donors, clear communication, and long-term management, these approaches can create extraordinary results for philanthropy. Listeners will gain insights into: How nonprofits and advisors can uncover untapped capacity for giving. Why endowment-building strategies need both vision and discipline. The importance of stress-testing, transparency, and fit when considering premium finance structures. How the right planning can ensure gifts endure and grow for generations. Nick’s expertise shines a light on possibilities many organizations don’t even know exist. For donors and nonprofit leaders alike, this episode offers a glimpse into what’s possible when generosity meets creativity and integrity.
