Blog
Sharing insights, strategies and inspiration you can use right now.
This is where I share strategies, action steps, and ideas for scaling major gifts, and answers to questions that matter most right now.
Stewardship Techniques to Retain and Upgrade Major Donors
After nearly three decades in major gift fundraising, I've learned that securing a large donation is just the beginning. The real challenge - and opportunity - lies in nurturing those relationships for long-term impact. In this edition, I want to share some hard-won insights on stewardship techniques that can help you retain and upgrade your major donors.
84. Beyond the Ask: How Relationship Fundraising Can Transform Your Nonprofit
I recently had the privilege of chatting with the brilliant Ken Burnett, the father of relationship fundraising, about his newest book, "Relationship Fundraising, Third Edition. And let me tell you, it was eye-opening! Ready to revolutionize your approach to donor relationships? Tune in to this game-changing episode and discover how to keep your supporters engaged for the long haul!
Using Challenge Gifts from Major Donors to Boost Your Capital Campaign
I've seen firsthand how challenge gifts can supercharge a capital campaign. These powerful tools have the potential to ignite donor enthusiasm and drive fundraising success like nothing else. But I've also witnessed many organizations struggle to harness their full potential. Let's dive into how you can leverage challenge gifts to take your capital campaign to new heights.
83. Insights from the 2024 State of Capital Campaigns Benchmark Report
Hesitating to launch a capital campaign due to economic uncertainty, political turmoil, or fears of cannibalizing your annual fund? As a nonprofit leader, you're not alone in these concerns. But what if I told you that capital campaigns are not only viable but can be incredibly successful, even for smaller organizations? In this post, I'll share eye-opening insights from the 2024 State of Capital Campaigns Benchmark Report conducted by Capital Campaign Pro. After listening to my eye-opening conversation with Steven Shattuck, you'll have the confidence and knowledge to consider a capital campaign for your organization, regardless of its size or the current economic climate.
Tailoring Communication Strategies for Each Stage of Moves Management
Understanding how to tailor your communication strategies for each stage can make or break your fundraising efforts. When working with clients, I often see the common mistake of using a one-size-fits-all approach to donor communication. However, this method is ineffective and can lead to missed opportunities. Over the years, I've developed strategies that have consistently yielded desired results, and I'm excited to share them with you today.
82. From Stress to Success: Transforming Your Fundraising Mindset with Mallory Erickson
Have you ever felt overwhelmed, disconnected, or burned out in your fundraising role? As a development professional, I've certainly experienced those feelings. But what if I told you there's a way to transform your approach to fundraising that not only improves results but also enhances your well-being? In my recent conversation with Mallory Erickson, author of "What the Fundraising: Embracing and Enabling the People Behind the Purpose," we explored groundbreaking insights that can revolutionize how we approach fundraising. From understanding the science behind our stress responses to embracing alignment in our work, Mallory's wisdom offers a fresh perspective on an age-old challenge. In this post, I'll share key takeaways from our discussion that promise to help you overcome personal resistance, boost your confidence, and create better experiences for both you and your supporters.
5 Ways to Inspire Your Board Members to Become Major Gift Champions
After nearly three decades in the nonprofit sector, I've seen firsthand how a passionate, engaged board can transform an organization's major gifts program. But I've also witnessed the frustration many of you face when trying to get your board members actively involved in fundraising. Today, I want to share some strategies that have consistently worked for me and my clients to turn board members into enthusiastic major gift champions.
81. How Donors Feel About the Use of AI in Fundraising
Mind blown! I just had the most incredible conversation with AI fundraising experts Nathan Chappell and Cherian Koshy. Ever wonder what donors really think about AI in fundraising? These two brilliant minds joined forces to conduct groundbreaking research, and the results are eye-opening!
Developing a Major Gifts Pipeline: From Identification to Solicitation
After nearly 30 years in nonprofit fundraising, I've seen firsthand how a robust major gifts program can transform an organization. Yet, I've also witnessed countless development professionals struggle to build and maintain an effective pipeline. Today, I want to share some insights that have helped me and my clients overcome common challenges in developing a major gifts pipeline.
Responsible Use of AI in Major Gifts: Enhancing Relationships, Not Replacing Them
I've seen countless technological shifts in our field. But none have been quite as transformative—or as potentially concerning—as the rise of artificial intelligence in fundraising. Today, I want to share my thoughts on how we can responsibly leverage AI to enhance our major gifts programs without losing the human touch that's so crucial to our work.
Balancing Major Gifts & Annual Fund Efforts in Your Fundraising Plan
After nearly 30 years in nonprofit fundraising, I've seen firsthand how challenging it can be to balance major gifts and annual fund efforts. As a development director and consultant, I've grappled with this issue countless times. Today, I want to share some insights that I hope will help you navigate this common dilemma.
The Secret to Transforming Transactional Interactions into Authentic Relationships
Have you ever wondered why some nonprofits seem to have an unbreakable bond with their supporters while others struggle to keep donors engaged? The secret lies in transforming transactional interactions into authentic relationships. In today’s fast-paced world, nonprofits must go beyond mere transactions to foster genuine connections with their supporters. This blog post will guide you through the process of increasing supporter retention by developing these meaningful relationships. By the end, you'll have the tools to turn one-time donors into lifelong advocates for your cause.
Positioning Your Organization to Weather Funding, Political & Economic Uncertainties
Are you concerned about your nonprofit's reliance on federal funding in today's uncertain political climate? You're not alone. Many organizations are feeling uncertain and are grappling with the same challenge of diversifying their revenue streams to ensure long-term sustainability. But where do you start?
80. Bridging Crypto and Causes: Shaping the Next Era of Giving
Ever wondered how cryptocurrency is transforming the world of philanthropy? Join me in exploring this fascinating topic in my latest podcast episode featuring Pat Duffy, Co-Founder of The Giving Block.
79. Community Impact: The Power of Giving Circles
In my latest episode of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, we delve into the world of giving circles with Emily Rasmussen, the founder of Grapevine. We explore how giving circles are reshaping philanthropy, fostering community, democratizing giving, and amplifying the impact of small nonprofits.
78. The Transformative Power of Immersive Storytelling
Have you ever wondered how immersive storytelling can elevate your fundraising efforts? Join me in an inspiring conversation with the brilliant Shanon Doolittle and the amazing Chris Davenport as we explore the transformative power of storytelling in the nonprofit sector.
77. Community Catalysts: Inspiring Change with Floyd Jones
In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Floyd Jones to unpack the transformative power of community-driven philanthropy. From grassroots movements to global impact, Floyd shares his journey, insights, and strategies for success.
Unleashing the Power of Infectious Generosity with Chris Anderson
Delve deep into the concept of infectious generosity – a transformative approach to giving that goes beyond traditional philanthropy.
76. Building Bridges: Connecting Passion and Fundraising
Ever wondered how to infuse passion into your fundraising efforts? In the latest episode of the Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, I sit down with amazing Jeff Spitko and brilliant Laura Rice from the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance.
75. Unleashing the Power of Infectious Generosity with Chris Anderson
Join the infectious generosity movement! Chris shares insights, wisdom from philanthropy, and strategies for fundraisers. You'll learn the power of audacious asks, creative fundraising, and the joy of giving. It's a journey to deeper meaning and happiness.