We talked about “Namestorming” as a strategy for adding prospective donors to your database. This article expands on the “networking” advice given previously. Truly networking is the most effective way to build a database. What does it look like? 

1. The...

So it’s time to write an appeal letter for your nonprofit. You sit down and look at a blank page. Ugh… hate that feeling.

Well, at least for your next appeal, you don’t have to worry!

After last week's post - 10 Tips to Raise More Money With Your Next Fundraising Appeal...

 Tip 1: Merge Fields Are Your Friend

There is absolutely no excuse to not mail merge letters or merge in someone’s first name into an email. This technology has been around for two decades and is commonplace with all email services. You can even do it in Gmail using third-party plugins...

This is part two of a two-part series walking you through a typical grant application. Part 1 can be found by CLICKING HERE. 

In last week's article, we discussed the common sections of a grant application: the nonprofit's general information, an executive summary, a statement...

This is part one of a two-part series walking you through a typical grant application. Part two can be found here. 

If you want to write for grants, it will only take you two or three applications to see a pattern emerging of what the potential funders are looking to gather. Typically, a...

With Google, YouTube, and the blogosphere, it’s easier than ever to DIY just about everything. Fundraising is no different. I often encourage clients to Google things and use the internet to help them brainstorm or overcome hurdles. What I do find, however, is that there is great...

Scoping Out a Gift Before Asking

Years ago, I worked with a financial and fundraising firm in Chicago. I was tasked with training a group of parish leaders in making an ask asks for a diocesan capital campaign. 

The VP of Advancement for the diocese wanted to run the campaign internally to...

Prepare to Make Next Year Your Best Fundraising Year Yet

1. Prep Your Annual Summary of Giving Receipts

I recommend organizations send two tax receipts per gift. The first tax receipt immediately following the donation, within 48 hours (even if someone gives online and receives...

So you are thinking of starting a nonprofit? THAT IS EXCITING!

One of the things I am asked for advice on most often is starting a nonprofit. When I started a nonprofit for the first time I made some mistakes. It was expensive, inefficient, and I did not understand what I was doing. After...