The Nonprofit Podcast Ep 163| The timing tightrope: Donor messaging in uncertain times
Is starting ‘the funding uncertainty’ conversation early, “crying wolf,” or leading with honesty and foresight?
Nonprofit leaders are walking a tightrope between transparency and alarm. In this episode, Jena unpacks how smart donor communications and strong donor relationships can build donor trust, even in the face of uncertain nonprofit funding.
Join us for a deep dive into the dilemma of when to talk to donors about funding shifts and possible impacts. Jena shares a middle path for messaging that balances preparedness with calm, and offers four tactical mindsets and tools to keep your community engaged, well before challenges intensify.
Discover why:
- The timing of donor messaging is a strategic decision, not a gamble.
- Early, scenario-based updates build trust more effectively than last-minute alerts.
- Share what you do know, name your values, and make small, meaningful asks.
- Fundraising is about community; don’t let crises be your only cue to connect.
Chapters
00:00. Navigating Fragility in Nonprofits
03:14. Communicating with Donors: Timing and Transparency
06:10. Building Trust Before Crisis
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