Small Nonprofit: Fundraising Tips, Leadership Strategies, and Community-Centric Solutions
Further Together: Fundraising Strategies for Nonprofit Organizations
Welcome to Small Nonprofit, the podcast designed for leaders, fundraisers, and advocates in the nonprofit sector who want to create real change. We provide small nonprofit organizations with strategies to enhance their fundraising campaigns, improve nonprofit governance, and implement ethical fundraising practices that resonate with today’s values-driven donors. Hosted by an experienced nonprofit consultant, Maria Rio, this show delves into the unique challenges of nonprofit fundraising and community-centric fundraising, providing tools for donor engagement and major gifts fundraising.👤 Who Should Listen?This podcast is perfect for anyone involved in a small nonprofit seeking practical advice on fundraising strategy, nonprofit leadership, and board accountability. Whether you're looking for innovative fundraising ideas for nonprofit organizations or trying to create an impact measurement framework that demonstrates your organization’s value, Small Nonprofit is here to guide you.🎤 Core Topics We CoverCommunity-Centric Fundraising: Learn how ethical fundraising practices can strengthen donor relationships, enhance donor engagement, and align your organization with values-based major giving principles. We’ll help you shift from a donor-centric model to one that prioritizes the community.Systemic Change and Governance: From participatory budgeting to nonprofit board of directors best practices, we explore how to navigate the nonprofit industrial complex and embrace structures that foster diversity in nonprofit leadership and board accountability.Preventing Nonprofit Burnout: Tackle topics such as nonprofit burnout prevention and learn how to cultivate a healthy, anti-oppressive work culture that supports your team’s well-being.Nonprofit Storytelling: Understand how to measure your nonprofit’s effectiveness through nonprofit impact measurement strategies and leverage nonprofit storytelling to create compelling narratives that attract donors.📣 Engaging Conversations and Real-World AdviceIn each episode, we bring you insights from experts in fundraising consulting, nonprofit grant writing, and capital campaign strategies. From interviews with fractional fundraisers and major gift officers to deep dives on fundraising tips and innovative fundraising ideas, we offer actionable advice that you can implement immediately to strengthen your organization’s impact.💰 Learn How to Build a Sustainable NonprofitEvery nonprofit leader faces the challenge of achieving financial sustainability. Our episodes address critical fundraising strategies for nonprofit organizations, providing insights on volunteer management, capacity building, and nonprofit marketing strategy. Gain access to tools that help you execute successful fundraising campaigns and build a foundation for long-term growth.🤝 Join the Movement for Systemic ChangeAt The Small Nonprofit, we’re committed to transforming the nonprofit sector from the ground up. Our focus on systemic change and community-centric fundraising aligns with our mission to support nonprofits in creating equitable, sustainable communities. By addressing topics like values-based decision making and nonprofit transparency, we’re working to build a more ethical, inclusive sector.❤️ Stay ConnectedSubscribe to Small Nonprofit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your preferred podcast platform. Don’t miss an episode as we explore everything from fundraising tips to nonprofit social media strategy, and learn how you can become a stronger advocate for your organization’s mission.
Episodes
Mentioned books
May 9, 2023 • 25min
Asking for unrestricted funds with Aimee Lindenberger
Send us a textToday we'll tackle a common challenge faced by small nonprofits – obtaining unrestricted funds. It's no secret that while many organizations excel at securing grants and program funding, the quest for those vital, unrestricted annual operating funds can be an uphill battle. In this episode, we’re joined by Aimee Lindenberger, the founder of Refocused Fundraising, an expert in fundraising communications, key messages, annual appeals, and legacy giving. Listen in as we discuss the importance of unrestricted funds and how to effectively communicate their value to your supporters.Key Highlights:The importance of unrestricted funds for small nonprofitsHow to shift from program-based fundraising to vision-based asksTips for tapping into your organization's unique values and personalityThe benefits of humanizing your fundraising appeals and communicationsStrategies for balancing specific asks with broader, unrestricted funding goalsConnect with Aimee: Website: https://refocusfundraising.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aim%C3%A9e-lindenberger/Twitter: https://twitter.com/a_lindenberger?lang=enUnrestricted Funds Bonus: https://bit.ly/UnrestrictedFundsBonusSupport the show Connect with the show: Watch the episode on YouTube; follow Maria Rio on LinkedIn for more conversations and resources. Or support our show. We are fully self-funded! Book a Discovery Call with Further Together: Need help with your fundraising? See if our values-aligned fundraisers are a fit for your organization.
May 2, 2023 • 24min
Moving people with words with Jordana Merkin
Send us a textAre you struggling to connect with your audience and make an impact with your organization's messaging? In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, I speak with Jordana Merkin, founder and CEO of Voice for Good, about the power of words in moving people to action. Join us as we dive into the world of nonprofit messaging and show you how to make a lasting impact with your words.Key Highlights: The importance of a messaging guide for your nonprofitStrategies for crafting a consistent message that brings together all stakeholdersCommon messaging mistakes nonprofits make and how to avoid themThe power of language in motivating and moving people to actionConnect with Jordana: LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/jordana-merkin/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voiceforgood/Website: https://www.voiceforgoodmarketing.com/Freebie: https://www.voiceforgoodmarketing.com/prompts (download a free guide to building your messaging guide)Support the show Connect with the show: Watch the episode on YouTube; follow Maria Rio on LinkedIn for more conversations and resources. Or support our show. We are fully self-funded! Book a Discovery Call with Further Together: Need help with your fundraising? See if our values-aligned fundraisers are a fit for your organization.
Apr 25, 2023 • 24min
Can we agree to stop exploiting our staff? with Nicole Gagliardi
Send us a textAre you tired of watching your nonprofit's most passionate and dedicated employees leave due to burnout and exhaustion? It's time to address the elephant in the room - the exploitation of nonprofit staff. In this episode, we're joined by Nicole Gagliardi, an innovator and changemaker in the nonprofit sector with over 10 years of experience leading small nonprofits. Join us as we discuss the pervasive issue of staff exploitation in the nonprofit sector and explore practical solutions to create a healthier workplace culture. Key Highlights: Why the exploitation of nonprofit staff is a pervasive issueThe role of charity and scarcity mindset on this issue The importance of connecting sector-wide understanding with the daily lived realities of nonprofit workersWhy nonprofit organizations do not think of themselves as employersThe importance of creating a healthy workplace culture and how it affects the organization's missionUsing an equity lens to review HR practices Connect with Nicole: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolegagliardi1/Support the show Connect with the show: Watch the episode on YouTube; follow Maria Rio on LinkedIn for more conversations and resources. Or support our show. We are fully self-funded! Book a Discovery Call with Further Together: Need help with your fundraising? See if our values-aligned fundraisers are a fit for your organization.
Apr 18, 2023 • 23min
Stop gatekeeping nonprofit knowledge with Tiffany Allen
Send us a textOur sector has a clear response when someone asks about starting a nonprofit - “please don’t”. I’ve seen this in Facebook groups and discussions. But what if starting a nonprofit is an act of equity and justice? Tune in to hear from our guest, Tiffany Allen, CEO of Boss On A Budget, as she shares her experience and expertise in the world of nonprofit startups.Key Highlights:The challenges of starting a nonprofit and accessing vital informationKey questions to ask yourself before starting a nonprofitThe importance of having a vision and a plan for your nonprofitEssential skill sets for nonprofit foundersFirst things to outsource or get help withRecognizing the impact of small and new nonprofitsConnect with Tiffany: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BossonaBudgetWebsite: www.bossonabudget.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossonab/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bossonabSupport the show Connect with the show: Watch the episode on YouTube; follow Maria Rio on LinkedIn for more conversations and resources. Or support our show. We are fully self-funded! Book a Discovery Call with Further Together: Need help with your fundraising? See if our values-aligned fundraisers are a fit for your organization.
Apr 11, 2023 • 26min
Uncover the truth about status quo bias with Veronica LaFemina
Send us a textAre you struggling to turn your organization's strategic plan into a reality? Do you feel like your efforts to create change within your nonprofit are falling flat? Today on the podcast, I'm joined by Veronica LaFemina, a strategic advisor to nonprofit leaders with over 20 years of experience in change management. In this episode, Veronica shares her insights on why change often fails in organizations and what you can do to set yourself up for success.Key Highlights:The importance of implementing a strategic plan in organizationsThe significance of having a visible and engaged executive sponsorHow to involve staff members in the change process Different stages of change Being intentional about pursuing change in your organization Connect with Veronica:Website: https://lafemina.co/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vlafeminaSupport the show Connect with the show: Watch the episode on YouTube; follow Maria Rio on LinkedIn for more conversations and resources. Or support our show. We are fully self-funded! Book a Discovery Call with Further Together: Need help with your fundraising? See if our values-aligned fundraisers are a fit for your organization.
Mar 28, 2023 • 32min
get those elusive event sponsors with Mariah Monique
Send us a textHave you ever considered hosting an event for your nonprofit organization? Do you know how to incorporate sponsorship into the profitability of your event? In this episode of The Small Nonprofit podcast, Mariah Monique, founder of The Sponsorship Catalyst, shares some insightful tips on how to leverage strategic partnerships and potential sponsors to make your event a success. Key Highlights:How to get started with sponsorship for your nonprofit events The mistake nonprofits make in hosting an event and how to avoid itBuilding long-term relationships with potential sponsors and fundersHow to deliver meaningful experiences to sponsors and event attendeesConnect with Mariah:Website: https://www.thesponsorshipcatalyst.com/Free resource: What to offer sponsors https://colossal-hustler-635.ck.page/104885a769Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesponsorshipcatalyst/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thesponsorshipcatalyst/Support the show Connect with the show: Watch the episode on YouTube; follow Maria Rio on LinkedIn for more conversations and resources. Or support our show. We are fully self-funded! Book a Discovery Call with Further Together: Need help with your fundraising? See if our values-aligned fundraisers are a fit for your organization.
Mar 28, 2023 • 10min
behind the scenes of the Fractional Fundraising Movement
Send us a textIn today's episode of the Small Nonprofit Podcast, I'm introducing you to the Fractional Fundraising movement and our new private podcast series that will give you an inside look at how we do this revolutionary approach to fundraising that has helped many small nonprofits thrive. Key Highlights:What fractional fundraising is and how it can benefit fundraisers and charitiesThe behind-the-scenes of our Fractional Fundraiser AcademyThe stories and experiences of our current members in the networkIf you're interested in learning more, visit thegoodpartnership.com/pod to get exclusive access to our limited-time private podcast series. Don't miss out on the opportunity to change the fundraising game for your small nonprofit.Support the show Connect with the show: Watch the episode on YouTube; follow Maria Rio on LinkedIn for more conversations and resources. Or support our show. We are fully self-funded! Book a Discovery Call with Further Together: Need help with your fundraising? See if our values-aligned fundraisers are a fit for your organization.
Mar 21, 2023 • 27min
Overcoming isolation at work with Sean Kosofsky
Send us a textIn this episode of the Small Nonprofit Podcast, I’m joined by Sean Kosofsky, aka the Nonprofit Fixer, to discuss the impact of isolation on small nonprofit organizations in a post-pandemic world. Working remotely or changing jobs can leave nonprofit professionals feeling disconnected and lonely, but Sean offers practical advice for breaking through the isolation. Key Highlights:The impact of working remotely for small nonprofits Practical tools for combating isolation Productivity hacks: setting top three priorities and four-day workweek The importance of recognizing burnout and ways to overcome itCreating a meaningful environment for team collaboration Connect with Sean:Website: www.NonprofitFixer.com4 Day Workweek: https://www.nonprofitfixer.com/nonprofit-fixer-blog/the-complete-guide-to-implementing-the-four-day-workweekFREE Fundraising Strategy Guide: https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/guideSupport the show Connect with the show: Watch the episode on YouTube; follow Maria Rio on LinkedIn for more conversations and resources. Or support our show. We are fully self-funded! Book a Discovery Call with Further Together: Need help with your fundraising? See if our values-aligned fundraisers are a fit for your organization.
Mar 14, 2023 • 32min
Older audience? Find the next generation of donors with Emily Taylor
Send us a textAs donors get older, it's essential for nonprofits to find new, younger donors to keep their organizations running. In this episode of The Small Nonprofit, I talk to Emily Taylor, the founder of Teeny Big, where she helps nonprofit leaders create clear, defined paths to build engagement with people so they can achieve their goals faster. Emily talks about the challenge of engaging younger donors and her insights on how to understand and connect with them. Key Highlights:How can nonprofits better engage with younger donors?How strategic listening can help connect your organization with new audiences or deepen connections with existing ones.How can we recognize and overcome unconscious biases to make better strategic decisions?Connect with Emily:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-taylor-teenybig/Free worksheet on biases: https://mailchi.mp/teenybig/beyondbiasSupport the show Connect with the show: Watch the episode on YouTube; follow Maria Rio on LinkedIn for more conversations and resources. Or support our show. We are fully self-funded! Book a Discovery Call with Further Together: Need help with your fundraising? See if our values-aligned fundraisers are a fit for your organization.
Mar 7, 2023 • 33min
measuring your impact with Julie Gilbert
Send us a textAre you struggling to demonstrate your organization's impact? Are you looking for ways to engage your donors and keep them coming back? In this episode, I’m joined by Julie Gilbert, an independent consultant and coach in Julie Gilbert Consulting. She has over 25 years of experience working with public sector and nonprofit organizations, focused on helping organizations measure and communicate their impact. Julie talks about the meaning of impact, strategies and how solid measurement work can benefit organizations in attracting funding, and achieving their mission. Key Highlights:The meaning of impact Why it is crucial for nonprofits to communicate their impact to stakeholders, funders, and donors.How Julie’s Stepping Stones Impact framework can help nonprofitsWhat are the “impacts” that nonprofits should measure and strategies to evaluate changeHow to use narratives and storytelling strategy for impact measurementConnect with Julie:Website: Julie Gilbert Consulting: https://juliegilbertconsulting.com/ Impact Institute Academy: https://juliegilbertconsulting.com/impact-instituteLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliegilbert001/Support the show Connect with the show: Watch the episode on YouTube; follow Maria Rio on LinkedIn for more conversations and resources. Or support our show. We are fully self-funded! Book a Discovery Call with Further Together: Need help with your fundraising? See if our values-aligned fundraisers are a fit for your organization.
