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
Jul 23, 2024 • 36min
Nonprofit Leadership & Governance: Why We Need More JEDI with Chris Talbot-Heindl
DEI or JEDI? Why are we putting Justice first? In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Chris Talbot-Heindel shares their expertise and insights on the nonprofit sector's need for justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) principles. Chris discusses how centering justice in our work can lead to collective liberation, the challenges of addressing white supremacy culture, and the power of learning and healing in community.They also explore the challenges faced by BIPOC individuals in predominantly white-led organizations and the importance of moving beyond performative allyship to achieve real, transformative change.Nonprofit Leadership & Governance: Why We Need More JEDI – The Highlights:Understanding JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion) and why it matters.Managing emotions when navigating difficult conversations and conflictsAddressing white supremacy culture and the pitfalls of performative DEI work.The importance of doing the work in community to foster mutual learning and accountability.Actionable tips for integrating JEDI principles into nonprofit leadership and nonprofit governance.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and donor engagement strategies that work! We're here to eliminate nonprofit burnout and boost your donations!About Chris Talbot-Heindel:Chris (they/them) is a queer, trans nonbinary, mixed-race artist, writer, comics creator, editor, and nonprofit laborer. After two decades of working in spaces that weren't built with her in mind, she now helps others build spaces ready to celebrate people when they turn up authentically. She works with Next 100 Colorado and Colorado Outdoor Equity Grant Program Coalition to create equity in the outdoors and environmental nonprofits, and Community-Centric Fundraising to create equity in fundraising and the nonprofit industrial complexLinks and Resources: Connect with Chris Talbot-Heindl on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christalbotheindl/Check out the website: https://www.talbot-heindl.com/Link to Chris's Tapas where my educomics live: https://tapas.io/episode/3152530Twitter: https://x.com/talbot_heindlInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/talbot_heindl/Learn more about JEDI Committee: https://jedicollaborative.com/Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newWatch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/Kb4NSqOS1w0 Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
Jul 16, 2024 • 42min
Nonprofit Culture and WHY Organizational Values Matter with Rickesh Lakhani
Are you walking the talk? In this episode of Small Nonprofit, Maria sits down with Rickesh Lakhani, Founder and Lead Consultant of Radiance Advisory, to discuss how nonprofits can truly align their organizational practices with their stated values. Rickesh highliths strategies for creating a culture of trust, addressing systemic issues, and holding leaders accountable to ensure that values permeate every aspect of the organization.He also shares steps on how to identify and bridge the gap between an organization's stated values and its actual practices, emphasizing the importance of feedback, vulnerability, and accountability.Nonprofit Culture and WHY Organizational Values Matter – The Highlights:Why living your values matters in nonprofit culture.The importance of addressing systemic gaps and aligning actions with your nonprofit's stated values.Practical steps for gathering and using feedback to drive cultural change.The critical role of leadership in creating safe and actionable feedback environments.Strategies to retain staff and prevent nonprofit burnout through intentional organizational practices.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and donor engagement strategies that work! We're here to eliminate nonprofit burnout and boost your donations!About Rickesh Lakhani:Rickesh has over 15 years of experience in social impact work, including being a Fundraising Director for a large charity raising $8M annually and an Executive Director for a small community-based organization serving children. Links and Resources: Website: https://www.radianceadvisory.com/ Connect with Rickesh on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/rickeshlakhani Connect with Rickesh on X: https://x.com/ConstantChanges Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newSpeak-Up Culture: When Leaders Truly Listen, People Step UpLiked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
Jul 9, 2024 • 29min
Transforming Donor Engagement Relationships with Storytelling & Technology with Owen O'Doherty
Do you find it challenging to turn one-time gifts into lasting relationships? In this episode of Small Nonprofit, Maria Rio is joined by Owen O'Doherty, CEO of DonorSee, to explore the art of storytelling and how small nonprofits can leverage technology to build engaged donor communities. Owen shares insights on using video, AI, and authentic storytelling to drive donor retention, donor engagement, and long-term impact.Transforming Donor Engagement Relationships with Storytelling & Technology – The Highlights:The power of authentic storytelling in donor engagement.Balancing the good and bad in impact stories to build trust.How DonorSee supports nonprofits with easy-to-use technology.The role of AI in reducing nonprofit workloads and improving donor communication.Tips for cultivating a community-centric fundraising approach.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and donor engagement strategies that work! We're here to eliminate nonprofit burnout and boost your donations!About DonorSee:DonorSee is a platform that allows a global community of people support nonprofits and fundraising organizations directly. They have two platforms: Donorsee.com that enables donors to give and receive video updates, showing the impact of their giving, and actionrise.com that enables nonprofits to launch their own branded fundraising platform out-of-box, delivering a donor experience and donor access that results in up to 30% new donors, and repeat giving at 3x the industry average.Links and Resources: Connect with Owen O'Doherty on Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/owenodoherty Check out the website: https://www.donorsee.com/ Rise by DonorSee: https://www.actionrise.com/ Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newWatch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/AOc-VDduIuE Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
Jul 2, 2024 • 32min
What You Need to Know about Nonprofit Mergers, Partnerships, and Asset Transfers with Michelle Shumate
Have you ever thought about merging your nonprofit with another organization? Or maybe transferring a program to another nonprofit? You might be thinking, "That sounds complicated and risky!" But what if strategic collaboration could be the key to unlocking your nonprofit's full potential? In this episode of Small Nonprofit, Maria Rio is joined by Michelle Shumate, professor at Northwestern University and founder of Social Impact Network Consulting, to explore how nonprofits can use collaborations, mergers, and asset transfers to maximize their impact. Michelle shares insights from her extensive research on sustained nonprofit collaborations, highlighting case studies, challenges, and the transformative potential of centering community needs.Nonprofit Mergers, Partnerships, and Asset Transfers – The Highlights:Understanding different types of nonprofit collaborations.How nonprofit asset transfers can reshape organizational culture.Tips for smaller nonprofits to engage in strategic partnerships.Common pitfalls to avoid in nonprofit mergers and collaborations.Real-world examples of collaborations boosting revenue and mission alignment.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and donor engagement strategies that work! We're here to eliminate nonprofit burnout and boost your donations!About Michelle Shumate:Michelle is the founding director of the Network for Nonprofit and Social Impact (NNSI) at Northwestern University. NNSI is dedicated to answering the question: How can nonprofit networks be rewired for maximum social impact? She offers workshops, consulting, and coaching through the Social Impact Network Consulting.Don’t forget to become a supporter of our show!Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
Jun 25, 2024 • 32min
Building Meaningful Nonprofit Community Engagement with Ashley Alaniz-Moyer
Struggling to connect with your service users and donors in a meaningful way? On this episode of Small Nonprofit, Ashley Alaniz-Moyer, Executive Director of the Hispanic Scholarship Consortium and co-founder of Refuerzo Collaborative, shares her insights on refreshing your approach to community engagement. Ashley and Maria discuss innovative ways to build community, reimagine nonprofit events, and foster meaningful engagement among board members, donors, and volunteers.Meaningful Nonprofit Community Engagement – The Highlights:Strategies for hosting engaging nonprofit events that build community.How to create a sense of belonging among volunteers and attendees.Using innovative methods like multi-step programming to increase retention.Tips for fostering community within nonprofit boards.Real-world examples of how creative events can deepen impact and connection.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and donor engagement strategies that work! We're here to eliminate nonprofit burnout and boost your donations!About Ashley Alaniz-Moyer:Ashley has over 15 years of experience working in nonprofits with roles focused in operations, fundraising, marketing, communications, and events. Ashley believes in combining communication and collaboration for maximum impact. She has successfully planned major events that have launched regional education movements. She has led organizations through rebranding efforts and strategic planning processes. Her passion for community building shines through as she shares stories and examples of successful engagement strategies. Links and Resources: Hispanic Scholarship Consortium Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hispanic-scholarship-consortium Hispanic Scholarship Consortium Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram - @hispanicscholarHispanic Scholarship Consortium Website - hispanicscholar.orgRefuerzo Collaborative Instagram & Facebook - @refuerzocollaborativeRefuerzo Collaborative Website - refuerzocollaborative.comConnect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newWatch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/2Qqv_oDwSqA Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
Jun 18, 2024 • 45min
Preventing Nonprofit Burnout & Finding Your "Sit-in-The-Sun" Moments with Kishshana Palmer
Are you constantly exhausted, overwhelmed, and struggling to find the motivation to keep going? In this episode of Small Nonprofit, Maria Rio is joined by the inspiring Kashana Palmer, CEO of Management Co, to explore the importance of rest, humanity, and self-awareness in nonprofit leadership. Together, they discuss how rest and intentionality can transform personal and organizational well-being.This episode is a must-listen for any nonprofit leader who wants to break free from the cycle of burnout and create a more sustainable, fulfilling career. Preventing Nonprofit Burnout – The Highlights:Why rest and self-care are essential for effective nonprofit leadership.The dangers of “martyrdom” in nonprofit work and how to break free.Simple strategies to bring humanity into the nonprofit workplace culture.Practical tips for finding your "sit in the sun" moment.How nonprofit leaders can model healthy behaviors for their staff.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and donor engagement strategies that work! We're here to eliminate nonprofit burnout and boost your donations!About Kishshana Palmer:With 20+ years as a C-Suite executive turned consultant and coach, Kishshana helps organizations down the pathway to success, sustainability, and profitability. She uses her skills and extensive expertise in strategy, raising capital, and team management to review what you’ve done, share what you should be doing, and help you or your organization readjust its course to actualize goals.Links and Resources: Connect with Kishshana Palmer on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kishshanapalmer/Check out the website: https://www.managemint.co/The Sticky Teams on-demand training: https://kishshana-co-inc.ck.page/6f9565b1c6 Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newWatch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/UwHH4L2AIT8 Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
Jun 11, 2024 • 37min
Generational Perspectives on Nonprofit Boards, Fundraising, and Events with Suzy Wilcox & Martha Schwieters
Curious about balancing experience and fresh ideas on your nonprofit board? Or seeking ways to keep fundraising events engaging in the digital age? In this special Mother’s Day episode of Small Nonprofit, Maria Rio is joined by Suzanne Wilcox, Director of Developmental Fundraising at Evergreen, and her mother, Martha Schwieters. Together, they share their personal and professional experiences with philanthropy, nonprofit boards, and fundraising strategies across generations.Generational Perspectives on Nonprofit Boards, Fundraising, and Events – The Highlights:Susie and Martha’s journeys into nonprofit leadership.Board diversity as a crucial key for nonprofit success.How generational perspectives influence board participation and fundraising.The pros and cons of modern fundraising events and digital elements.Strategies for building community through inclusivity and feedback.Insights on balancing mission alignment with ambitious campaigns.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and nonprofit storytelling strategies!About Suzanne Wilcox:Suzzane is a Fund Development and Strategic Planning Leader. Through her work at several charitable organizations, a cultural sponsorship agency, and as an industry consultant, she has a deep understanding of non-profit organizations while also being comfortable in a corporate setting. Her work includes fundraising, writing proposals, plans and reports, research projects, business and marketing planning, and feasibility studies.Links and Resources: Connect with Suzy Wilcox on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzanne-wilcox2019/?originalSubdomain=caCheck out the Evergreen website: https://www.evergreen.ca/ Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newWatch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/3jYFMOpeRdI Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
May 28, 2024 • 34min
How Nonprofits Can Attract, Retain & Support Their TOP Fundraisers with Laura Vitelli
Are you constantly losing your best fundraisers? Join Maria Rio and Laura Vitelli, co-founder of Staiger, Vitelli & Associates, as they share actionable insights on how nonprofits can attract, retain, and support their top fundraisers. Laura highlights the challenges fundraisers face, the importance of value alignment, and how to foster a supportive culture that retains top talent. This episode dives deep into boundaries, nonprofit leadership accountability, and strategies to prevent nonprofit burnout, offering practical tips to empower fundraisers and strengthen organizational success.Retaining & Supporting Nonprofit Fundraisers – The Highlights:Why fundraisers leave: Exploring burnout, unrealistic goals, and lack of value alignment.How to foster a supportive, human-centered workplace culture.The role of nonprofit leadership in creating accountability and setting boundaries.Practical steps to attract, retain, and empower fundraisers.The growing need for values-driven fundraising and donor relationships.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and nonprofit storytelling strategies!About Laura Vitelli:Laura Vitelli is a seasoned fundraiser with over 30 years of experience and co-founder of Staiger, VITELLI & Associates. Laura and her business partner Sarah Staiger specialize in helping nonprofits create sustainable fundraising systems through value-based strategies. Together, they provide coaching, training, and strategic planning support to small and mid-sized organizations. Links and Resources: Connect with Laura Vitelli on Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/laura-vitelliCheck out the Website: https://www.staigervitelli.com/Director of Development Questions Free Download: https://www.staigervitelli.com/dod Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newWatch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/rv7hdVLFDy4 Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
May 21, 2024 • 30min
Unionizing Nonprofits: Balancing Worker Rights & Organizational Values with Christina Rousseau
Can you support your cause AND prioritize worker's rights? Nonprofit workplaces often come with an expectation of self-sacrifice. Staff are expected to work long hours, accept below-market pay, and tolerate unfair conditions – all in service of the mission. But what if there's a better way?Join Maria Rio and Christina Rousseau, a labor organizer and union advocate, to explore the nuanced process of unionizing in the nonprofit sector. Christina shares her firsthand experiences—from organizing her workplace to working within unions—and dives into how unions can balance worker rights with organizational goals. This episode covers key aspects of collective bargaining, power dynamics, and how nonprofits can align union practices with values like equity and community-centric fundraising. Gain actionable insights on protecting workers’ rights, negotiating collective agreements, and navigating the complexities of leadership in unionized nonprofits.Unionizing Nonprofits: Balancing Worker Rights & Organizational Values — The Highlights:Understanding the role of unions in nonprofit organizations.Common challenges and misconceptions about unionization in the nonprofit sector.Balancing equity and values with standardized union practices.Steps for starting a unionization process in your nonprofit.Practical advice for managers and employees navigating unionization.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and nonprofit storytelling strategies!About Christina Rousseau:Having led a successful unionization effort in her former nonprofit role and now working as a union representative, Christina offers a unique 360-degree view of the possibilities and challenges unions bring to the nonprofit sector. Links and Resources: Connect with Christina Rousseau on Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/christina-rousseauCheck out the Website: https://psacunion.ca/ Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newWatch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/krjZ871CUooLiked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
May 14, 2024 • 44min
Nonprofit Governance Challenges & Solutions: Bold Nonprofit Leadership & Sector Innovation with Nicole Gagliardi
Does your nonprofit seem to be just scraping by even though everyone is working harder than ever? It's not just your organization. The nonprofit sector is in crisis, facing issues like shrinking revenue, chronic underfunding, staffing struggles, and increasing demands from the community. Join Maria Rio and Nicole Gagliardi, a nonprofit governance consultant with nearly 20 years of experience, as they discuss the challenges and opportunities within nonprofit governance today. Nicole shares her insights into how nonprofit leadership structures can hinder or help, trends impacting the sector, and how nonprofits can move towards innovative, community-centric governance. This episode explores bold leadership strategies, addressing board challenges, and building capacity for long-term impact.Nonprofit Governance Challenges & Solutions — The Highlights:How nonprofit governance structures impact bold leadership.Addressing the common struggles of nonprofit boards and staff.Trends threatening the nonprofit sector and solutions to adapt.Practical steps for nonprofit organizations to innovate governance models.Why collaborative networks and resource sharing are key for the sector.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and nonprofit storytelling strategies!About Nicole Gagliardi:Nicole helps nonprofit leaders build stronger governance structures, develop effective impact strategies, and enhance organizational capacity. Her goal is to empower organizations to advance their core purpose, successfully and sustainably, even in challenging times. With over 18 years of experience working in and alongside nonprofits, Nicole offers a sober view of the sector's challenges and provides actionable insights on how organizations can start adapting. Links and Resources: Connect with Nicole Gagliardi on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolegagliardi1/Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newWatch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/ujVXfd7qfmM Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
