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 7, 2024 • 40min
Creating Inclusive Workplaces: DEI Strategies for Small Nonprofits with Jade Pichette
Does your nonprofit talk a good game about diversity and inclusion, but the action never seems to follow? Maybe you've been part of mandatory trainings that left you asking, "Okay, but now what??" Join Maria Rio and Jade Pichette, Director of Programs at Pride at Work Canada, as they explore how organizations can implement effective DEI strategies to foster inclusive workplace cultures. With years of experience in nonprofit leadership, Jade shares actionable insights on how to support marginalized communities, repair harm, and create spaces where all employees can thrive. This episode dives deep into the challenges and opportunities for nonprofits to lead with inclusion and equity.Creating Inclusive Workplaces: DEI Strategies for Small Nonprofits — The Highlights:How small nonprofits can implement DEI strategies effectively.The importance of inclusive culture and leadership in nonprofits.Practical examples of inclusive practices like leadership chats and accessibility planning.How organizations can repair harm and prioritize equity.The role of inclusion councils and action plans in fostering cultural change.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and nonprofit storytelling strategies!About Jade Pichette:Jade (they/them) is an inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA!) professional based in Tkarón:to/Toronto. Currently, Jade serves as the Director of Programs at Pride at Work Canada, where they work with over 250 large employers across Canada around gender expression, gender identity, and sexual orientation inclusion. Previously, Jade served as the Volunteer and Community Outreach Coordinator at the ArQuives, the Education Programs Coordinator at Kind Space, and an independent inclusion consultant. Links and Resources: Connect with Jade Pichette on Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/jadepichette and Website: jadepichette.comLearn more about Pride at Work Canada: https://prideatwork.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/Byz5mGyk0LY Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
Apr 30, 2024 • 41min
Nonprofit Leadership: Balancing Confidence & Doubt + Own Your Influence with Maryanne Dersch
Feel like you're constantly chasing, juggling, and maybe even losing ground? Join Maria Rio and communication expert Maryanne Dersch, founder of Courageous Communication, as they discuss how nonprofits can master the art of influence, release fear, and embrace bold communication strategies. Maryanne shares how organizations can stand in their values, build meaningful relationships, and confidently handle criticism while fostering genuine connections. This episode is packed with actionable insights on how nonprofits can effectively communicate, lead, and make an impact without compromising their authenticity.Balancing Confidence And Doubt in Nonprofit Leadership — The Highlights:How to release fear and embrace bold communication strategies.Why criticism and doubt are essential for the growth of your nonprofit.The power of standing in your values and letting go of outcomes.Practical tips for influencing donors and board members.How to foster authentic connections through listening and empowered choice.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and nonprofit storytelling strategies! About Maryanne Dersch:Maryanne specializes in helping nonprofit organizations easily increase their influence and connect with new donors so they can raise more money without feeling rejected, ineffective or pushy. She has spent almost 30 years working in the nonprofit world helping organizations communicate more effectively internally and externally. From those experiences she authored "Courageous Communication: Why codependence is making your nonprofit brand boring and what to do about it."Resources & Links:Don’t forget to become a supporter of our show!Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/1-_aVugy33Y Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
Apr 23, 2024 • 36min
700K Growth: Building Inclusive Cultures for Fundraising Success with Tammy Ebuen
What if everyone in you nonprofit was a fundraiser? Join Maria Rio as she chats with Tammy Ebuen, Senior Director of Development at Visions of Science, about creating a shared fundraising culture and engaging program staff in fundraising campaigns. Tammy shares her personal journey from HR admin to fundraising leadership and discusses the impact of authentic representation -- highlighting how inclusive work environments lead to more successful fundraising. This episode dives into the power of psychological safety, community-based leadership, and fostering a shared fundraising culture across teams.Building Inclusive Cultures for Fundraising Success — The Highlights:The importance of psychological safety and authentic representation in nonprofits.How inclusive cultures empower fundraisers and enhance donor engagement.Tammy’s unique career journey and how it shaped her fundraising philosophy.Practical tips on creating a shared fundraising culture and engaging program staff.How fostering belonging translates to staff retention and 700K growth.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and nonprofit storytelling strategies!About Tammy Ebuen:Tammy is a savvy, outcomes-focused fundraising generalist with over a decade of professional nonprofit leadership experience. She brings a background in fundraising, human resources, health, education, gender, and social justice within both community-based and international development organizations. Links and Resources:Don’t forget to become a supporter of our show!Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/g0SOACjg-lQ Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
Apr 16, 2024 • 45min
Monthly Giving Insights: Building Loyal Donor Communities with Tim Sarrantonio
Think you know how donors behave? Think again! Join Maria and Tim Sarrantonio, Director of Corporate Brand at Neon One, as they explore the realities (and myths) of monthly giving and donor retention. They talk about the psychology behind giving and Tim shares insights from a five-year analysis of donor data, revealing that recurring donors give nearly $1,000 annually -- with 50% contributing additional gifts. Learn how to design a recurring giving program that builds strong donor relationships and enhances your nonprofit’s sustainability.Monthly Giving Insights – The Highlights:Key findings from Neon One’s five-year donor analysis.50% of recurring donors contribute additional gifts annually.How to design impactful monthly giving programs for small nonprofits.The role of ethical AI in donor engagement.Why prioritizing people over money strengthens donor communities.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and nonprofit storytelling strategies!About Tim Sarrantonio:Tim Sarrantonio is a Nonprofit Ecosystems Theorist studying the intersection of technology, human behavior, and organizational structures in modern giving. As chair of the Fundraising Effectiveness Project and through his work at Neon One, he has helped shape how thousands of nonprofits approach their mission. A speaker at AFPICON, NTC, and TEDx, Tim holds a Certificate in Philanthropic Psychology from the Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy. He lives in Niskayuna with his wife and three daughters, finding inspiration in the Adirondacks.Links and Resources: Email Report's digital reader: https://neonone.com/resources/nonprofit-email-report/report-reader/?section=1-1Recurring Giving Report: https://neonone.com/resources/recurring-giving-report/?ref=mainNav Connect with Tim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timsarrantonio/ Website: https://neonone.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/RidjdI1A-NM Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
Apr 9, 2024 • 36min
Nonprofit Mentorship: Supporting Fundraisers of Color with Marisa DeSalles
Why are fundraisers of color leaving the sector? Join Maria and Marissa as they explore the vital role of mentorship in supporting fundraisers of color in the nonprofit sector. Marissa, a California-based mentor and facilitator, shares her experience running a cohort for BIPOC fundraisers and leaders. She is uniquely positioned to provide key insights on the state of the sector, its treatment of racialized leaders, and the exodus of fundraisers. Racialized leaders do not have the same access to wealth, connections, or power as white leaders. However, like all EDs, they feel the entire mission's weight resting solely on their shoulders. We'll unpack how this impacts the sector, and most importantly, what we can do about it.Nonprofit Mentorship: Supporting Fundraisers of Color – The Highlights:The "Black Excellence" trap.The importance of mentorship in empowering fundraisers of color.Key challenges faced by racialized fundraisers, including tone policing and career barriers.Unpacking trauma and tending to ourselves.How creating safe spaces for sharing stories can support nonprofit professionals.The impact of systemic racism in fundraising and nonprofit leadership.Practical advice for finding and being a mentor in the nonprofit 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 Marisa DeSalles:Marisa is a faculty member with Impact Foundry, assisting as a Certified Sustainable coach, presenting a monthly series of educational workshops and is the featured speaker, Emcee and host for the Impact Foundry’s 5th annual What IF conference. She also serves on the global transition team for Community-Centric Fundraising, a burgeoning movement of nonprofit fundraising professionals working to improve fundraising through a lens of equity. She volunteers her time with Sacramento Community Land Trust, a cohort of Big Day of Giving mentees and dozens of other organizations, mentoring young and newly emerging fundraisers.Links and Resources: “12 Years a Fly in the Milk”: https://communitycentricfundraising.org/2020/07/11/12-years-a-fly-in-the-milk/Collecting Courage: https://www.collectingcourage.org/Dean Article - https://archive.is/lYjUUGiving Black Conference - https://www.givingblack.ca/copy-of-giving-black-conference-2023Connect with Marissa DeSalles on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisa-desalles/Learn more about Good Tilth Consulting: https://www.goodtilthconsulting.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/Nw4LPpPOtS4 Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
Apr 2, 2024 • 39min
Community-Centric Fundraising: 30% Revenue Increase in ONE Year with Madeline Taylor
Madeline Taylor, Development Manager at Out On Screen and a passionate community builder, discusses innovative fundraising strategies tailored to the queer community. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity, showcasing events like drag shows that resonate with donors. The conversation also touches on the critical role of representation within organizations, and how relationship-first fundraising fosters deep connections. Madeline highlights the power of storytelling and community engagement, truly reflecting the vibrant spirit of those involved.
Mar 19, 2024 • 45min
The Nonprofit Sector’s Struggle with Groupthink, Tokenism, and Performative Allyship with Liz LeClair
Ready to rethink nonprofit leadership and accountability? Scandals, harmful practices, and image-obsessed leaders plague our sector, but it doesn't have to be this way. Join host Maria Rio and Liz LeClair -- an intersectional feminist, fundraiser, and advocate -- as they discuss accountability, equity, and systemic challenges in the nonprofit sector. Liz shares insights into the sector’s struggle with groupthink, tokenism, and performative allyship while highlighting the importance of meaningful leadership practices. This episode might leave you uncomfortable – and that's the point. But it will also provide actionable steps nonprofits can take to prioritize diversity, inclusion, and transparency in their governance and operations.The Nonprofit Sector’s Struggle with Groupthink, Tokenism, and Performative Allyship – The Highlights:The importance of listening to marginalized voices in the nonprofit sector.How groupthink and lack of accountability harm nonprofit organizations.Tackling systemic racism and tokenism in board governance.Practical steps to integrate equity and inclusion into your organization's culture.Why accountability starts with leadership.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and nonprofit storytelling strategies!About Liz LeClair:Liz LeClair brings 20 years of experience to her role as a co-founder and partner of Sargasso Philanthropic CIC. She's a long-standing member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and the past chair of the AFP Women's Impact Initiative (WII), a board member of the African American Development Officer Network (AADO), and a former member on the board of Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) International. In 2019, Liz published an op-ed with CBC on rampant issue of sexual harassment in the non-profit sector, putting a face to the issue. In the fall of 2019 she helped co-found the National Day of Conversation to highlight the issue of sexualized violence in fundraising. Liz is committed to speaking up about the challenges facing women and marginalized individuals in the non-profit sector.Links and Resources: Website: https://www.sargassophilanthropic.ca/ Connect with Liz on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-leclair/ 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/eVCH1_lgviQ Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
Mar 12, 2024 • 32min
Peer-to-Peer Fundraising Simplified with Tess Conrad
What if you could turn your biggest supporters into top-performing fundraisers? Discover the untapped power of peer-to-peer fundraising with Tess Conrad, founder of Full Potential Fundraising. Tess breaks down how nonprofits, big and small, can engage their supporters to become ambassadors for their cause. From setting realistic goals to crafting effective toolkits and engaging donors, Tess shares actionable insights to help your organization leverage peer-to-peer campaigns for maximum impact.Peer-to-Peer Fundraising Simplified – The Highlights:How to get started with peer-to-peer fundraising, even if you're a small nonprofit.Tips for setting achievable goals and recruiting fundraisers.The importance of donor stewardship and retention in peer-to-peer campaigns.Creative ideas for unique fundraising events and challenges.How to identify your top supporters and turn them into fundraisers.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and nonprofit storytelling strategies!About Tess Conrad:Tess founded Full Potential Fundraising to help charities build a foundation of effective fundraising that drives results - without compromising their values. Too often in her career in the non-profit sector she witnessed charities waste time on ineffective fundraising strategies. The sector's siloed departments, lack of systems, and high-effort-low-results-fundraising keep amazing organizations from reaching their potential and Tess is on a mission to change that.Links and Resources: Connect with Tess on Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/tess-conrad-cfreLearn more about Full Potential Fundraising: https://www.fullpotentialfundraising.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/GURy-BbU7ig Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
Mar 5, 2024 • 41min
Why Ethical Storytelling Will Transform Your Nonprofit Marketing Strategy with Diana Heinrich
Why do "big nonprofits" use those emotional, tear-jerking stories? Well, today, we are sharing a much better (and more ethical) way to inspire donors. Discover how ethical storytelling can transform your nonprofit's marketing strategy and deepen donor relationships. Diana Farias Heinrich, a marketing and communications expert, shares her insights into putting service users’ voices first while creating powerful, transformative stories. Learn about informed consent, bridging the gap between program staff and fundraisers, and the dos and don'ts of nonprofit storytelling.Why Ethical Storytelling Will Transform Your Nonprofit Marketing Strategy – The Highlights:The importance of informed consent and agency in nonprofit storytelling.Bridging power dynamics between nonprofits and service users.How ethical storytelling enhances donor retention and engagement.Practical steps for creating human-centered narratives.The role of program and development staff in ethical storytelling.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and nonprofit storytelling strategies!About Diana Heinrich:Diana is the CEO of Habrá Marketing. She's passionate about helping nonprofits share their work in ways that empower both clients and donors. With certifications in DEI and as an Advocate for Survivors of Domestic Violence, she brings essential expertise to our sector. We talk about the long-term harm of those guilt-driven appeals, how to build trust with clients, and the transformative power of letting people share their stories on their own terms.Links and Resources: Connect with Diana on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianafariasheinrich/Cultivating ethical narratives workshop: https://witty-musician-3516.ck.page/products/cultivating-ethical-narrativesYour Guide to Informed Consent Conversations: https://informedconsentconversation.habramarketing.com/Learn more about Habra Marketing: https://habramarketing.com/Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/10 Dignified questions guide: https://www.gofurthertogether.ca/sign-upSupport the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newWatch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/RKLqPgUfzgE Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
Feb 13, 2024 • 32min
Leading Human First: Supporting Parental Leave in Nonprofits with Lacey Kempinski
Are you torn between supporting your team's work-life balance and striving to hit those all-important milestones? Balancing parental leave and nonprofit work is no small feat, but Lacey Kempinski, founder and CEO of Balanced Good, is leading the charge in creating supportive workplace practices. In this episode, Maria and Lacey discuss the challenges faced by working parents in the nonprofit sector and actionable steps organizations can take to better support employees, retain talent, and decrease turnover. Lacey shares her journey as a working parent, insights on parental leave policies, and the importance of leading human-first in nonprofits.Supporting Parental Leave in Nonprofits - The Highlights:How nonprofits can support working parents and retain talent.The importance of parental leave policies and workplace flexibility.Strategies for creating a supportive and inclusive work environment.Practical recommendations for balancing employee needs and organizational goals.Why treating employees holistically leads to better retention and engagement.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable insights on nonprofit leadership, ethical fundraising, and employee engagement strategies!About Lacey Kempinski:Lacey Kempinski is the CEO and Founder of Balanced Good. Balanced Good provides parental leave coverage – from the day-to-day hands-on work to big picture transition planning. Balanced Good believes that a supported transition to parenthood will benefit both our sector and the parents working in it. Lacey has a big vision, she wants parental leave to become a celebrated life milestone, not a feared employment gap.Links and Resources: Connect with Lacey Kempinski on Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/laceykempinski Learn more about Balanced Good: balancedgood.comBalanced Good LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/balanced-good/ Mat Leave Workbook: https://icy-base-20781.myflodesk.com/1986644d-75ba-476f-a37f-788cd7e5d48dVIP Day Waitlist: https://icy-base-20781.myflodesk.com/vipwaitlistConnect 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/tNxjzz1q6Fo Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
