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
Jun 20, 2023 • 29min
Government Relations Foundations with Jesse Clarke
Often we take government funding for granted. Or, we treat it like an impenetrable black box that’s a mystery so we write our applications and cross our fingers. Today, we’re joined by Jesse Clarke, CEO of JN Clarke Consulting who shares insider tips on how to form successful relationships with government partners to secure new funding, keep the existing funds rolling in, and have champions at the decision making table. Key Highlights: The parallels between donor and government relationsThe significance of government investment in the non-profit sectorStrategies to sustain and enhance funding from government sourcesHow to start influencing decisions and building influence with government fundersThe importance of relationships in dealing with government fundingNavigating through the bureaucratic systems for effective government relationsConnect with Jesse:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jnclarke/Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
Jun 13, 2023 • 30min
Communicating like a leader with Erica Barnhart
Do you ever find yourself questioning whether your message was clear or if you expressed your thoughts effectively? If so, this episode is for you. Tune in as Erica Barnhart, the CEO of Claxon, delves into the art of communication. Discover the significant impact of effective communication on both your personal and professional life, and learn how to inspire and mobilize the people around you.Key Highlights:The importance of effective communication in small organizationsUnderstanding your audiencesSelf-talk and its direct impact on your communicationWhat the Claxon method is and how to use it for optimizing communicationStrategies for effective communication with your team Connect with Erica: Podcast: Communicate for Good Website: claxon-communication.com. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericamillsbarnhart/Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
Jun 6, 2023 • 38min
Optimize your website with David Pisarek
Today's digital world demands an impactful online presence. In the era where a website is your business card and more, do you know how to leverage it for your small nonprofit organization? In this episode of the Small Nonprofit Podcast, David Pisarek, founder and CEO of Wow Digital, dive into the critical aspects of websites and digital marketing. Discover how your organization can improve its online presence, foster engagement, and attract more donations.Key Highlights: The role and importance of a website in the digital era.Strategies to drive visitors to your website and increase visibility.The importance of content and how to create a year-long content calendar.Understanding your audience's search behavior to better tailor your content.How to make your website more accessible to audienceFive essential elements to make your website effectiveConnect with David: Website: https://wowdigital.com/Free website audit: https://wowdigital.com/auditNonprofit Websites Done-For-You: https://mightynpo.com/Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
May 30, 2023 • 24min
Are you a hidden micromanager? with Erin Allgood
Have you ever encountered a micromanager in your professional life? That person who just can't resist scrutinizing every little detail and checking in with you constantly? It's not only frustrating but can also hinder productivity and growth. On today’s episode I’m joined by Erin Allgood, a social impact strategist from Allgood Strategies, to discuss the detrimental effects of micromanagement in organizations. She delves into the reasons behind micromanaging tendencies, the impact of remote work, and explore effective strategies for delegating tasks. So, whether you're a leader looking to break free from micromanagement or an employee seeking autonomy, this episode is packed with valuable insights.Key Highlights: The extremes of management stylesThe rise of micromanagement and it’s negative impact on organizationsDelegating tasks and building relationships with employeesFinding the root cause of micromanagement The role of empathy in addressing micromanagementConnect with Erin: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinallgood/Podcast: https://www.allgoodstrategies.com/rise-and-rouseLiked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
May 23, 2023 • 28min
Simple fundraising that works for small nonprofits with Sara Hoshooley
Sara Hoshooley, founder of Charity Shift, discusses unique fundraising opportunities for small nonprofits. Topics include personal donor connections, 15-minute check-in calls, dealing with rejections, positive donor communication, and the importance of not mimicking large organizational models.
May 16, 2023 • 19min
Strategic planning from the ground up with Carol Hamilton
Have you ever struggled with strategic planning? Do you find it challenging to bring people along in the process? In this episode of the Small Nonprofit Podcast, I talk with Carol Hamilton, Principal of Grace Social Sector Consulting, about the importance of strategic planning in today's changing world. Carol discusses how to involve all stakeholders in the process, what to do when things get off track, and how to integrate the plan into your day-to-day practices.Key Highlights: The benefits of conducting an intentional strategic planning process.How to identify the important stakeholders in your organization.The optimal ways to engage people in the planning process.How to manage conflict during the process.How to integrate the strategic plan into your day-to-day practices.Connect with Carol: Website: http://www.gracesocialsector.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carol-hamilton-0052b71/Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
May 9, 2023 • 25min
Asking for unrestricted funds with Aimee Lindenberger
Today 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/UnrestrictedFundsBonusLiked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
May 2, 2023 • 24min
Moving people with words with Jordana Merkin
Are 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)Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
Apr 25, 2023 • 24min
Can we agree to stop exploiting our staff? with Nicole Gagliardi
Are 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/Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
Apr 18, 2023 • 23min
Stop gatekeeping nonprofit knowledge with Tiffany Allen
Our 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/bossonabLiked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show
