Fundraising

“It’s Annual Report time!”

(Cue the collective groan. I hear you.)

But before you reach for your third cup of coffee or consider hiding under your desk, let’s reframe this. Your Annual Report is not a dreaded task. It is not just something you “have to do.” It is one of your most underutilized tools for showing impact, building trust, and rallying support.

When done well, an Annual Report is a living, breathing celebration of your organization’s mission in action. It is a storybook of impact, a financial report card, and a love letter to your supporters, all rolled into one. And yes, it can be enjoyable to create. No, really.

Let’s talk about how to make one that doesn’t just sit in someone’s downloads folder.

Know Your People

Before you even think about page one, ask yourself: Who is this for? If your answer is “everyone,” let’s take a step back.

Your Annual Report should feel like a one-on-one conversation with the people who matter most to your mission. That includes major donors, monthly supporters, foundation funders, corporate partners, board members, and the people you serve.

Donors want to see how their dollars made a difference. Funders want outcomes and impact. Corporate partners want to see their logo and their value. Volunteers want to see themselves reflected in your wins. And your community? They want to feel proud.

When you know who you’re talking to, you can tailor your tone, your visuals, and your stories to meet them where they are. That’s how you build a report that gets read, remembered, and shared.

Let Your Brand Do the Talking

The moment someone sees your Annual Report, they should know it came from you.

Your logo, your colors, your fonts...this is your visual handshake. Make it consistent with everything else you put out into the world. If you’ve ever walked into a room and immediately spotted someone who felt like “your people,” that’s what your brand should do.

Your report should say, “This is us. This is what we stand for.” From the cover design to the thank-you page, make it unmistakably yours.

Stories That Stick

Now we get to the heart of it.

The most powerful part of your Annual Report is not the financials. It’s not the pie charts or the bulleted lists. It’s the stories.

Tell a story about a family whose life changed because of your food program. Let a volunteer share, in their own words, why they keep showing up. Use names and faces (with permission). Get specific. Because specificity builds trust.

If you say you distributed 12,000 pounds of food, great. But if you say that thanks to a donor-funded fundraiser, you restocked a nearly empty pantry just in time for the holidays, and show the shelves before and after? That’s gold.

Avoid industry jargon and keep the acronyms to a bare minimum. Speak human. Make it clear, warm, and relatable. And before you call it done, have someone outside your organization read it. Ask: Does this reflect the community we serve? Does it sound like us?

Show Me the Money

Your supporters made an investment. They want to know it paid off.

You do not need to bury them in spreadsheets, but you do need to be transparent. Share real numbers in ways that are easy to understand. Include a simple breakdown of revenue and expenses, and maybe a pie chart or two for the visual learners among us.

For those who want more detail (looking at you, funders and accountants), include a QR code that links to your full audited financials online.

And do not forget your call-to-action. Make it bold, clear, and easy. Add a donation link. Mention monthly giving. Offer a phone number for anyone who prefers to talk it out. Your Annual Report is not just a wrap-up, it’s a runway to what’s next.

Embrace the Digital Age

Remember those old-school printed reports that felt like a phone book married a tax return? Let’s leave those in the archives.

Today, your Annual Report can be a sleek, clickable, digital experience. Host it on your website. Share it on social. Email it to your list. That said, keep a few printed copies on hand. Some folks still love to hold something in their hands, and that’s okay too.

And please, I beg you, do not settle for a double-sided Executive Summary and call it a day. Your Annual Report should be a living asset—something you proudly send to funders, hand to a new board member, or pull up during a donor meeting.

Final Thoughts

Yes, I know it’s called an Annual Report, but think of it as a love letter to your mission and everyone who makes it possible.

Make it beautiful. Make it clear. Make it something your supporters look forward to.

Need a little more help? I’ve got you. Download “It’s Annual Report Time!”—your go-to guide for creating a report that informs, inspires, and actually gets read.

Let’s raise the bar on Annual Reports and show the world just how powerful, passionate, and high-impact your nonprofit truly is.

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So, you pulled off a fundraising event. The lights were perfect, the speeches were heartfelt, and nobody (that you know of) cried into the dessert. Success, right?

Not so fast.

The real magic of a fundraising event happens after everyone goes home.
If you want your donors, volunteers, and sponsors to stay excited about your mission, you need a smart follow-up plan, not just a “see you next year” wave.

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Here's exactly what you need to do:

1. Say Thank You Like You Mean It

Thanking people isn’t just good manners. It’s your first (and best) shot at building real, lasting loyalty.

• Send your thank-you’s fast. Aim for 48 hours – a week max. Anything longer feels like you forgot (because honestly, you probably did).
• Make it personal. Skip the “Dear Supporter” nonsense. Mention their gift, their attendance, their whatever – make it about them.
• Mix it up. Use emails, social media shoutouts, handwritten notes, phone calls. No one ever said, “Wow, they thanked me too much.”

Pro Tip: Tell them what their support made possible. Stories beat statistics every day of the week.

2. Share the Highlights and the Heart

Your event was awesome. Now prove it.

• Show the numbers. How much was raised? How many lives will be changed? Brag — humbly, but brag.
• Share the faces. Photos and videos bring your success to life. Post them on social, in newsletters, and splash them across your website.
• Tell the stories. Show exactly how donations will be used and who will benefit. (Hint: This makes your donors the heroes of the story — and everyone wants to be the hero.)

Bottom line: Don’t just share what happened — share why it mattered.

3. Be Transparent About the Money

Money talk makes people squirm. Do it anyway.

• Break it down. Show supporters where the money is going in simple, clear language.
• Connect the dots. “Your $100 is helping send five kids to summer camp” beats “We raised $10,000 for youth services.”
• Own it. Transparency = trust. And trust = donors sticking around for the long haul.

Hard truth: If you don't tell them how the money’s spent, they'll make up their own stories (and those stories usually aren’t pretty).

4. Ask for Feedback (and Actually Listen)

You can think your event was perfect...or you can know what actually worked (and what bombed).

• Send a short survey. Keep it quick and easy – think five questions, tops.
• Ask smart questions. What did they love? What would they change? What would make them bring a friend next time?
• Offer a little carrot. A small prize drawing for survey responders can help boost your feedback numbers.

Remember: Feedback isn’t criticism — it’s free advice from people you want to impress.

5. Recognize Your All-Stars

Everyone loves a little extra love.

• Shout them out. Post thank-you's on your website and socials for major donors, sponsors, and volunteers.
• Get creative. Awards, custom gifts, spotlight posts ...find ways to make your MVPs feel seen.
• Throw a mini-party. Host a small appreciation event (even virtual!) to celebrate your rockstars.

Key tip: When people feel valued, they stick around. When they feel overlooked, they ghost you faster than a bad first date.

6. Set the Stage for What's Next

Don't let the conversation die just because the balloons did.

• Create a communication calendar. Plan your next email, newsletter, social post now, not when you remember three months later.
• Stay visible. Regular updates about your mission’s progress keep supporters engaged and proud to be part of your journey.
• Plant seeds. Drop hints about future volunteer opportunities, events, or fundraising drives to keep excitement brewing.

Goal: Keep them thinking, “I’m so glad I’m part of this,” not “Wait, who are you again?”

The Ripple Effect of a Good Follow-Up

Skipping your follow-up after a fundraising event is like running a marathon and quitting five feet from the finish line.
A thoughtful, authentic follow-up keeps the energy alive, strengthens relationships, and sets you up for bigger and better wins down the road.

One great event can turn into a year of impact.
But only if you treat your follow-up like it matters ...because it absolutely does.

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Late last week, I picked up the phone to a familiar voice, a nonprofit leader I’ve worked with for years. But this call didn’t start with the usual hello. It started with panic. Frustration. Defeat. And a glimmer of hope, all rolled into one shaky sentence.

Their organization is currently owed three-quarters of a million dollars under a government contract. The work has been done. The reports have been submitted. But the money? Completely stalled. And from what they’re hearing, it may never come. These are funds promised before the 2024 election, and now, they’re evaporating.

Sound familiar?

If your nonprofit is watching funding dry up, contracts hang in limbo, and political winds blow in directions you never anticipated, you’re not alone. The ground has shifted for many of us. And while there’s no magic fix, there are practical, proactive steps you can take right now.

Let’s talk about it.

Step One: Name the Reality

We are in a moment of funding uncertainty. Period. Federal and state budgets are being reevaluated. Priorities are shifting. And organizations that rely on government support, especially those doing work in justice, equity and community health, are feeling the squeeze.

Your first step? Get clear. Get honest. Don’t sugarcoat what’s happening. Because you can’t plan your way out of a storm until you admit there’s thunder.

Key Questions for Nonprofit Leaders

If you’re navigating this mess, take a breath and ask yourself:

• What is our mission and what values do we refuse to compromise?
• How will these cuts impact our programs and people?
• Is our board ready to engage more deeply and advocate on our behalf?
• Have we talked with our top donors to bring them into the conversation?
• Can we back up our concerns with both data and story?

Not every nonprofit will respond the same way. Some may rally their communities with bold advocacy. Others may quietly shift messaging to preserve services. There’s no one right answer — but there is a right-for-you answer.

Messaging in the Middle of the Storm

As a person, my gut says, “Grab the megaphone. Let’s fight.”
As a nonprofit leader? I know it’s not that simple.

If your organization provides critical services like housing, mental health support, or domestic violence intervention, your mission is to keep those doors open, even if it means softening your language publicly while staying true to your values behind the scenes.

This isn’t selling out. It’s strategy. It’s survival. And it’s ok.

8 Practical Steps to Stay Steady Right Now

Whether you are riding the wave or building a raft, these tried-and-true strategies can help you stay grounded:

1. Center your mission.
Make sure every single piece of communication points back to why you exist.

2. Tell better stories.
Funders want to see outcomes. But they also want to feel them. Use real voices from the communities you serve.

3. Strengthen your marketing.
Now is not the time to go quiet. Use your website, social media, email and earned media to stay visible.

4. Show up on social.
Go beyond posting. Engage. Thank donors. Comment back. Share behind-the-scenes content. Be real.

5. Nurture your donors.
This is your moment to over communicate with the folks who already believe in you. Keep them close.

6. Ramp up fundraising.
Do not freeze. Test new appeals. Talk to lapsed donors. Run a mini campaign. Take action. Develop a nonprofit fundraising plan.

7. Diversify income.
Think corporate sponsors. Think monthly giving. Think earned revenue if it fits your model.

8. Keep your people aligned.
Make sure staff and board understand what’s happening and are rowing in the same direction. Have them undergo nonprofit board training if you must.

Take the Long View, Too

Once the immediate scramble is addressed, start looking ahead. This is not the last storm. So prepare now.

Create a crisis communications plan.
Know what you’ll say if another contract pauses or a funder pulls out.

Fix your online presence.
Make donating easy. Make your impact obvious. Make sure people know how to help.

Update your nonprofit directory profiles.
No more stale data on Candid or Charity Navigator. These platforms matter more than you think.

Get professional PR and messaging support.
When the world is loud, your message has to be smart, strong and clear. Invest in support if you can.

Re-evaluate your marketing budget.
Yes, even now. Visibility builds trust. Trust attracts support.

We’re All Feeling This

And it’s not just professional. It’s deeply personal.

For so many of us, our work is tied to our identity. So when funding is yanked, or priorities shift in ways that threaten the very heart of what we do, it hurts. It shakes us. It can feel like an attack on everything we’ve built , and everything we believe in.

So here’s your permission slip: feel it.
And then, rally. Not just for your organization. But for each other.

Pick up the phone when another nonprofit leader calls. Share what’s working. Offer your playbook. Be the kind of support you wish someone had been for you last week.

We’ll weather this storm like we always do...with purpose, persistence, and a little bit of nonprofit magic.

Need help building a response strategy or reshaping your messaging?
Success For Nonprofits is here. We’ve got tools, trainings, nonprofit development plans, and real talk to help you move forward. Reach out if you need us.

Let’s keep doing the work that matters. Together.

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Raise your hand if you’ve ever opened a blank Word doc to start a grant proposal and immediately decided to reorganize your sock drawer instead. We get it. Grant writing is one of the most necessary but mentally draining parts of nonprofit work.

Now AI is everywhere, promising to write your proposals faster than you can say “restricted funds.” So the question is not just can you use AI for nonprofit grant writing. The question is how do you use it well without losing your message, your mission, or your mind?

Let’s dig in.

What AI Can Actually Do for Grant Writers

AI is not a miracle. It cannot understand your community’s unique challenges or the heart behind your programs. But it can handle the stuff that bogs you down. Here's how smart nonprofits are using AI today:

• Writing first drafts of grant sections like mission statements, program descriptions, and community needs
• Summarizing long grant guidelines so you know what a funder really wants
• Brainstorming answers to repetitive application questions
• Editing for clarity, tone, and structure
• Rewriting content to fit a new grant with different word counts or formatting

If you have ever spent 90 minutes trying to find a more impressive way to say “we help people,” AI can help with that.

What AI Cannot Do

Let’s be clear. AI does not know your organization. It does not know what keeps your clients up at night. It does not know what makes your team special. That means AI cannot:

• Tell your impact story with any real emotion
• Build trust with a funder
• Strategically align your ask with a funder’s priorities
• Replace your judgment, your voice, or your nonprofit brain

So please do not let ChatGPT write and submit your grant proposal without you.

Using AI Well: A Success For Nonprofits Strategy

If you want to use AI the right way, here is your step-by-step:

1. Start with your real content
   Feed the tool your mission, past grant language, or program summaries. AI needs raw material. Give it something to work with.
2. Use it for structure or improvement
   Ask it to write a first draft or rewrite a section with a specific tone. For example, “Make this sound more persuasive” or “Cut this to 250 words.”
3. Layer in your voice and heart
   Always go back and revise. Add real stories, data, and insights that only you have.
4. Fact-check and personalize
   AI is confident and often wrong. Review everything before you hit submit.
5. Keep your funder in mind
   If it sounds like it could have come from anyone, it is not ready yet. Make sure it clearly speaks to that funder’s goals and values.

Our Take at Success For Nonprofits

We love tools that make nonprofit life easier. But we also know that people give to people. Funders invest in relationships, trust, and the real human work behind your mission. AI can save time. It can spark ideas. It can make a painful writing day a little smoother.

But AI will never replace your experience or your insight. That is your superpower!

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The headlines may change every hour, but your mission deserves a funding stream that doesn’t.

Between economic shifts, global challenges, and whatever curveball the news cycle throws next, it’s getting harder for nonprofits to plan ahead. Donors are pulled in a dozen directions. Funding sources are shifting. And your mission still needs to move forward.

So how do you keep your footing when everything else feels wobbly?

You build consistency. And one of the most powerful ways to do that is through monthly giving.

Monthly Giving Isn’t Flashy. It’s Foundational.

This isn’t about chasing trends. This is about stability. Monthly giving helps you create a reliable stream of support that keeps your work going, no matter what’s happening in the world.

It’s not just convenient for you. Donors love it too. Monthly donors are more committed, they give more over time, and they stay with you longer. It’s a win-win.

Why It Works

When you have a monthly giving program that runs like a well-oiled machine, you gain:

• Steady income you can actually count on
• A donor base that sticks with you year after year
• Less stress about hitting your goals in December
• More time to focus on impact instead of survival

It’s a strategy that reduces panic and increases planning. And that’s something every nonprofit needs more of right now.

How to Start Without Overhauling Everything

You don’t need a complicated rollout. You need a message that speaks to the moment. Something simple and heartfelt like:

“In times like these, dependable support means everything. Will you join our community of monthly donors and help us keep going strong?”

Make your donation form easy to use. Default to monthly giving. Create a thank-you flow that feels personal. And follow up regularly with quick updates about the impact those monthly gifts are making.

This Is About More Than Revenue

Yes, monthly giving helps your bottom line. But it also builds community. It brings people closer to your work. It gives donors a way to feel like they’re making a difference, even when the world feels uncertain.

And let’s face it. Consistency is comforting.

So if you’ve been putting off launching a monthly giving program, now is the time. Not because it’s urgent. But because it’s smart.

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A No-Fluff Guide to Grant Research That Won’t Make You Cry In Your Coffee

If you’ve worked in the nonprofit world for more than five minutes, you’ve no doubt heard someone’s great idea for funding: “Let’s just get a grant to pay for it!”

Sure, sounds easy enough… until the responsibility of finding that magical grant lands squarely in your lap.

Whether you’ve spent hours down the Google rabbit hole searching for funders or you’re staring at a blank screen wondering where to start, don’t worry, you’re not alone. The good news? You don’t need to be a pro researcher to find solid grant opportunities.

What you do need is a strategy, and a few tips on where to look. The goal isn’t to chase every dollar, it’s to find funders who actually want to support the kind of work your nonprofit does.

And that? That’s totally doable.

It might sound daunting, but with a few smart tips and tools, you’ll be uncovering potential funders faster, and with less frustration. Let’s dive into how to find the right grants without burning out.

Tip #1: Get Clear On What You Really Need (Before You Start Searching)

Before you jump into the world of grant research, take a step back and get clear on what you actually need funding for. Are you launching a new program? Expanding an existing service? Supporting work with a specific population, like youth or older adults?

Grants aren’t one-size-fits-all. Some fund programs, others fund capital projects, and many are targeted to specific issues or communities. That’s why it’s crucial to know your own goals before you start searching. Don’t just wing it. Write your needs down. Be specific.

Once you start exploring potential funders, check their eligibility requirements and funding priorities. Do they align with what you’re doing? If yes, great! Dig a little deeper into their application guidelines and make sure you can meet all the criteria.

One of the best ways to narrow your focus is to start small by targeting local funders. Tackling large government grants or national corporate requests can be overwhelming if you’re new to grant applications. Smaller local grants are often easier to achieve and less time-consuming, making them a smart place to get your foot in the door.

Local foundations and corporations often understand your community and its needs, and they may already know your nonprofit. Building relationships with these funders helps you establish a history of grant success, which can open doors to bigger opportunities later.

Getting clear on your needs will save you hours chasing the wrong leads and gives you a much better shot at finding the right match.

Tip #2: Work Smarter With Online Tools

Save yourself time by leaning on online tools to guide your grant search. Start with good old Google. Use specific keywords based on your goals and try the “advanced search” feature to narrow topics and limit your results even further.

Check free government sites like grants.gov and your city or state’s official pages. Grants.gov alone lists thousands of federal grants, many perfect for small nonprofits. Again, that search feature with key words will help narrow your search and save you from poring through thousands of opportunities.

See if your local library or nonprofit association partners offer free access to subscription-based databases like Foundation Directory Online, GrantStation, GrantWatch, Grant Gopher, or any of the many other paid databases that provide detailed information on funders. You can narrow by areas of interest, type of grant maker, types of support, geographic location, and other terms. Purchasing these databases may be expensive, so finding free access is a great way to get started.

Signing up for grant newsletters which provide ongoing lists of available grants is another great way to stay on top of current opportunities without hunting for them yourself.

And here’s a tip: don’t just stop at the basic search results. Go beyond the surface. Look at who’s funding nonprofits in your community and in your field. For example, if you’re a small arts group, check which local arts organizations are getting grants.

Community foundations are also great sources of support. They are often less competitive and really focused on local impact, so they’re worth a look.

Big retailers like Walmart also run local grant programs that fund neighborhood projects, another good place to explore.

Don’t forget about Google Ad Grants, either. If you qualify, Google will give you up to $10,000 a month in free search advertising. Think of the visibility boost that could bring without spending a dime!

Finally, pay attention to past deadlines and grant cycles. Many funders repeat similar deadlines every year, especially government programs. If you spot a good fit but missed this year’s deadline, mark your calendar and be ready to apply next time around.

Starting local and combining these tools with some thoughtful digging will help you find better matches faster, and set you up for success.

Tip #3: Keep Track – Don’t Let Leads Slip Away

Stay organized so you don’t lose valuable leads. Develop a system to track your research and follow-ups.

Here’s how:

• Log key info—record funder names, deadlines, requirements, and contact info.
• Use a spreadsheet—an Excel or Google Sheet works well for most organizations.
• Explore tools—consider grant tracking software if you want more features.
• Stay current—update your list regularly with new leads and status updates.
• Review often—revisit your list to prioritize strong matches and plan ahead.

A well-kept list can reveal more good opportunities than you expect.

The bottom line is that grant making is match making. It all starts with focused research, finding the funders whose goals align with yours and who are most likely to support your mission.

The key is having a clear strategy, knowing what you need, and targeting your efforts wisely. By following these steps, you’ll quickly identify the best funding matches for your nonprofit.

Then, when someone says, “Let’s get a grant for that new program,” you won’t have to lose your mind or cry in your coffee. You’ll already know where to go, and how to get that money.

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Ready to stop guessing and start winning grants? Download our free grant-writing checklist below and write your best proposal yet!

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Too many nonprofit leaders treat strategic planning like flossing, something they know they should do but somehow never get around to. The truth? A well-done strategic plan isn’t just a “nice to have.” It’s a powerhouse tool that can clarify your direction, fire up your team, and make fundraising a heck of a lot easier (and more successful).

Here are seven ways strategic planning can level-up your fundraising game, and how to get the most out of the process.

1. Prioritize What Actually Needs Funding

There’s nothing more chaotic than a fundraising team with no clear roadmap. You’ve got board members tossing out shiny new project ideas with zero budget, program staff lobbying for their own needs, and someone trying to pitch a “game-changing” new initiative that isn’t even real yet. Sound familiar?

A solid strategic developoment plan for nonprofits puts the brakes on this madness. It brings everyone together to co-create a shared vision and, more importantly, to prioritize what you’re raising money for and why. Once that’s clear, your fundraising team can stop chasing the shiny squirrels and start raising money with focus and confidence.

2. Design Programs Worth Funding

Donors are smart. They want to fund programs that deliver actual results, not just busywork in a pretty brochure. Strategic fundraising planning for nonpprofits forces you to step back and evaluate: Which programs are really moving the needle? Which are just...moving?

This process gives you the space to fine-tune or even overhaul your offerings so that everything you’re running aligns with your mission, delivers impact, and is fundraising-friendly. Strong programs = stronger case for support. Simple math.

3. Strengthen Operations That Support Fundraising

You can't raise major gifts on a foundation of chaos. If your database is a mess, your systems are duct-taped together, and no one knows where the latest donor report lives, you’re not set up for success.

Strategic planning shines a light on those internal operational gaps that are silently sabotaging your fundraising. It gives you the green light (and the plan!) to invest in infrastructure, like better donor management software, stronger reporting tools, and staff training, that makes fundraisers’ lives easier and donors more confident in your professionalism.

4. Get Your Board and Staff Aligned Around Fundraising

Fundraising is a team sport. If your development staff are working in a vacuum, you're leaving money on the table and probably burning them out.

A strong strategic planning process brings your board, staff, and leadership team into alignment around your mission, goals, and the role fundraising plays in achieving them. When everyone buys in, you can tap into your whole team for donor cultivation, outreach, and storytelling. Suddenly, it’s not just the development director asking for money, it’s a full-court press.

5. Cut Grant Writing and Pitch Time in Half

If you’ve ever found yourself rewriting the same mission paragraph for the 47th time, this one’s for you.

Strategic plans are gold mines when it comes to creating grant templates and donor pitch decks. Your vision, goals, and program strategy are all baked in saving your team hours of scrambling to piece things together from scattered documents and conflicting narratives. With a well-crafted plan, you can copy, paste, tweak, and hit send. Efficiency for the win.

6. Create a Culture of Accountability

We’ve all seen beautiful fundraising plans for nonprofits that go straight into a drawer and stay there until the next five-year cycle rolls around. That’s not the goal.

The real magic happens when strategic planning leads to clear, measurable goals and a developoment plan to actually track them. With an eye on implementation, your team knows what success looks like, how they’re progressing, and where they need to adjust. This kind of accountability is a gift for fundraisers. It gives them the data and confidence they need to report outcomes to funders and show that your nonprofit delivers.

7. Future-Proof Your Fundraising

Strategic planning isn’t just about fixing what’s broken today, it’s about setting your organization up to thrive tomorrow.

By scanning the landscape, exploring emerging trends, and thinking long-term, you’ll position your organization to stay ahead of the curve. Whether it’s diversifying revenue streams, experimenting with digital campaigns, or building a planned giving program, a strategic plan gives your fundraising team a roadmap for what’s next so they’re not just reacting to change but leading it.

Tips for Making Strategic Planning Count

Now that we’ve made the case, here are some quick tips to get the most out of your planning process:

• Focus on the process, not just the paper. The magic happens during the conversations, not in the final PDF.
• Invite fundraisers to the table. They bring critical insights on donor expectations, data realities, and revenue trends.
• Get perspectives from every level. Program staff, board members, volunteers, and even clients can help shape a more grounded, relevant plan.
• Be brave enough to kill your darlings. If something’s not working—even if you love it—it might be time to pivot.
• Plan for implementation. Build in checkpoints, align department goals, and make sure the plan actually gets used.

Strategic fundraising planning for nonprofits doesn’t have to be a dusty, painful process. Done right, it’s energizing, clarifying, and transformational, especially when it comes to fundraising. If you’re ready to raise more, stress less, and finally get everyone rowing in the same direction, this is the move. Your fundraisers will thank you. So will your bank account.

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Want more actionable strategies? Download the board diagnostics and development fundraising plan template below!

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Let’s be honest. A fundraising event without sponsors is like a cake without frosting—technically edible, but why would you want to? Sponsors bring the frosting, the sprinkles, and sometimes even the fancy little gold candles.

If you're in the nonprofit leadership space and you’re planning an event, corporate sponsors aren’t just nice to have—they’re essential. They bring in dollars, expand your reach, and lend credibility. But this isn’t a one-and-done transaction. This is relationship-building, people! You’re looking to create partnerships, not just snag checks.

Let’s talk about how to do that—with grace, with clarity, and without losing your mind.

So, What Exactly Does a Sponsor Do?

Think of a sponsor as that generous friend who shows up to your party with three bottles of wine, helps set the table, and tells everyone how fabulous you are. Sponsors provide financial or in-kind support—money, auction items, maybe a spread from the local bakery—and in return, they get recognition, visibility, and all the warm fuzzies of supporting a cause that matters.

For them, it’s not just altruism—it’s smart business. They want to build their brand, align with community values, and yes, maybe even reach some new customers along the way.

Why Sponsors Matter (Like, a Lot)

Let’s break it down. Here’s why sponsorships are the secret sauce to nonprofit events:

• Cold, hard cash: They help you pay for the venue, food, printing, signage, and maybe even that live band you’ve been dreaming of.
• Built-in audience: They introduce you to their networks. You get to crash their party in the best way.
• Credibility boost: People take you more seriously when they see a trusted brand standing with you.
• New tools and connections: Their Rolodex (yes, that’s a throwback) becomes yours.
• Feel-good ripple effects: Their involvement enriches your community. Period.
• Long-term love: A well-nurtured sponsor might just become your ride-or-die for the next event—and the one after that.

Finding the Right Sponsors (Without Selling Your Soul)

You don’t need to chase every business in town. You need the right ones. Here’s where to start:

• Check your guest list from past events. Someone’s cousin might run a business that’s dying to support you.
• Google is your friend. Research companies whose missions align with yours. You’re looking for a values match, not just a logo.
• Tap your network. Board members, volunteers, that donor who knows everyone—ask around.
• Scour your donor database. You may have hidden gems in there who own businesses and love what you do.
• Go local. Look at community-minded businesses in your own backyard. They’re often the most loyal.
• Talk to your vendors. Your caterer or printer might be thrilled to be a sponsor and already know your vibe.

Now Let’s Talk About The Ask

Cue the sweaty palms, right? Don’t worry. You’ve got this. Here’s how to approach sponsorship with confidence and class.

1. Build a killer sponsorship packet

This is your pitch deck, your calling card, your love letter. It should include:

• A short, powerful summary of your mission and event goals
• Who your audience is and why it matters
• What sponsors get in return (visibility, leads, hugs)
• Sponsorship levels or custom opportunities
• Your contact info and next steps

Pro tip: Make it look good. Canva is your bestie.

2. Make it personal

Don’t just mass-email your sponsor packet into the void. Reach out directly. Send a warm, personalized note. Reference why you thought of them. If you’ve met before, remind them where. Show them you’ve done your homework.

3. Keep the communication flowing

Once they say yes (yay!), don’t ghost them. Update them. Thank them. Ask for their logo. Tell them what to expect at the event. Post-event, send results and a heartfelt thank-you.

Making Your Sponsors Fall in Love with You (and Come Back Again)

Want to turn a one-time sponsor into a forever partner? Here’s how:

• Deliver on what you promised. This isn’t optional. If you offered stage time, give them the mic. If you promised their logo on a banner, it better be there.
• Show them the love. Thank them in person, in writing, online, and in your printed program.
• Make it fun. Give them unique experiences—VIP access, speaking opportunities, fun photo ops, or post-event shout-outs.
• Keep them in the loop. Let them know how the event went. Share impact stories. Make them feel like insiders.
• Ask for feedback. Not only does this make them feel valued, but it also gives you gold for your next sponsorship strategy.

Sweetening the Deal: What to Offer Sponsors

Don’t just slap their logo on a flyer and call it a day. Offer things that matter. Here are some ideas:

1. Branded giveaways
2. Shout-outs on social media and your website
3. Meet & greets or exclusive access
4. Custom activations at the event (a photo booth, anyone?)
5. Warm leads or data about attendees (where appropriate)
6. Post-event coverage and sponsor highlights
7. Opportunities to match donations or double impact

The Bottom Line

Sponsors aren’t just ATM machines. They’re partners. They want to be part of something meaningful. Your job? Show them the heart of your mission, make their involvement easy and joyful, and follow through with integrity and flair.

Nail this, and you’ll not only raise more money—you’ll build relationships that fuel your mission long after the last folding chair is stacked.

Want some ready-to-go sponsorship templates and email scripts that actually sound like a human wrote them? Our Success For Nonprofits Etsy Store has you covered: https://www.etsy.com/shop/SuccessForNonprofits

Let’s go get those sponsors. You’ve got this.

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Does this sound familiar? Your team bends over backward to bring new donors through the door. You host events. You post. You email. You charm. And then... crickets. A bunch of those first-time donors disappear without a trace.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re on a never-ending hamster wheel of donor acquisition, you’re not alone. But here’s the good news: some nonprofits have figured out how to stop chasing and start keeping. They’re not hunting down new donors every five minutes. Instead, they’re doubling down on loyalty. And guess what? It’s working.

Let’s talk about three surprisingly simple strategies you can put to work right now—no smoke, no mirrors, no magic wand required.

1. Make Giving So Easy It Feels Like Breathing

(Surprising? Only because we forget that convenience drives nearly everything else in our lives.)

Let’s get real for a second. You buy your latte on an app before you even leave the house. You tap your phone to pay for groceries. But when it’s time to make a donation? Suddenly we’re asking folks to fill out a form longer than a tax return.

Why are we making giving harder than it needs to be?

Here’s what the data says: nearly a quarter of donors prefer to give via things like PayPal, Venmo, or Apple Pay. But only 3% of nonprofits prioritize offering those options. That’s not just a gap—that’s a canyon.

Every step you remove from the donation process increases the chances a donor will actually complete their gift. Think of it like online shopping—the fewer clicks, the better.

Bonus tip: Offer monthly giving right at checkout. It’s simple, it’s intuitive, and it builds long-term donor loyalty on autopilot.

Bottom line: Your donors live in a frictionless world. If giving to you feels like work, they’ll move on. Make it easy, and they’ll stick around.

2. Ask What They Want. Then Actually Listen.

(Surprising? Only because we treat donor surveys like New Year’s resolutions—great in theory, but rarely done.)

Imagine buying your best friend a birthday gift without having any idea what they like. No hints. No list. Just vibes.

That’s how too many nonprofits approach their donor relationships.

Only 14% of organizations regularly survey their supporters. And yet, one of the top reasons donors stop giving? They don’t feel heard. Ouch. (For more cool and interesting facts about Nonprofit Fundraising Statistics check out this great blog post by Double The Donation here: https://doublethedonation.com/nonprofit-fundraising-statistics/)

Let’s flip that script. Send a quick survey after a donation. Add a one-question poll to your next email. Ask: “What inspired your gift today?” Then—stay with me here—use what they tell you. That feedback is pure gold.

Bottom line: Listening is your superpower. Ask. Respond. Reflect. Build trust. That’s the stuff of real relationships—and real relationships keep donors coming back.

3. Reconnect With Donors Who’ve Drifted Away

(Surprising? Only because we act like lapsed donors are ghosts. Spoiler alert: they’re not.)

You know that friend you’ve been meaning to text for ages? The one you really do care about, even though it’s been a while?

Your nonprofit has those friends, too. They’re not gone. They’re just waiting for a good reason to come back.

We spend so much time and money finding new donors, and almost none on re-engaging the ones who already said yes. But did you know it can cost five times less to re-engage a former donor than to find a new one?

Start small. Use your CRM to find folks who gave a year ago but haven’t been back. Send a warm, personalized message. Remind them why they gave. Tell them what their support made possible. Make it about them, not just your next campaign.

Bottom line: Past donors aren’t lost—they’re just waiting to be remembered. A heartfelt, thoughtful message might be all it takes to bring them home.

Let’s Wrap This Up (with a Bow of Authenticity)

Keeping donors isn’t some complex algebra equation. It’s not about shiny tech or the perfect email subject line. It’s about building real, human relationships.

You know how to be a good friend. You show up. You make things easy. You listen. You remind people they matter.

Do the same with your donors.

Make giving simple. Ask thoughtful questions. Respond with heart. Stay in touch—even when it feels like they’ve drifted. Because when you treat donors like real people (spoiler: they are), they don’t just stick around. They become champions for your cause.

And that? That’s how you build a thriving, generous community—one loyal donor at a time.

🎯 Want to Keep Donors Coming Back? Make It Ridiculously Easy to Say Yes.

You just read about the power of simplicity—how making things easy is the secret sauce to donor retention. Want a quick win? Start with your messaging.

✨ Enter the Nonprofit One-Pager—your go-to resource for crystal-clear communication. It’s the cheat sheet every donor (and board member, and potential sponsor, and media contact...) wishes you had.

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Your mission matters. Now make it easy for people to get it—and give because of it.

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Let’s talk about one of the least glamorous but most powerful tools in your nonprofit development plan toolbox: GuideStar.

I know. The name alone sounds like something out of a 2002 GPS system. But don’t let that fool you—GuideStar is the gold standard when it comes to nonprofit visibility and credibility.

So, if your profile is outdated, half-finished, or (gasp) you haven’t claimed it at all, let me explain why that’s costing you real money, real opportunities, and real trust.

What Is GuideStar, Anyway?

GuideStar (now part of Candid) is a massive database of every IRS-recognized nonprofit in the United States. It’s where funders, donors, grantmakers, and government agencies go when they want to learn more about your organization before making decisions.

In other words: it’s your nonprofit’s digital résumé. And if you’re applying for grants or trying to build donor trust, it better be polished.

Why You Need to Be Listed—and Updated

1. Funders Are Already Looking

Before a funder even visits your website, they’re likely pulling your GuideStar profile. Foundations and corporate grantmakers use it to:

• Confirm your 501(c)(3) status
• Check financial info (like your 990s)
• Review your mission and programs
• See who’s running the show

If your profile is incomplete, it makes you look disorganized. And that’s a hard first impression to undo.

2. Your GuideStar Profile Powers Other Donation Platforms

GuideStar isn’t just its own thing—it’s the backbone of many other platforms that support donations and donor-advised funds. It fuels donor-facing tools like:

• Network for Good
• JustGiving
• Fidelity Charitable
• Schwab Charitable
• Facebook Fundraisers (yes, those birthday fundraisers too)

So when you update GuideStar, you’re actually updating your info across multiple giving platforms at once. Talk about a time-saver.

3. You Can Earn a Transparency Seal

GuideStar offers transparency seals (Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum) based on how much information you share. These little digital badges do big things:

• They make you stand out in search results.
• They show you’re serious about accountability.
• Some funders require a minimum seal level just to apply for grants.

The higher the seal, the more you’re communicating: “We’ve got nothing to hide—and a lot to be proud of.”

4. It’s 100% Free

Yes, free. Claiming and updating your profile costs nothing but a bit of time. You don’t need to pay for the bells and whistles—just getting your profile to Bronze or Silver can already boost your credibility and search visibility.

How to Get Started

1. Visit www.guidestar.org
2. Search for your organization and claim your profile.
3. Fill in the Basics: Mission, programs, leadership team, 990s, and contact info.
4. Level Up Your Seal: Add metrics, board info, and DEI policies to unlock higher transparency levels.
5. Update Annually: Make it a habit—set a calendar reminder and treat it like an annual checkup.

Final Word: Don’t Sleep on This

You can have the best programs, the most passionate staff, and the cutest therapy dogs in your newsletter photos—but if you’re invisible on GuideStar (or look like a ghost town), you're losing opportunities before they even reach your inbox.

So take 30 minutes this week. Claim your profile. Update your info. Show the world—and your future funders—that you’re the real deal.

Because you are.

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You’ve done the work. The social media posts. The emails. The perfectly worded text messages. You’ve even wrangled your board to share the link (miracles happen). And then—finally!—your donor clicks that glorious “Donate Now” button.

Now what?

If your donation page is clunky, cluttered, or confusing, here’s what happens: they bounce. They ghost you. They vanish into the internet ether. And just like that, your potential donor becomes a cautionary tale.

Here’s the truth: the hardest part is getting folks to your donation page. Once they’re there, it should feel like a red carpet moment. Easy. Inviting. Painless. Even joyful.

But not all donation pages are created equal. Some look like a Mad Libs form from 2003. Others? They sing. They inspire. They convert.

If you’re ready to spruce things up this spring (because yes, spring cleaning applies to fundraising, too), I’ve got six simple but powerful fundraising strategies for seasoned and new nonprofits to help you turn your donation page into a fundraising powerhouse.

1. Add Suggested Giving Amounts (Because Most People Are Just Guessing)

Let’s be honest: most donors have no clue what amount will make a meaningful impact. That’s where you come in.

Suggested giving levels act like a friendly nudge: “Hey, this is what other awesome humans like you are giving!”

Pro tip: Use your average donation size as a guide. Then offer three options: a starting point, your average gift, and a stretch amount. Make it concrete. “$50 = one week of groceries for a family of four” is much more compelling than “$50.”

Help your donor see the impact. And don’t be afraid to dream bigger—sometimes just listing $100 inspires someone to say, “Sure, I can do that.”

2. Cut the Clutter (Seriously, Marie Kondo That Thing)

You don’t need sparkles. Or pop-ups. Or a photo gallery of last year’s pancake breakfast.

Your donation page has one job: to make giving easy.

Strip it down. Clean it up. Focus the eye on the action:

• One inspiring photo, tops.
• No pop-ups.
• Minimal form fields. (Yes, we love to know how people heard about us, but it’s not more important than closing the gift.)

Think clean, mobile-friendly, and clearly branded. A donation page should feel like the rest of your site—not a detour to the DMV.

3. Accept More Than Just Cash (Yes, Really)

We’ve been living in a Venmo world, and your donation page needs to catch up.

The average cash gift on a form is $128. Not bad. But a stock donation? Around $8,000. A DAF gift? $12,000.

Here’s what this means: If your page only takes credit cards, you’re leaving serious money on the table.

Invest in tools that allow donors to give stock, crypto, or recommend DAF grants. These high-capacity donors want to give big—and they love the tax perks. Make it seamless and they’ll make it generous.

4. Make Recurring Giving a No-Brainer

You want to build stability. Predictability. A revenue stream you can count on even when your gala gets rained out or your appeal email lands in spam. (Hey, it happens.)

Recurring giving is your BFF.

Here’s how to make it irresistible:

• Let donors check a box to “make this monthly.” Easy peasy.
• Show side-by-side comparisons: $25 one-time vs. $10/month recurring.
• After a one-time donation, ask: “Want to make this monthly?” It’s like asking, “Would you like fries with that?”—but for impact.

Bonus points if donors can easily manage their recurring gift on their own with emailing you and waiting a week.

5. Promote Matching Gifts (Because Two is Better Than One)‍

If I told you a donor could double their impact with zero extra effort, would you shout it from the rooftops? You should.

Corporate matching gifts are free money—but only if your donors know they exist.

Add a searchable matching gift database right on your donation page. Let folks look up their employer and see if their donation qualifies. Remind them during the gift, after the gift, and even in your thank-you email.

One in three donors say they’ll give more if a match is available. Let’s give them a reason to say yes.

6. Make It Mobile Friendly (Because That's Where Donors Are)

More than half of all nonprofit website traffic is coming from mobile devices. If your donation page isn’t mobile-optimized, you’re basically hanging a “Closed” sign on your virtual front door.

Fix it. Yesterday.

That means:

• Big, tappable buttons
• Limited scrolling
• Drop-downs and multiple choice options instead of free-form fields
• Fast load times (because no one waits anymore)

Also consider adding a QR code to your direct mail or event signage that takes people right to your donation form. Instant access = instant action.

7. Say Thank You—Like You Really Mean It

I know what you’re thinking: This isn’t about the donation page itself!

Ah, but it is.

Because the donor journey doesn’t end when someone clicks “Submit.” That confirmation screen? That email receipt? Those are golden opportunities to cement a relationship—and tee up the next gift.

Here’s how to make your gratitude count:

• Customize your confirmation page. Include a short thank-you video from your ED, a powerful image, or a quick impact stat that makes them feel like a hero.
• Ditch the robotic receipt. Use warm, authentic language in your confirmation email—something that sounds like it was written by a human who actually cares. Because, well, it was, right?
• Add next steps. Invite them to follow you on social media, sign up for your newsletter, or share their gift with friends (hello, peer-to-peer opportunity!).
• Personalize when you can. A first-time $10 donor deserves the same love and appreciation as your major donor—just in a way that fits. Gratitude is scalable, folks.

A thank-you that feels sincere is more than just manners. It’s strategy.

Because donors who feel seen? They come back.

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The Bottom Line

Your donation page is not just a form. It’s a welcome mat. A trust-builder. A closer.

So go ahead. Trim the fluff. Boost the features. Make it easy, warm, and reflective of the amazing work you do.

Because when your donation page works harder, you can focus on what really matters: changing the world.

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For more fundraising strategies for new nonprofits, check out our resources!

Let me paint a picture for you: Imagine a steady stream of donations coming into your nonprofit every month. No more scrambling to meet quarterly goals, no more sleepless nights worrying about cash flow. That’s the magic of recurring giving. But starting a program can feel overwhelming, right? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.

This guide will help you plan, launch, and manage your recurring giving program. It's not about reinventing the wheel; it’s about building a program that fits your nonprofit’s unique personality and community.

Step 1: Dream Big and Set Goals

Start by asking yourself: What do I want to achieve with this program? Sure, you want financial sustainability, but what else? Perhaps you want to build a tight-knit donor community or create deeper engagement.

• Choose a name for your recurring donor group. Think of something that reflects your mission. Maybe it’s “Friends of YOUR NONPROFIT NAME GOES HERE" or “Kid's Heroes.” Make it personal and meaningful.
• Set a target. How many recurring donors are you aiming for? Dream big but stay realistic.
• Craft your message. Why should someone become a recurring donor? Highlight the impact their support will have. For example: “Your $25 a month provides meals for 10 families in need.”

Step 2: Plan the Launch

Timing is everything. Pick a launch date that aligns with your fundraising calendar and gives you enough runway to prepare.

• Segment your audience. Tailor your message for current donors, lapsed donors, and new prospects.
• Use multiple channels. Think email, direct mail, social media, and even phone calls. Each channel should echo the same message but be tailored to its audience.
• Optimize your website. Make sure your donation form is user-friendly, branded, and ready for recurring gifts. Add a case for support and remove distractions—no external links or unnecessary fields.

Step 3: Focus on the Donor Experience

Donor retention strategies for small nonprofits is about relationships. It starts with the giving process and continues long after the first donation.

• Test your donation page. Make sure it works seamlessly on every device.
• Create automated follow-ups. Send thank-you emails, reminders for expiring cards, and updates about their impact.
• Welcome them with open arms. Develop a multi-email welcome series to introduce new recurring donors to your community. Share stories, invite them to events, and let them know they’re part of something bigger.

Step 4: Build Relationships That Last

Recurring donors aren’t just supporters; they’re champions for your cause. Treat them like the VIPs they are.

• Celebrate milestones. Send anniversary cards or handwritten notes.
• Engage them regularly. Offer dedicated newsletters, exclusive updates, and special event invitations.
• Ask for their input. Surveys can help you understand their motivations and improve their experience.

Step 5: Measure Success and Refine

What gets measured gets improved. Keep tabs on these metrics:

• Retention rate. Are donors sticking around year after year?
• Engagement. How are they interacting with your communications?
• Growth. Are new recurring donors joining consistently?

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Recurring giving isn’t just a strategy; it’s a game-changer. It’s about creating a community of loyal, passionate supporters who believe in your mission. And the best part? It’s entirely within your reach.

Turn your vision into reality with our Success For Nonprofits Etsy Shop! Our resourse marketplace for nonprofits is packed with the tools, templates, and actionable items you need to build and grow a thriving monthly giving program. From step-by-step guides to donor engagement, grant writing workbooks for nonprofits, and fundraising strategies for new nonprofits, we’ve got everything you need to make recurring giving a cornerstone of your nonprofit’s success.

Let’s make your recurring giving program a reality. Your mission deserves nothing less!