In this episode, Tom Kelly and Haley Cooper explore the keys to effective fundraising and donor retention. They discuss why many nonprofits rush fundraising efforts without a strategy, how follow-up communication is often overlooked, and why shifting from event-based fundraising to relationship-building is crucial for long-term success.

Key Takeaways:

✔ Donor retention is essential for sustainability.

✔ Major gifts require intentionality and relationship-building.

✔ Transparency and communication improve donor stewardship.

✔ Social media strategies should be tailored to your audience.

✔ Emerging nonprofits should focus on depth over breadth in donor relationships.

✔ A compelling case for support and team alignment are foundational to success.

Whether you're an established nonprofit or just getting started, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you grow your impact!

Check out Haley and the Savvy Fundraiser https://www.linkedin.com/in/haley-cooper-cfre/

https://thesavvyfundraiser.kit.com/conversation

https://thesavvyfundraiser.com/

https://a.co/d/4VYfhIy

Connect with Tom - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/

Want to bring Tom to your next event? Contact us at: hello@realtomkelly.com

Tom Kelly is joined by Josh Birkholz to discuss the evolving landscape of nonprofits, focusing on trends, data analysis, donor engagement, and the powerful role of family foundations in shaping the future of philanthropy. They explore the challenges nonprofits face with declining donor numbers, the importance of trust, and how to effectively engage the next generation in charitable giving.

Josh and Tom share their expertise on leveraging data to grow donor bases, fostering collaboration between nonprofits, and shifting the focus from problems to solutions to regain public trust. The discussion also delves into the joy of giving, the significance of legacy-building, and how to engage children in philanthropy to instill values and create a purpose-driven life.

Key Takeaways:

- Nonprofits must stay updated on giving trends to thrive.

- Data analysis can help nonprofits grow their donor base.

- Family foundations are increasingly popular for structured giving.

- Engaging children in philanthropy fosters a sense of purpose and values.

- Building trust in nonprofits is critical to restore public confidence.

- Digital tools and storytelling are key to enhancing donor engagement.

- Planning charitable activities and creating a legacy of giving strengthens community impact.

Check out Joshua and BWF

http://www.bwf.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuabirkholz/

In this episode of the Million Dollar Nonprofit Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Elizabeth Searing, a nonprofit management professor, and Salman Bin Habib, a second-year PhD student, to explore a game-changing opportunity for nonprofits—collaborating with universities to strengthen impact, build capacity, and access valuable resources for free or at a low cost.

We break down:

- Common misconceptions about working with universities (and why most nonprofits aren’t leveraging them).

- How to tap into internships, fellowships, research projects, and strategic support that can elevate your nonprofit.

- Real-world examples of nonprofits benefiting from university partnerships, including projects with Charity Navigator.

- Practical strategies to find the right university programs aligned with your mission—whether you’re a small nonprofit or scaling up.

- The perfect stage for nonprofits to approach universities and maximize the partnership.

You’ll leave with actionable steps to start leveraging academic partnerships today!

Connect with Elizabeth - https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethsearing/

Connect with Tom - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/