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When it comes to raising money for your organization, many founders think the only way to get started is to ask people for donations. But the truth is, you don’t always have to start with money. In fact, before you ever raise your first dollar, you already have four forms of capital you can leverage to kickstart your fundraising and create impact.Let’s break them down. 1. Intellectual Capital Your knowledge, expertise, and unique experience are valuable assets. This is called intellectual capital. Many founders don’t realize that what they know can actually be turned into resources that generate income for their mission.You don’t always have to beg for donations, you can provide value instead. Imagine putting your intelligence, skills, and expertise into something tangible that helps people while also supporting your organization.For example, let’s say you’re a child counselor running a nonprofit that provides counseling for kids. You could create an e-book or online course explaining how to counsel children effectively and sell it to parents. By doing this, you’re:<ul><li>Achieving your mission </li><li>Empowering parents and kids </li><li>Creating a revenue stream for your nonprofit </li></ul>That’s the power of intellectual capital.2. Relationship Capital Who you know matters. Your relationship capital includes the people in your network who can support your mission. These could be:<ul><li>Business owners who might donate </li><li>Skilled professionals who can provide services like graphic design or website development </li><li>Mentors or community leaders who can open doors for you </li></ul>Some of these connections may provide financial support, while others can help you in different ways to grow your organization. Your network is a resource, you just have to recognize it and leverage it.3. Platform Capital Platform capital is all about the visibility and reach you already have. Maybe you’ve been active on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. Maybe you have access to influencers, TV presenters, or other people with audiences.These platforms give you an opportunity to amplify your message, attract support, and share your mission with more people. You don’t need a huge following to get started; what matters is showing up consistently and using the platforms you have strategically.4. Reputational Capital Some people call this story capital. It’s your credibility, integrity, and track record. People give to people they trust, and your story (how you got here, why you care, and what you’ve achieved) can be a powerful tool to inspire others to support your mission.If you’re thinking, “I don’t have anything to raise money with,” the truth is, you already do. Your reputation, your story, and the trust you’ve built are assets that can help you attract supporters and build momentum for your nonprofit. When you tap into these four forms of capital, intellectual, relationship, platform, and reputational, you’re not just raising money; you’re building a strong foundation for long-term impact.If you want to learn how to turn these forms of capital into real funding for your organization, we help nonprofit founders unlock transformational funding. We’ll teach you the strategies, equip you with the tools, and help you get the results you’re aiming for.Your next supporter is already closer than you think; you just have to know where to look and what you already have.<figure id="figure-lj9bdr5upnmf5yaxz1"><img id="lj9bdr5upnmf5yaxz1" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/cDQLdOiMEMpwY3A1GepyFccULfjvczafnohMyUju2VCM4qyPjG2zhdFxDRaZSE3n.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>

4 Forms of Capital Every Nonprofit Founder Has Before Raising a Dollar

Let’s be honest, if you’ve been begging donors, over-explaining, or trying to convince people to give to your nonprofit, you’ve probably realized by now that it doesn’t work. And it’s exhausting.The truth is: you don’t have to beg. You don’t have to convince. You don’t have to over-explain.What you need is a process, a fundraising process that helps donors see the value your organization provides, builds a real relationship with them, and naturally leads them to want to fund your mission.That’s what I want to share with you today: the what and the why behind successful fundraising. If you want the how, the actual system, templates, and step-by-step process you can plug into your organization, I’ll show you where to get that at the end.&nbsp; &nbsp; Why Most Fundraising Fails Here’s the biggest mistake nonprofit founders and fundraisers make:On the very first outreach, you’re already asking for money.Now think about this for a second. If a friend you haven’t spoken to in years suddenly texts you asking for money, how would you feel? Suspicious. Guarded. Probably saying “no.”That’s the exact way donors and funders feel when you reach out for the first time with your hand out.The truth is, people only give to people they know, like, and trust. You cannot withdraw from a relationship you haven’t invested in. If you try, the answer will almost always be “no.”&nbsp; &nbsp; The Formula: Know, Like, Trust If you want donors to say “yes,” you have to follow this sequence:Get them to know you. Introduce yourself and your organization. But don’t stop there, show them you’re valuable by providing value first. Share striking statistics, insights, or a simple framework that highlights the need you’re addressing. Get them to like you. How? Ask for advice. Ask for feedback. When people give you their perspective, they feel invested in your success. And when they feel invested, they start to like you. Get them to trust you. This is where you close the gap. Take the advice they gave you, apply it, and then circle back to show them the results. Acknowledge their input, express gratitude, and then invite them into partnership, whether that’s attending a program, co-developing something, or simply being present in your work. By the time you reach this point, making the ask feels natural. Because now, you’re not some random person asking for money, you’re a trusted partner inviting them into something meaningful.&nbsp; &nbsp; Why This Works This process works because it flips fundraising on its head. Instead of chasing donations, you’re building relationships. Instead of begging, you’re creating partnerships.And even when you get a “no,” the process doesn’t stop. With the right follow-up, stewardship, and continued value, many of those “no’s” eventually turn into “yeses.”&nbsp; &nbsp; Here’s the Truth Fundraising doesn’t have to be hard. It’s not about manipulation, convincing, or desperation. It’s about following the right process, every single time.I’ve just given you the what and the why.If you’re ready for the how, the proven system I’ve used to help fundraisers and nonprofit founders raise six and seven figures, then head over to my offer page here:<a data-mce-href="https://idealfunders.com/the-ideal-funders-funding-pathway" href="https://idealfunders.com/the-ideal-funders-funding-pathway" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">https://idealfunders.com/the-ideal-funders-funding-pathway</a>That’s where I’ll walk you through the step-by-step strategy, give you the tools, and show you how to put this process into action for your nonprofit.Because the truth is, once donors know you, like you, and trust you, saying “yes” becomes the easiest part.

How to Get Donors to Say “Yes” Every Time

<h2>Introduction</h2>In an era where nonprofits face increasing competition for donor dollars, finding effective strategies to boost donations is crucial. In this case study, we explore how a nonprofit successfully increased its donations by a remarkable 70%. Through a combination of innovative tactics and strategic planning, this organization serves as a model for others seeking to enhance their fundraising efforts.<figure id="figure-q1b1uukm0cmex63fzi"><img id="q1b1uukm0cmex63fzi" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2217510394/photo/digital-donation-and-online-charity.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=8lMdO3ZgZFIVcIAFtXBGsWuB93j3Ab-UmKy0Juq5Frg=" alt="nonprofit fundraising" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2217510394/photo/digital-donation-and-online-charity.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=8lMdO3ZgZFIVcIAFtXBGsWuB93j3Ab-UmKy0Juq5Frg=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Understanding the Challenge</h2>The nonprofit, focused on community development, faced a common challenge: stagnant donation levels despite growing needs. With an ambitious goal to expand its programs, it became imperative to devise a strategy to attract more donors and increase contributions from existing supporters.Recognizing the limitations of their previous fundraising approaches, the leadership team embarked on a mission to revitalize their efforts. They identified key areas for improvement and set out to implement changes that would resonate with their target audience.<h2>Implementing Digital Strategies</h2>One of the first steps was to enhance their online presence. The nonprofit revamped its website to ensure it was user-friendly and visually appealing. A streamlined online donation process was introduced, making it easier for supporters to contribute with just a few clicks.Additionally, they leveraged social media platforms to reach a wider audience. Regular updates, engaging content, and compelling stories about the impact of donations helped in building a stronger connection with potential donors.<figure id="figure-mdfsy8n3umex63fzi"><img id="mdfsy8n3umex63fzi" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1920890383/photo/close-up-hand-chat-with-chatbot-on-mobile-app.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=o8Sy570MspAduBY5_ueag8TtZ5VSYPfSCflHm5LsNdM=" alt="digital marketing" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1920890383/photo/close-up-hand-chat-with-chatbot-on-mobile-app.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=o8Sy570MspAduBY5_ueag8TtZ5VSYPfSCflHm5LsNdM=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Personalized Donor Engagement</h2>Understanding the importance of personal connections, the nonprofit implemented a personalized donor engagement strategy. This involved segmenting their donor database and tailoring communications to fit each group’s interests and giving history.They also launched a series of virtual events and webinars, providing donors with exclusive insights into the nonprofit’s projects and achievements. This approach helped to foster a sense of community and belonging among donors.<h2>Leveraging Partnerships</h2>Another significant factor in their success was forming strategic partnerships with local businesses and community organizations. By collaborating on fundraising events and campaigns, they were able to tap into new networks and reach potential donors who might not have been accessible otherwise.These partnerships not only provided additional exposure but also added credibility to the nonprofit’s mission, encouraging more people to contribute.<figure id="figure-7v1dsd7vmamex63fzi"><img id="7v1dsd7vmamex63fzi" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2199034010/photo/volunteer-people-or-group-in-circle-outdoor-for-synergy-collaboration-or-donation-charity.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=_70zoEpySgG5JeU1waf017AhxmmLlBezoZexZv6h6bo=" alt="community partnership" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2199034010/photo/volunteer-people-or-group-in-circle-outdoor-for-synergy-collaboration-or-donation-charity.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=_70zoEpySgG5JeU1waf017AhxmmLlBezoZexZv6h6bo=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>The Power of Storytelling</h2>Storytelling played a pivotal role in the nonprofit’s fundraising strategy. By sharing powerful narratives of individuals who benefited from their programs, they were able to create an emotional connection with donors.These stories were shared across various platforms, including newsletters, social media, and during events. By highlighting real-life impacts, donors felt more inclined to contribute, knowing their money was making a tangible difference.<h2>Results and Impact</h2>The combination of these strategies led to an impressive 70% increase in donations. Not only did this financial boost allow the nonprofit to expand its services, but it also strengthened its relationship with the community.The success of this initiative has provided a blueprint for other nonprofits seeking similar growth. By embracing digital tools, personalized engagement, partnerships, and storytelling, organizations can significantly enhance their fundraising outcomes.<figure id="figure-khj4pqngxomex63fzi"><img id="khj4pqngxomex63fzi" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2199033939/photo/discussion-volunteers-and-happy-for-charity-group-and-success-of-fundraiser-team-and-mature.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Vb8D7Bt6sEp1gNBjuY5zbMFBPnOVp5r6xyw2PcBSGc0=" alt="fundraising success" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2199033939/photo/discussion-volunteers-and-happy-for-charity-group-and-success-of-fundraiser-team-and-mature.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Vb8D7Bt6sEp1gNBjuY5zbMFBPnOVp5r6xyw2PcBSGc0=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Conclusion</h2>This nonprofit’s journey demonstrates that with thoughtful planning and execution, significant improvements in donation levels are achievable. As other nonprofits look to replicate this success, they can take inspiration from these strategies tailored to resonate with their unique audiences and goals.Ultimately, the key takeaway is that fostering genuine connections and effectively communicating the impact of donations can inspire generosity and drive substantial growth in charitable contributions.

Case Study: How A Nonprofit Increased Donations by 70%

There are seven categories of ideal funders for your nonprofit organization.When I say “ideal funders,” I’m talking about the people, businesses, organizations, grantors, foundations, and government agencies that have the capacity, affinity, and propensity to give to a mission like yours.Your job as a nonprofit founder is to identify who these people and organizations are and then go after them with focus and strategy. That’s the foundation of successful, sustainable fundraising.The truth is, many founders reach out to people and organizations with high hopes, only to be met with silence. Some never respond. Some politely decline. Others keep saying “no” again and again. At some point, it starts to feel like you’re begging, overexplaining, overconvincing, just to get someone to give.But here’s the reality: if you haven’t identified your ideal funders, you will always struggle.There are people and organizations out there who already have an established reason to want your nonprofit to succeed. They’re already aligned with your mission. They’re already invested in the outcomes you’re working toward. Your job is to find them, and then approach them systematically and strategically so they can say “yes” with confidence.Today, I want to focus on just one of the seven categories of ideal funders: the Benefits Category.&nbsp; &nbsp; The Benefits Category The Benefits Category includes the people, businesses, and organizations that benefit directly or indirectly from your mission.This concept surprises a lot of nonprofit founders, because inside the sector, we tend to think only about the people we serve. But the truth is, there’s always a wider network of beneficiaries connected to your impact.Let’s look at some examples.Example 1: Empowering Nonprofit Founders If you run a nonprofit that supports other nonprofit founders, then those founders are the direct beneficiaries of your mission. In many cases, they already have resources and the capacity to fund your vision, whether that’s through membership fees, training fees, or registrations.Because they benefit directly, it’s much easier to convince them to support you.Example 2: Empowering the Homeless Now, let’s say your organization empowers people experiencing homelessness. The homeless themselves are direct beneficiaries, but most of them don’t have the capacity to give back financially.So where do you look? You look at the indirect beneficiaries.<ul><li>Family members: they benefit from seeing their loved one stably housed and off the streets. </li><li>Real estate agents: they gain new clients as people move into homes. </li><li>Real estate companies: they profit from housing transactions. </li><li>Home décor stores: they sell furniture and decorations to newly housed individuals. </li><li>Housing divisions within local government: your work supports their mandate, so they may provide resources or funding. </li></ul>All of these groups benefit indirectly from your mission.Example 3: Empowering Children If your mission serves children, you may think your work begins and ends with the kids themselves. But the real list of beneficiaries goes much further.<ul><li>Parents benefit because their children are supported. </li><li>Teachers benefit because they can focus on teaching without constant behavioral struggles. </li><li>Schools benefit because empowered children raise the overall standard of education. </li></ul>Again, all of these groups are benefactors of your mission, whether you’ve realized it or not.&nbsp; &nbsp; Why This Matters If you don’t understand this concept, you’ll waste time chasing the wrong funders. You’ll keep knocking on doors that never open.But once you identify your direct and indirect benefactors, everything changes. You can invite them into real partnerships where everyone wins:<ul><li>The people you serve benefit. </li><li>Your partners benefit by connecting their brand, mission, or business with meaningful impact. </li><li>And your organization benefits by gaining sustainable funding. </li></ul>This is the essence of true partnership. It’s not begging. It’s not convincing. It’s aligning interests and working together toward a shared outcome.And here’s the bigger picture: beneficiaries are only one of seven categories of ideal funders. Others include people with a giving history, those who want to enhance their reputation, and more.When you research across all seven categories, you’ll discover a wide range of funders, people, businesses, organizations, and agencies who have a reason to support your mission. And once you tap into those reasons, you’ll be able to build long-term partnerships and unlock transformational funding.&nbsp; &nbsp; The Path to Six and Seven Figures If you’re struggling to raise funds right now, I want you to know this: it is possible to raise six to seven figures over the next 12 months. But it won’t come from scattering your efforts or begging for donations.It starts with building the right foundation. The first step is identifying who your ideal funders are. From there, you can engage them systematically, strategically, and sustainably.That’s how you transform your fundraising. That’s how you move from struggling to thriving. That’s how you build an organization that is strong, resilient, and equipped to achieve its mission. Are You Ready To Unlock Transformational Funding? Let's schedule a free call to discuss what that looks like for your organization. Use the link below to select a convenient time. <a data-mce-href="https://calendly.com/meetwithrooney/introductory-call" href="https://calendly.com/meetwithrooney/introductory-call" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">https://calendly.com/meetwithrooney/introductory-call</a>

One Overlooked Funding Source That Could Unlock 6–7 Figures for Your Nonprofit

If you know me well, there’s one thing you’ll notice quickly: I hate asking for help. I like to feel self-sufficient, capable of handling things on my own.So when I first started fundraising, it felt awful. I felt like I was begging, trying to convince people to give, lowering myself to a position I wasn’t comfortable with. And to be honest, that mindset almost crippled my efforts.But everything changed when I realized something powerful: fundraising isn’t begging, it’s inviting.That shift in perspective took me from struggling to raise a few dollars to raising over $5 million, and later working with other fundraisers across the country to raise hundreds of millions.Here’s what made the difference.&nbsp; &nbsp; Step 1: Know Who Already Has a Reason to Give The breakthrough came when I stopped trying to convince people to care and started focusing on people who already had their own reasons to give.Because when someone already sees the value in your mission, you don’t need to twist their arm. All you need to do is tap into that reason and invite them into partnership.Think about it:A homeless empowerment organization doesn’t need to “beg” real estate companies. Real estate agents benefit directly when people move from the streets into homes. Supporting your work means future clients for them. City council members or housing reps don’t need to be convinced either. Partnering with you makes them look good in front of their constituents. When you align with someone’s existing reasons to give, your role shifts from persuader to partner.&nbsp; &nbsp; Step 2: Speak Their Language of Impact This is where most founders miss the mark. They discuss their financial needs, rather than demonstrating how the funder’s goals align with their mission.Instead of:“Please donate, we’re struggling to fund this program…” Try:“We help move people off the streets so they can become your future clients. Let’s partner to make this happen together.” That’s not begging. That’s partnership.&nbsp; &nbsp; Step 3: Look for Alignment, Not Just Money The biggest fundraising mistakes happen when you chase people or businesses who aren’t aligned with your vision. That’s when it starts to feel like begging.However, if your nonprofit empowers children and you approach children’s brands or corporations that already serve kids, you don’t have to convince them. You’re showing them how your impact expands theirs.The secret? Alignment creates momentum.&nbsp; &nbsp; The Shift That Unlocks Millions The day I stopped begging and started inviting was the day fundraising became natural. That’s when I stopped chasing scraps and started closing six and seven-figure partnerships.And here’s the truth I want you to take with you:Fundraising is not about convincing people to give. It’s about inviting the right people, those already aligned with your mission, to a partnership.When you find those people, you don’t feel like you’re asking for help. You feel like you’re building something powerful together.That’s how you raise six or seven figures, not by lowering yourself, but by stepping up as a partner in impact.P.S.: Struggling to raise money. Let's talk. I will be happy to provide you with clarity and show you how to raise 6 to 7 figures for your nonprofit over the next 12 months. Pick a convenient time here: <a data-mce-href="https://calendly.com/meetwithrooney/introductory-call" href="https://calendly.com/meetwithrooney/introductory-call">https://calendly.com/meetwithrooney/introductory-call</a>

Stop Begging for Donations & Start Inviting Powerful Partnerships For Your Nonprofit

What I’m about to share with you are the very reasons why many founders struggle to raise money consistently for their organizations. I’ve lived it myself. I used to be confused and overwhelmed by fundraising, unsure of what I was doing wrong. But over time, I discovered not just how to raise money, I went on to raise over $5 million and worked alongside other fundraisers who collectively raised almost a billion dollars in the nonprofit space.So, if you’re ready to shift from struggling to raising six or even seven figures for your mission, let’s dive into the most common mistakes and more importantly, how to overcome them.&nbsp; &nbsp; 1. You’re Reaching Out to the Wrong Audience This is the biggest trap. I used to believe anyone and everyone should give to my cause. If people could just see the impact we were making, surely they’d donate, right?Wrong.Not everyone is meant to give to your mission. People only give to causes that matter deeply to them. If your cause doesn’t resonate with their story, values, or experience, no amount of convincing will change that.When you reach out to the wrong audience, it doesn’t just waste time, it chips away at your confidence. Every “no” makes you hesitate, doubt yourself, and sometimes even stop taking action.The fix? Identify your right audience, people who are already aligned with your cause, who benefit from it, or who have experienced what you’re helping others through. These people have the propensity, affinity, and capacity to give. Build your fundraising foundation on them, not on everyone else.&nbsp; &nbsp; 2. You Don’t Have a Clear Fundraising Strategy Most organizations reach out with their hands out:“We need $10,000. We need $1,000. We need $50.” But here’s the problem, people hate transactional relationships. They don’t want to feel like an ATM. They want to feel valued. They want to know you see them, care about them, and have their best interests at heart.That’s why you need a fundraising process that builds the know-like-trust factor before you ever make the ask. Think of it this way: you can’t withdraw from a relationship you’ve never invested in.Even with grants, this principle holds true. Most grantors give to organizations they already know or trust. Building relationships before applying dramatically increases your chances.The fix? Build relationships first. Show people they matter. Nurture trust before asking for money.&nbsp; &nbsp; 3. You’re Trying to Do It All Alone The nonprofit world is not a one-man show, it’s a place for collaboration.When you try to carry everything by yourself, burnout is inevitable. You need a team that helps execute your fundraising efforts:<ul><li>Someone to manage emails </li><li>Someone to set up appointments </li><li>Someone to connect with prospective donors </li></ul>And beyond your staff or volunteers, your board should be a fundraising partner, too. Not by magically asking for huge donations, but by opening doors in their networks. Equip them with scripts, proposals, and cases for support so they feel confident and prepared.The fix? Stop trying to be a lone wolf. Build and equip a fundraising team, including your board, that multiplies your capacity.&nbsp; &nbsp; 4. You Don’t Have a Follow-Up Process Here’s the truth: if you reach out to 1,000 people, most will not give on the first ask. And that’s okay. But what separates struggling organizations from thriving ones is the follow-up.Follow up with those who didn’t give, showing you value the relationship, not just the money. Steward those who did give with thank-you notes, updates, and stories of impact. Keep nurturing every connection, because today’s “no” can become tomorrow’s “yes.” One fundraiser I know even asks for referrals after a no:“If this isn’t a fit for you, could you recommend three others who might align with our cause?” That simple shift can turn rejection into opportunity.The fix? Put systems in place to follow up, steward, and nurture relationships long after the first ask.&nbsp; &nbsp; Bringing It All Together If you’re struggling to raise money, it usually comes down to these four things:<ul><li>Reaching out to the wrong audience </li><li>Lacking a clear fundraising strategy </li><li>Trying to do it all alone </li><li>Neglecting follow-up and stewardship </li></ul>Fix these, and you’ll build a fundraising system that funds your nonprofit today and sustains it tomorrow.I’ll be sharing even more on building a strong team, equipping your board, and reaching six to seven figures in the next 12 months. Stay connected, share this with others who need it, and let’s transform the way your nonprofit raises money.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Nonprofit Strategist

Blog

4 Forms of Capital Every Nonprofit Founder Has Before Rai...

How to Get Donors to Say “Yes” Every Time

Case Study: How A Nonprofit Increased Donations by 70%

One Overlooked Funding Source That Could Unlock 6–7 Figur...

Stop Begging for Donations & Start Inviting Powerful Part...

4 Reasons You Are Finding It Hard to Raise Money and What...