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We've come a long way together. In Step 1, you identified and built your list of ideal funders. In Step 2, you created a rock-solid fundraising plan with your irresistible offer. In Step 3, you recruited and equipped your team, including volunteers, interns, and board members, with the materials needed to execute. Now, it's time for the exciting finale: launching your fundraising campaign. This step is all about action—leading your team to bring everything to life and turn your plan into real results.Launching isn't just about flipping a switch; it's about guiding your team through consistent execution of the fundraising plan of care you developed. When done right, it creates momentum, builds lasting relationships, and generates sustainable funding. The beauty is, with the systems we'll set up here, your campaign can run smoothly even when you're not micromanaging every detail. You'll focus on leadership, accountability, and smart automation to keep things moving. By the end of this video, you'll know exactly how to kick things off and maintain the engine.Let's dive in. I'll explain each part of the launch process, why it's essential, and how to implement it. As always, start with personal brainstorming, then leverage your team and tools, such as AI, for increased efficiency.First, hold an onboarding meeting for your team and board.This is your campaign kickoff—a virtual or in-person gathering where you align everyone on the plan. Discuss each step of execution in detail: Review the prospect list from Step 1, the goal, offer, and four-step engagement process from Step 2 (Get Them to Know You, Get Them to Like You, Get Them to Trust You, and Make the Ask), and the roles, materials, and budget from Steps 2 and 3.Why important? Without alignment, efforts fragment—someone might skip building trust and jump to the ask, killing potential donations. This meeting builds excitement, clarifies responsibilities, and sets expectations for accountability.To do it: Schedule it within a week of completing Step 3. Prepare an agenda: 1) Mission recap and goal reminder. 2) Walk through the four-step process with examples (e.g., "For a Benefit category business, start with an intro email sharing a relevant case study."). 3) Assign prospects—divide your 30-50 list among team members based on strengths (e.g., board for personal networks). 4) Demo materials like email templates. 5) Set timelines (e.g., contact 10 prospects/week). Conclude with Q&amp;A and a motivational message: "Together, we're transforming lives."Brainstorm personally: Jot down your agenda outline and key talking points. Spend 10 minutes visualizing potential roadblocks (e.g., tech issues) and solutions.Use AI: Input your plan details; it can generate a full agenda, slide deck outline, or even scripts for your presentation.Next, execute the four-step process.With everyone onboarded, roll up your sleeves and start engaging prospects. Lead by example—assign tasks weekly and monitor progress. For each prospect, follow the plan: Introduce (Know You), build rapport (Like You), prove impact (Trust You), then ask tailored to their category and your offer.Why essential? This is the core of relationship-building we emphasized—no hands-out asks. It ensures high conversion by nurturing trust.Implementation: Use a shared tool like Google Sheets or a free CRM (e.g., HubSpot) to track progress per prospect (e.g., columns for steps completed, notes). Meet weekly (15-30 minutes) to review wins and adjust.Then, handle follow-ups for non-givers and stewardship for givers.Not everyone says yes immediately— that's okay. For non-givers, have a gentle follow-up process: After 1-2 weeks of no response, send a value-add nudge (e.g., "Sharing this impact story that aligns with your work—thoughts?"). If still silent after 2-3 touches, move to a low-touch nurture list (quarterly updates) to keep them warm for future asks.For givers, stewardship is key to repeat donations—treat them like VIPs. Send immediate thanks (auto if possible), share personalized updates (e.g., "Your $1,500 funded 10 Back-to-School Packs—here's a photo!"), and invite deeper involvement (e.g., events, advisory roles). Aim for 4-6 touches/year to build loyalty.Why important? Follow-ups recover 20-30% of potential "nos," while good stewardship can double lifetime value—turning one-time donors into lifelong supporters.Brainstorm: List 3-5 follow-up tactics and stewardship ideas per donor type.Engage your board members in stewardship.Boards are gold for this— they add a personal touch that feels authentic. Assign donors monthly: Distribute givers among board members (e.g., 5-10 per member, based on their connections). Provide scripts and processes: For calls, "Hi [Donor], as a board member, I wanted to personally thank you for your support and share how it's making a difference." For handwritten notes, templates like "Dear [Donor], Your generosity transformed [specific impact]. We'd love to keep you updated—any thoughts on our next program?" Guide them on frequency (e.g., quarterly) and goals: Encourage upgrades or referrals to help donors give repeatedly.Why? Boards foster emotional bonds, increasing retention by 50% or more. It also keeps them engaged in your mission.Implementation: Create a stewardship calendar and share via email or a tool like Trello.Hold each team member, including the board, accountable.Accountability turns plans into results. Set clear KPIs (e.g., "Contact 5 prospects/week," "Send 3 stewardship notes/month"). Utilize check-ins: hold weekly team huddles and monthly board reports. Celebrate wins (e.g., shoutouts) and address misses gently (e.g., "What support do you need?").Why essential? Without it, tasks slip—accountability ensures consistent execution and team growth.Brainstorm: Define 2-3 metrics per role.Finally, automate where you can using technology.This is a game-changer for sustainability—your campaign runs even when you're not there. Utilize free/low-cost tools: Email automation (Mailchimp for drip sequences, such as intro/follow-up series), call scheduling (Calendly for meetings), and auto thank-yous (via donation platforms like Donorbox). Integrate with CRM for reminders (e.g., auto-nudge for stewardship).Why? Automation saves time (up to 50%), reduces errors, and scales efforts—freeing you for high-touch leadership.Brainstorm: List 3-5 automatable tasks from your plan.To launch: After onboarding, set a start date (e.g., next Monday). Monitor for 4-6 weeks, tweak as needed. Track overall progress toward your goal—celebrate milestones!This wraps our 4-step process. You've built a complete, repeatable fundraising system—from prospects to ongoing revenue. Congratulations—you're equipped to fund your mission sustainably.If you have any questions, email me at [your email]. If you need hands-on help to set up and execute this process, email me too—we can get you into my One-Day Challenge, where we set up your entire fundraising system in one day and execute together to create the funding results you seek.Thank you for joining—go launch and make an impact! If this helped, share with a fellow nonprofit leader. See you in your success stories.

Welcome to Step 4 of our 4-Step Fundraising Process: Launching Your Fundraising Campaign.

If you've made it this far, give yourself a pat on the back. In Step 1, you built a targeted list of ideal funders. In Step 2, you crafted a solid fundraising plan, complete with your irresistible offer, engagement process, goals, and an outline of the team roles and materials needed. Now, it's time to bring that plan to life by assembling and equipping your team. This step is all about turning your solo efforts into a collaborative powerhouse—because fundraising is a team sport, and trying to do it alone leads to burnout and missed opportunities.Let me emphasize why this is so crucial: By tapping into your team and board, you can multiply your results exponentially. You'll leverage diverse skills—like a volunteer's grant-writing expertise or a board member's network connections—to create far more impact than you could naturally achieve on your own. A well-equipped team doesn't just execute; it innovates, nurtures relationships, and sustains momentum. Additionally, starting small with volunteers allows you to bootstrap without a large budget, scaling up as funds become available. Remember, your goal isn't to hire a fancy staff overnight—it's to build a lean, motivated group that aligns with your mission and drives results.In this video, we'll cover how to recruit your team (including volunteers and interns), effectively involve your board members, and develop the execution materials outlined in your plan. I'll explain each part, its importance, and how to brainstorm it personally. Then, we'll discuss using AI to refine team roles and create those materials quickly and professionally. By the end, you'll be ready to launch in Step 4.Let's start with recruiting your fundraising team.From Step 2, you already have an outline of the roles needed—things like a Founder/Executive Director for oversight and high-level requests, a Development Coordinator for outreach and research, a Program Manager for events and impact demonstrations, and perhaps a Communications Specialist for messaging. If your nonprofit is just starting or cash-strapped, don't worry about hiring paid staff right away. Opt for volunteers or interns to begin with—they're passionate, mission-driven, and often bring fresh energy. As you raise money through initial campaigns, you can transition to part-time contractors (e.g., via Upwork or Fiverr for specific tasks), and eventually full-time roles as your organization scales.Why start with volunteers? They're accessible, cost-effective, and can test the waters for long-term fits. Many are eager to contribute their skills in exchange for experience, resume building, or personal fulfillment. Plus, involving them builds a sense of community ownership in your mission.To brainstorm recruitment personally: Review your role outlines from Step 2. For each, jot down 2-3 ideal traits (e.g., "organized, good with people" for a coordinator). Consider where to find them—start with your personal network from Step 1. Ask friends, family, or board members for referrals. Then, expand to platforms. Spend 10-15 minutes listing potential recruits and outreach ideas.Here are some top platforms to find volunteers and interns—I've curated this list based on reliable, widely used options that are free or low-cost for nonprofits:<ul><li>VolunteerMatch.org: A leading site where you post opportunities, and volunteers search by cause and location. Great for local recruits. </li><li>Idealist.org: Focuses on social impact roles; post volunteer gigs, and connects with mission-aligned people worldwide. </li><li>LinkedIn: Use the "Volunteer Opportunities" feature or post in groups like "Nonprofit Professionals" or search for "volunteers interested in [your cause]." </li><li>Catchafire.org: Matches skilled volunteers (e.g., marketers, writers) with nonprofits for short-term projects—perfect for developing materials. </li><li>Local universities or colleges: Reach out to their career centers for internship opportunities, especially in fields such as social work, business, or communications. Sites like Handshake.com can help. </li><li>AmeriCorps or local community centers: For service-oriented volunteers, or check Craigslist/Nextdoor for community postings. </li><li>Taproot Foundation: For pro bono professional services, like graphic design for materials. </li></ul>When posting, be clear: Describe the role, time commitment (e.g., 5-10 hours/week), skills needed, and perks (e.g., skill-building, networking). Interview candidates virtually to ensure a good fit—ask about their passion for your mission and their relevant past experience.Once recruited, onboard them with a simple orientation: Share your mission, plan, and tools like Google Workspace or a free CRM like HubSpot for tracking prospects.Next, involve your board members. Your board isn't just for governance—they're fundraising multipliers. Remember the personal networks you mapped in Step 1? Board members can tap into their own resources to open doors. All you have to do is provide them with email scripts, call scripts, or templates they can send to their contacts. For example, a script might say: "Hi [Name], as a board member for [Your Nonprofit], I'm reaching out because I think you'd love our work helping [target population]. Would you be open to a quick chat?" Then, your fundraising team (or the board member if they're comfortable) can follow up to make the ask using the four-step process.Why important? Boards often have high-affinity connections—professionals, donors, influencers—who trust them personally. This multiplies your reach without extra effort from you.Brainstorm: List your board members and assign 5-10 network contacts each from Step 1. Draft simple scripts tailored to categories (e.g., warmer for personal networks).Use AI here: Input your mission and role descriptions, and it can generate customized scripts, job postings for various platforms, or even interview questions.Now, equipping your team: Developing the execution materials.From Step 2, you have a list of needed materials—like email templates for the "Know You" step, grant templates for foundations, fundraising appeals (e.g., social media posts), proposals and sponsorship packets for corporates, a case for support (a one-pager on your mission and impact), donation pages (via tools like Donorbox or GoFundMe), impact reports, event invites, thank-you letters, and social graphics.Why develop these with your team? Collaboration ensures buy-in, leverages diverse skills (e.g., a volunteer's design talent for graphics), and customizes materials to your voice. It also builds team capacity—interns learn while contributing.To brainstorm personally: Prioritize 5-7 key materials based on your plan. For each, outline content: What problem it solves (e.g., proposal: Tailors ask to funder's motivations), format (PDF, email), and who on the team can help create it.Then, work with your team: Assign tasks—e.g., a volunteer drafts email templates, and you review them. Use free tools: Canva for graphics, Google Docs for templates, WordPress or Squarespace for donation pages.Supercharge with AI: This is where AI shines. Use prompts to refine team roles (if necessary, from Step 2) and develop supporting materials. For example, input your mission, offer, and a material type (e.g., "email template for Get Them to Like You step"); AI can generate full drafts, including personalized scripts for board outreach. Sample prompts in the workbook: First for role descriptions/job postings, second for material templates by type, third for scripts and appeals.Remember, materials should provide value—focus on stories, data, and benefits for funders, not just requests. Test them: Send a sample email to a friendly contact for feedback.Putting it all together: Aim to recruit 3-5 team members (volunteers/interns) within 2-4 weeks. Develop core materials in the next 1-2 weeks, involving everyone. Track in a shared doc: Who's responsible, deadlines, status.This step transforms your plan from a piece of paper to action. By building a team, you're not just raising funds—you're creating a sustainable system that grows with your nonprofit.Pause here, review your Step 2 roles and materials list, and start brainstorming recruits. Post on one platform today! In Step 4, we'll launch your campaign. You're almost there—keep the momentum! See you soon.

Welcome to Step 3 of our 4-Step Fundraising Process: Recruiting and Equipping Your Fundraising Team.

If you're joining me after completing Step 1, congratulations—you now have a solid list of 30 to 50 ideal funders tailored to your nonprofit's mission. That's the foundation. But a list alone won't raise money. You need a clear, strategic plan to engage those prospects and an irresistible offer that makes saying yes feel like a no-brainer. That's exactly what we're covering today.Let me start with a crucial mindset shift: You can't just reach out to a prospect with your hands out. Imagine emailing or calling someone for the first time and immediately asking for money—it's like showing up to a first date and proposing marriage. It feels abrupt, desperate, and off-putting. People often don't like it when you reach out for the first time and ask for money. To raise money successfully, people need to know, like, and trust you. You can only withdraw from a relationship you've invested in. That's why you need a fundraising process that gets them to know, like, and trust you. Your fundraising process should focus on building relationships and providing value before making the ask. This isn't manipulation; it's a natural part of human nature. When you invest time in nurturing connections—sharing insights, offering opportunities, demonstrating impact—funders feel valued, aligned, and excited to support you.In this step, we'll break down how to create a comprehensive fundraising plan and craft an irresistible offer. I'll explain each component, its importance, and how to brainstorm it personally. Then, we'll discuss using AI to expand and refine your ideas, such as generating a comprehensive plan or refining your offer. By the end, you'll have a roadmap ready to execute, turning your prospect list into actual donations.First, let's define the two core elements: the fundraising plan and the irresistible offer.Starting with the irresistible offer. Think of this as packaging your nonprofit's impact like a product—specific, tangible, and tied to a transformation with a clear cost. Donors aren't just giving money; they're buying change. For example, if your organization runs a back-to-school program, your offer could be a "Back-to-School Pack" for $150. This pack includes all the items a student needs to have a great school session: backpack, notebooks, pencils, uniforms, and maybe even tutoring sessions. A funder can then say, "I like to fund 10 packs," knowing exactly what their $1,500 will achieve—10 kids starting the year confident and equipped, reducing dropout risks and boosting community futures.Why is this important? Generic asks like "Donate to our cause" feel vague and uninspiring. An irresistible offer makes it concrete, emotional, and scalable. It taps into the funder's desire to see real results, making them feel like a hero. Plus, it's easier to promote—on your website, emails, or events.To brainstorm your offer personally, reflect on your programs. What specific outcomes do you deliver? Break it down: What's the transformation (e.g., a child succeeding in school)? What are the components (e.g., supplies, support)? Assign a cost based on real expenses, adding a bit for overhead. Aim for offers at different levels—$50 for one item, $150 for a pack, $1,000 for a classroom. Spend 10-15 minutes listing 3-5 ideas, tailored to your mission. For an addiction recovery nonprofit, it could be a "$200 Recovery Kit" including counseling sessions, wellness tools, and peer support, transforming someone from isolation to community integration.Once brainstormed, use AI to refine: Input your mission and ideas into a prompt, and it can expand into detailed descriptions, pricing justifications, and even marketing copy. We'll provide sample prompts in the course workbook.Now, onto the fundraising plan. This is your blueprint— a document outlining how you'll raise the money, from goal-setting to execution. Without it, your efforts scatter, leading to burnout and low results. With it, you stay focused, track progress, and scale efficiently. The plan includes six key components: the goal, the engagement process (or "plan of care"), the required personnel, execution materials, the offer (which we have already covered), and the execution budget.Let's break them down one by one.Component 1: Fundraising Goal.This is your North Star—what amount do you need to raise, by when, and what transformation will it provide? Be specific. For example, "Raise $50,000 by December 31st to fund 300 Back-to-School Packs, equipping underserved students in our community for academic success and reducing inequality."Why important? A vague goal, such as "raise more money," lacks urgency and motivation. A clear one rallies your team, excites funders, and allows measurement. It ties back to impact, showing donors their role in the bigger picture.Brainstorm: Calculate based on needs—program costs, timelines. Factor in your prospect list from Step 1: If you have 50 prospects, aim for 20-30% conversion at average gift sizes. Write it down: Amount + Deadline + Transformation.Use AI: Prompts can analyze your budget and mission to suggest realistic goals and breakdowns.Component 2: Fundraising Engagement Process or Plan of Care.This is the heart of your plan—the step-by-step process to nurture prospects into donors. It follows my proven four-step process, tailored for each donor type (e.g., individuals, corporations, foundations). Include timelines, follow-ups for non-givers, and stewardship for givers to encourage repeats.The four steps:<ul><li>Get Them to Know You: Introduce your nonprofit and mission without asking for anything. Actions might include sending a personalized email with a mission video, inviting them to a virtual event, or sharing a relevant blog post that aligns with their interests. For a corporate funder in the Benefit category, host a webinar on how your programs boost workforce productivity. </li><li>Get Them to Like You: Build rapport by providing value and aligning with their goals. Feature them in a newsletter, co-host a community event, or offer exclusive insights. For a Status-driven individual, recognize them publicly at an event. </li><li>Get Them to Trust You: Demonstrate credibility with proof. Share impact reports, testimonials, or invite for a site visit/program tour. Use data: "Last year, our packs helped 85% of students improve grades." </li><li>Make the Ask: Only now, request support tailored to them. Propose your irresistible offer, like "Would you sponsor 5 packs at $750?" Make it personal, either via a call or a meeting. </li></ul>For each donor type (as categorized in Step 1), adapt these steps accordingly. Add timelines: e.g., Week 1: Know You (email intro); Week 2-3: Like You (event invite); Week 4: Trust You (report share); Week 5: Ask (meeting).Follow-up for non-givers: If no response is received, send a gentle nudge after two weeks, such as "I wanted to follow up on our invitation—here's a quick impact story." If still no, move to nurture mode (quarterly updates) or deprioritize.Stewardship for givers: Thank them immediately (personal note), update them on the impact (e.g., photos of funded packs), and invite them to deeper involvement. Aim for repeat gifts: After 6 months, ask again with a new offer.Why important? This process builds know-like-trust, turning cold prospects into warm relationships. Without it, asks fail; with it, conversion rates soar to 40-60%.Brainstorm: Map the four steps for 2-3 donor types. Add timelines (e.g., 4-8 weeks per prospect). List follow-up and stewardship tactics.Use AI: Input your prospect types and mission; it generates customized plans, timelines, and scripts for each step.Component 3: People Needed to Execute the Plan.Who will do the work? Outline a lean team: Roles like Founder/ED (oversees asks), Development Coordinator (research/outreach), Program Manager (hosts events), Volunteer (follow-ups).Why important? Fundraising isn't solo—delegate to avoid overload and ensure consistency.Brainstorm: List 3-5 roles, responsibilities (e.g., ED: High-level asks), skills (e.g., communication), and time commitments (e.g., 10 hours/week).Use AI: Our prompts suggest team structures tailored to your size and goals.Component 4: Execution Materials Needed.Tools to support your process: Email templates, impact reports, event invites, sponsorship packets, thank-you letters, and social graphics.Why important? Professional materials build trust and streamline efforts.Brainstorm: List 5-10 items tied to steps (e.g., Know You: Intro video; Ask: Proposal PDF).Use AI: Generate templates and content.Component 5: The Fundraising Offer.We covered this—integrate it into the plan as the "what" in your ask.Component 6: Execution Budget.How much to spend on fundraising? E.g., $2,000 for events, printing, and software. Aim for 10-20% of the goal.Why important? Tracks ROI; prevents overspending.Brainstorm: Estimate costs for materials, events, and tools.Use AI: Budget breakdowns. To wrap up: Spend 30-60 minutes brainstorming these components. Compile into a simple document or spreadsheet. Then, use AI prompts (in the workbook) to build a comprehensive plan: First, prompt for the goal and offer; second, for the engagement process by donor type; third, for the team, materials, and budget.This plan isn't set in stone; it will be reviewed quarterly. With it, you're investing in relationships, providing value, and positioning asks for success.Pause now, grab a piece of paper, and brainstorm your goal and offer. In Step 3, we'll build your team. You're doing great—let's turn prospects into partners! See you soon. Why This Matters When you put all of this together — your goal, your offer, your engagement process, your team, your materials, your stewardship — you now have a fundraising system.This is the difference between winging it and consistently raising money.Because here’s the truth: money follows clarity, systems, and relationships. If you’re missing any of those, fundraising will always feel like begging. However, once you establish this plan, you’ll have a repeatable process that works not just once, but every time you run it.

Welcome to Step 2 of our 4-Step Fundraising Proce: Create Your Fundraising Plan and Irresistible Offers

To truly scale your fundraising and hit those bigger goals, you need to grow that list into the hundreds or even thousands. A detailed, expansive database isn't just about quantity—it's about quality leads that match your ideal profiles, increasing your chances of securing consistent funding. Today, we'll dive into proven strategies to expand your list, including the steps I've outlined, plus additional ones I recommend based on best practices in nonprofit fundraising. I'll also touch on how the AI prompts from Step 1 will guide you with even more tailored search recommendations.Remember, building a bigger list is an ongoing process. Start small, test what works for your nonprofit's mission and location, and iterate. The key is persistence—aim to add 50-100 new prospects per month. By brainstorming personally and using tools like AI, you'll create a pipeline that fuels your campaigns for years. Let's break it down: first, the expansion steps, then how to organize and build your list in a CRM or simple spreadsheet.Starting with the steps to find more ideal funders. These build on the profiles you generated in Step 1 (individuals, businesses, foundations, etc., across your eight categories: Personal Network, Benefit, Triumph Over the Need, Status, Interest, Mission Alignment, Influence Multipliers, and [e.g., Capacity Builders or your eighth category]). For each step, I'll explain what it is, why it works, and how to execute it. Brainstorm personally: Spend 10-15 minutes per step listing ideas specific to your nonprofit.Step 1: Organic Search.This involves scouting your local or online community for people and entities that match the ideal profiles from Step 1. Think grassroots detective work—attending events, scanning directories, or browsing community forums.Why it works: It's low-cost and uncovers hidden gems right in your backyard, like local businesses benefiting from your programs or individuals who've triumphed over similar challenges.How to execute: Use free tools like Google searches (e.g., "therapists in [your location] addiction recovery" for a recovery nonprofit), local chamber of commerce directories, or community Facebook groups. Cross-reference with your profiles' key characteristics (e.g., demographics, motivations). Aim for 20-30 new leads per session.Step 2: Supporters and Present Donors.Leverage your existing base—current donors, volunteers, or supporters—to get referrals. Reach out and ask them to recommend people who match your ideal funder profiles.Why it works: Warm introductions convert at 5-10x the rate of cold outreach because trust is already transferred. Your supporters know your impact and can vouch for you.How to execute: Send a simple email or survey: "Based on our ideal funder profiles (attached), who do you know that might align? We'd love an intro!" Offer incentives like a thank-you shoutout. Follow up with a script: "Hi [Referral], [Supporter] recommended you because of your interest in [shared cause]."Step 3: Social Media Ads.Run targeted ads on platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram to attract people matching your profiles. Instead of asking for donations, use lead-generation ads for advice, surveys, or polls to capture contact details.Why it works: Ads let you hyper-target by demographics, interests, and location (e.g., "Wellness professionals in [your city] interested in recovery programs"). For as low as $50 per week, you can get 20-50 qualified leads with emails or phone numbers.How to execute: Use Facebook Ads Manager—set audiences based on your profiles (e.g., job titles, interests). Ad copy: "We're a nonprofit helping [target population]. Take our quick survey for insights on [relevant topic] and get a free resource!" Link to a form (via Google Forms or Typeform) to collect info.Step 4: Advanced Search Platforms.Use specialized donor research tools like iWave, DonorScope, KindSight, or Clay to find thousands of matches with high propensity (likelihood to give), affinity (mission alignment), and capacity (financial ability).Why it works: These platforms aggregate data from public records, wealth indicators, and giving histories, saving you hours of manual work. They're ideal for scaling to major gifts or grants.How to execute: Start with free trials (many offer them for nonprofits). Input your profiles (e.g., "Foundations in [state] focused on environmental triumph stories"). Export lists with contact info. Budget: $100-500/month for paid access, but free versions exist for basics.Step 5: Similar Nonprofits' Sponsors and Donor Base.Research comparable nonprofits' public filings, like IRS Form 990s, to identify their sponsors and donors, then reach out to those as potential funders for you.Why it works: If they're supporting similar missions, they have proven affinity. This "competitive intelligence" can reveal overlooked prospects.How to execute: Use GuideStar or ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer to search 990s (free). Look for "Schedule B" for donor lists or annual reports for sponsors. Prioritize those in your location or categories. Outreach: "We admire your support for [similar nonprofit]—our work complements theirs in [way]."Now, here are additional steps I recommend based on effective fundraising strategies. These complement what you've outlined and can help you cast a wider net:Step 6: Networking Events and Partnerships.Attend or host industry conferences, webinars, local meetups, or chamber events to connect with prospects matching your profiles.Why it works: Face-to-face (or virtual) interactions build instant rapport, leading to organic referrals and partnerships.How to execute: Use Eventbrite or Meetup.com to find events (e.g., "Nonprofit networking in [city]"). Host your own free webinar on a topic tied to your mission (e.g., "Overcoming Addiction: Community Stories") and collect attendee info via registration. Partner with complementary orgs (e.g., a wellness center for your recovery nonprofit) for co-events and shared leads.Step 7: LinkedIn Advanced Searches.Leverage LinkedIn's free/paid search tools to find professionals, companies, and foundations matching your profiles.Why it works: LinkedIn has detailed filters for job titles, industries, locations, and connections, plus you can see mutual contacts for warm intros.How to execute: Search with keywords from your profiles (e.g., "CEO sustainable agriculture [state]"). Use Boolean operators (AND/OR). Connect with a note: "Saw your work in [field]—aligns with our mission." Upgrade to Premium for more filters if needed ($30/month).Step 8: Public Databases and Media Scans.Tap into free/public resources like Foundation Directory Online (FDO), GrantStation, or news archives to find funders.Why it works: These reveal grant histories, board members, and media mentions of potential funders active in your space.How to execute: FDO (library access often free) lets you filter by focus area and location. Use Google News alerts for "[cause] donors [location]" to spot announcements. For government agencies, check Grants.gov.Step 9: Content Marketing and Lead Magnets.Create valuable content (blogs, ebooks, videos) to attract prospects organically via SEO or shares.Why it works: Positions you as an expert, drawing in aligned funders who opt-in for more info.How to execute: Post on your site or Medium: "Top 5 Ways Businesses Benefit from Community Recovery Programs." Offer a free download (e.g., guide) in exchange for email. Promote via social or email newsletters.Step 10: Alumni and Affinity Groups.If applicable (e.g., for education or health nonprofits), tap into alumni networks, professional associations, or affinity groups (e.g., Rotary Clubs).Why it works: Shared experiences create instant affinity.How to execute: Use university alumni directories or groups like LinkedIn's alumni search. Attend meetings and pitch your profiles.One more tip: When you use the AI prompts from Step 1 (the three-prompt structure for each category), the responses will include built-in recommendations for deeper searches. For example, Prompt 3 often provides a "research checklist" with step-by-step actions like specific web/X searches, database queries, and prioritization filters. This can guide you to thousands more prospects—use it to refine these steps further.Now, let's shift to the list building itself—organizing all these new leads into a usable database. This is where your expansion efforts pay off: A well-structured list lets you track, prioritize, and engage efficiently. Don't just dump names in; include key details to make outreach personalized and effective.Why is detailed list building important? It turns raw leads into actionable insights—e.g., knowing a prospect's giving capacity helps tailor your ask. It also prevents duplicates, tracks progress (e.g., "Contacted? Donated?"), and supports reporting for your team or board.To brainstorm personally: Start with a blank sheet. List the columns you'll need based on your needs (more on that below). Import your initial 30-50 from Step 1 as a base, then add new ones as you find them. Dedicate 20-30 minutes weekly to updating.Key information to include in your list (organize as columns in a spreadsheet or CRM):<ul><li>Name: Full name of the individual or entity (e.g., "Jane Doe" or "EcoFoundation"). </li><li>Organization/Title: Company or role (e.g., "CEO, Wellness Inc.") for context. </li><li>Contact Details: Email, phone, LinkedIn profile, or mailing address—essential for outreach. </li><li>Location: City, state, or region—to prioritize local prospects or tailor messaging. </li><li>Category: From your eight (e.g., "Benefit" or "Triumph Over the Need") to segment by type. </li><li>Funding Type: Individual donor, major gift, corporate, grant, etc., from your Step 1 organization. </li><li>Connection: How you found them or mutual ties (e.g., "Referred by current donor" or "LinkedIn search"). </li><li>Giving Capacity/History: Estimated donation range (e.g., "$1K-$10K") based on tools like iWave or public data; note past gifts if known. </li><li>Propensity/Affinity: Ratings (high/medium/low) from profiles—why they're likely to give. </li><li>Notes: Custom details (e.g., "Interested in events" or "Benefits from our programs"). </li><li>Status/Next Action: Track progress (e.g., "Intro email sent" or "Schedule call"); include dates. </li><li>Source/Verification: Where you got the info (e.g., "iWave search" with link) for compliance. </li></ul>For tools to manage your list, start simple and scale. Use a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system to automate tracking, reminders, and reports—far better than scattered notes.Recommended CRMs:<ul><li>Excel or Google Sheets: Free and beginner-friendly. Create a spreadsheet with the columns above. Use filters/sorts for segmentation (e.g., sort by category). Shareable for teams. Drawback: Manual, no automation. </li><li>HubSpot CRM: Free for nonprofits (up to certain limits). Tracks contacts, emails, tasks, and deals. Integrates with your website for forms. Great for small teams starting out. </li><li>Bloomerang or Little Green Light: Affordable nonprofit-specific CRMs ($100-300/month). Focus on donor management, with built-in wealth screening and reporting. </li><li>Salesforce Nonprofit Cloud: Free for up to 10 users via their nonprofit program. Powerful for scaling, with custom fields and automation. Steeper learning curve. </li><li>DonorPerfect or NeonCRM: Paid options ($200+/month) with advanced features like event tracking and grant management. </li></ul>Choose based on size: Solos/startups = Sheets; Growing teams = HubSpot; Established = Salesforce.To build: Export data from searches (e.g., CSV from iWave), import into your tool. Clean regularly—remove bounces, update statuses. Comply with privacy (e.g., GDPR/CAN-SPAM)—get consent for outreach.By following these steps and building a detailed list, you'll have a fundraising machine. Integrate with your 4-step process: Use the list to assign prospects, execute engagements, and track results.Pause now, brainstorm one new step, and add columns to your sheet. If stuck, revisit AI prompts for checklists. You're building sustainability—keep going! If questions, email me at [your email]. See you in your funded future.

STEP 1 PART 2: Expanding Your List – Building a Detailed Database of Ideal Funders.

Before we dive in, let's set the stage. Fundraising isn't about begging for money—it's about forming genuine partnerships with people and organizations who share your vision or stand to gain from your work. The key to success is targeting the right funders from the start. Random outreach wastes time and energy. Instead, we're going to focus on ideal funders—those who have a natural connection to your mission, making them more likely to say yes.In this step, we'll explore eight categories of ideal funders. Why eight? Because these cover the full spectrum of potential supporters, from those closest to you to broader ecosystem players. The first category is your personal network, which we'll map out using a simple form I've created. The remaining seven are strategic categories: Benefit, Triumph Over the Need, Status, Interest, Mission Alignment, and Influence Multipliers. These categories are based on proven fundraising principles, drawing from years of experience helping nonprofits like yours raise millions.For each category, I'll explain what it means, why it's powerful, and how to brainstorm your own ideas. Then, I'll introduce how you can use AI to supercharge this process—by generating detailed profiles, organizing them into funding types, and even compiling real, verifiable lists of prospects. But first, you'll do some personal reflection to make this your own. By the end of this video, you'll have the tools to build a targeted list of 30 to 50 prospects, setting you up for the rest of the course.Let's start with the basics: What makes someone an "ideal funder"? Ideal funders aren't just wealthy—they have affinity (alignment with your cause), propensity (a history or likelihood of giving), and capacity (the resources to support you). They could be individuals, businesses, foundations, grantors, government agencies, or even other nonprofits. We'll profile them across these traits to ensure your list is high-quality.Category 1: Personal Network of the Founder and Board Members.This is your low-hanging fruit—the people already in your orbit. Your personal network includes family, friends, colleagues, alumni, past donors, volunteers, and connections from your board members. Why start here? These folks know and trust you, so conversion rates are high—often 20-30% higher than cold outreach.To brainstorm: Grab the Relationship/Network Mapping Form I've provided in the course materials. It's a simple worksheet where you list out categories like "Family &amp; Friends," "Professional Contacts," "Community Groups," and "Past Supporters." Spend 10-15 minutes jotting down names, emails, and why they might care about your mission. For example, if your nonprofit focuses on addiction recovery, note that uncle who overcame alcoholism or that colleague whose company has a wellness program.Once you've brainstormed, use AI to expand. You'll input your mission, location, and initial list into a prompt, and it can suggest additional connections or prioritize them based on affinity and capacity. Aim for 10-20 names here to kick off your list.Category 2: Benefit.These are funders who directly or indirectly benefit from your work. Think of them as ecosystem partners—your success makes their lives easier or more profitable. For instance, if your nonprofit provides job training for recovering individuals, local businesses benefit from a skilled workforce, or therapists gain from healthier communities.Why this category? Beneficiaries have skin in the game; they're motivated by tangible gains like cost savings, revenue boosts, or reputational enhancements.Brainstorm personally: Reflect on your programs. Who wins when you succeed? List direct beneficiaries (e.g., employers hiring your graduates), indirect ones (e.g., suppliers to those employers), and broader ecosystem players (e.g., government agencies reducing social service costs). Tailor to your location—focus on local or regional entities.Then, use AI: The first prompt will generate detailed profiles for individuals, businesses, grantors, etc., including characteristics, why they benefit, and search criteria. The second organizes them into funding types like individual donors or corporate sponsors. The third pulls real names with verification sources, helping you build 5-10 prospects per type.Category 3: Triumph Over the Need.These funders have overcome the exact challenge your nonprofit addresses. They've "triumphed" personally or organizationally—think recovered individuals starting businesses or agencies that solved similar issues through innovation.Why powerful? They give back from experience, driven by empathy and a desire to scale solutions. Their stories align emotionally with yours.Brainstorm: Think about success stories in your field. Who in your community has beaten addiction, escaped homelessness, or restored the environment? List individuals (e.g., alumni speakers) and entities (e.g., foundations founded by survivors).AI expansion: Prompts will profile them by triumph story, assess giving potential, and list verified examples with research checklists to find more.Category 4: Status.Status-driven funders seek recognition—enhancing their image through association with your cause. These are everyday folks or organizations wanting community respect, media mentions, or professional prestige.Why include them? Visibility motivates giving; offer naming rights or shoutouts, and they'll invest.Brainstorm: Who in your area craves spotlight? Local business owners sponsoring events, teachers seeking community hero status, or agencies wanting CSR cred.AI: Profiles highlight status motivations, with strategies to engage via high-visibility opportunities, and real examples to add to your list.Category 5: Interest.These have a demonstrated curiosity or stake in your cause—perhaps through professional involvement or personal passion, without necessarily benefiting directly.Why? Their active interest means quicker buy-in; they're already engaged in similar issues.Brainstorm: List professionals (e.g., nurses interested in recovery) or organizations (e.g., research firms in your field). Focus on those attending events or advocating online.AI: Generates interest-driven profiles, verified lists, and engagement paths.Category 6: Mission Alignment.Funders whose goals directly match or complement yours—shared values make partnerships natural.Why? Alignment leads to long-term support; they're in it for the impact, not just tax breaks.Brainstorm: Review your mission statement. Who else pursues similar outcomes? Counselors aligning with recovery, or eco-groups with conservation.AI: Details overlapping missions, with tables of real aligned entities.Category 7: Influence Multipliers.These amplify your reach—connectors with networks, like influencers or media outlets who can spread your message.Why? One partnership here can unlock dozens more; leverage their platforms for exponential growth.Brainstorm: Identify local leaders, social media personalities, or agencies with broad influence in your niche.AI: Profiles influence channels, lists verified multipliers, and strategies to collaborate.Category 8: Capacity Builders.These are high-capacity funders focused on building infrastructure—think large foundations or government programs investing in your growth.Why? They provide big wins to launch campaigns.Brainstorm: List entities with deep pockets aligned to your scale needs.AI: Similar profiling and listing. Now, putting it all together: Your goal is a list of 30-50 prospects. Start with personal brainstorming across categories—spend 30-60 minutes. Then, use the AI prompts (which we'll detail in the workbook) to expand. The three-prompt structure: 1) Detailed profiles by type (individuals, businesses, etc.). 2) Organize into funding types (e.g., major gifts, grants). 3) Generate real, verifiable names with sources.Remember, quality over quantity—prioritize based on affinity, propensity, and capacity. Track in a simple spreadsheet: Name, Category, Contact Info, Why Ideal.By completing this, you're not just listing names—you're building relationships that fuel your mission. In the next steps, we'll turn this into a plan, team, and launch.Pause here, grab your form, and brainstorm. When ready, use the AI prompts. If you have questions, drop them in the comments. Let's make your nonprofit unstoppable! See you in Step 2. <a data-mce-href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DcJ3pGMYw7JmnHdZHWDNOtZ3tfSjzoPO4Wr45rW7wao/edit?usp=sharing" href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DcJ3pGMYw7JmnHdZHWDNOtZ3tfSjzoPO4Wr45rW7wao/edit?usp=sharing">=&gt; RELATIONSHIP MAPPING FORM AND EMAIL TEMPLATE</a><a data-mce-href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/19hKE6vhI6Z42vE2Fu2EWRPDkOuReZpws0Ylxah7PtHQ/edit?usp=sharing" href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/19hKE6vhI6Z42vE2Fu2EWRPDkOuReZpws0Ylxah7PtHQ/edit?usp=sharing">=&gt; ACCESS THE AI PROMPTS</a>

Welcome to Step 1 of our 4-Step Fundraising Course: Identify and Build Your First List of Ideal Funders.

<h2>Understanding Nonprofit Board Development</h2>
When it comes to nonprofit organizations, board development is a crucial aspect that can significantly impact the success and sustainability of the organization. However, there are several common misconceptions that can hinder effective board development and governance. In this blog post, we will debunk some of these myths and provide clarity on what board development truly entails.

<h3>Misconception 1: Board Development Is Only About Recruiting Members</h3>
One of the most prevalent misconceptions is that board development solely focuses on recruiting new members. While recruitment is a vital part of the process, it's only one piece of the puzzle. Effective board development involves ongoing education, engagement, and evaluation of existing board members to ensure they are aligned with the organization's mission and values.
<figure id="figure-1tt61shnqmmc9954ta"><img id="1tt61shnqmmc9954ta" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1094067118/photo/chalk-lightbulbs-and-the-message-apply-now-on-a-chalkboard.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=lNNd1mxtlHMG7dhbv25v1ZzcKilLDasRmhzjSBMd4ho=" alt="board recruitment" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

In addition to recruiting new members, it's essential to provide continuous training and development opportunities for current board members. This ensures they are up-to-date with the latest trends, challenges, and best practices in the nonprofit sector. By investing in the growth of current board members, organizations can enhance their overall effectiveness and impact.

<h3>Misconception 2: Board Members Don't Need Formal Training</h3>
Another common myth is that board members, especially those with prior experience, do not require formal training. This couldn't be further from the truth. Each nonprofit is unique, with its own set of challenges and strategic goals. Therefore, it's crucial that board members receive tailored training to understand the specific needs and objectives of the organization they serve.
<figure id="figure-onwfp96pcmmc9954ta"><img id="onwfp96pcmmc9954ta" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2173915109/photo/skill-competency-development-concept-up-new-ability-skill-training-for-technology-evolution.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=QQ_ddW_57krjfmR146Gp-Cz6pCYYkfubnKOJwEeDpZI=" alt="training session" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

Formal training programs can cover areas such as governance best practices, financial oversight, strategic planning, and fundraising strategies. These sessions not only equip board members with essential skills but also foster a sense of community and shared purpose within the board.

<h3>Misconception 3: A Large Board Ensures Better Decision-Making</h3>
It's a common belief that having a larger board will automatically lead to more effective decision-making. However, this is not always the case. While a diverse range of perspectives is beneficial, too many voices can sometimes lead to inefficiencies and prolonged decision-making processes.

The key is finding a balance between having enough members to provide varied insights and keeping the group manageable to facilitate effective collaboration and communication. A well-structured, smaller board with clearly defined roles and responsibilities can often achieve more productive outcomes.
<figure id="figure-r27ay3ku6mc9954ta"><img id="r27ay3ku6mc9954ta" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2189621574/photo/multiethnic-group-of-businesspeople-brainstorming-and-strategizing-in-a-meeting.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=QnQ5qhgNHoiZ_bTSL1CBKUlqmZ10l2YSpotNuKOP-wY=" alt="board meeting" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h3>Misconception 4: Board Members Should Focus Solely on Fundraising</h3>
While fundraising is an essential responsibility of board members, it should not be their sole focus. Effective board governance encompasses a wide range of duties, including setting strategic direction, ensuring financial sustainability, and overseeing organizational performance.

Board members should be actively involved in understanding and contributing to the overall mission and strategy of the nonprofit. By doing so, they can make informed decisions that align with the organization's long-term goals and create a more significant impact in their communities.

<h2>Conclusion: Embracing Comprehensive Board Development</h2>
In conclusion, understanding the nuances of board development is vital for nonprofit success. By debunking these common misconceptions, organizations can foster a more effective, engaged, and strategically aligned board. Prioritizing ongoing education, balanced recruitment, and a holistic approach to governance will ultimately lead to stronger leadership and greater impact in achieving their mission.

The Nonprofit Strategist

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