Foundation proposals play a key role in the fundraising process.  But how can you make your proposal stand out?  Here are three quick tips to help make the proposal process rewarding for your organization. #1 – Focus more on knowledge of YOUR OWN organization, rather than fretting over deep research about the foundation. They know […]

“Where do we start?” I get asked that a lot when it comes to annual fund strategy.  The annual fund can be a challenging part of the fundraising plan, but if you have the right strategy in place, it can be a huge benefit for your organization.  Here are three tips you can use as […]

Last month, I visited Columbus, Ohio, to spend some time with my friend John Millen preparing for our new course, “Storytelling For Analytical Leaders.”  We had a great time and are both so excited to roll out the program in Las Vegas this week! This workshop addresses the skills necessary to tell your organization’s story […]

Happy 2016! What would a strong, vibrant board mean for your organization?  If yours is like most nonprofits, a healthy board indicates the health of the entire enterprise.  Let’s start the new year by exploring a trend, a tip and a FREE tool to guide you toward a more effective board. The Trend:  More accountability in […]

As I look to the new year, I’m struck with the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.  2016 is shaping up to be one of the best years yet, and I want to share a few things I’m especially excited about: Storytelling for Analytical Leaders – As you might have seen, my friend John Millen and […]

2015 is quickly winding to a close, and 2016, filled with exciting opportunities, is just over the horizon!  I hope you’re as excited about next year as I am. Here’s what I’m up to for the next few months.  I’m still accepting speaking engagements for next year, but I wanted to give you a look […]

Is it time? At this point in your conversation with a prospect, you’ve carefully asked your way up the first 9 steps, gathering insight into your donor’s heart.  The last step should be easy! Step 10 may be obvious.  In the video, I wrap up the series with the final question you’ve been waiting for.  […]

The holidays are such a busy time. This week you might be traveling to visit family, preparing your home to host loved ones, or getting ready to brave the crowds and the cold for those Black Friday deals.  In the midst of it all, sometimes it’s hard to even remember why we’re celebrating. Before the […]

Do donors make big gift decisions alone?  Sometimes yes.  Sometimes no.  Often a spouse, family member, business partner, trusted adviser, or others need to be consulted first.  As a fundraiser, how would you know? I’m sure it comes as no surprise for me to suggest that you . . . ask. Step 9 is Asking […]

Yes – you do get paid for telling stories!  We all do . . . but only if we do it well. Maybe you’re the numbers person.  Perhaps you’re the one others turn to for advice when analyzing a problem.  You might be in finance, engineering, business management, or one of the sciences.  Maybe you’re […]