The Small Nonprofit

Send us a text In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria chats with Matt Diamante, founder of Hey Tony, a digital marketing agency specializing in SEO, social media, and online advertising. They dive into practical ways nonprofits can improve their digital presence, implement effective marketing funnels, rank higher in search results, and increase conversions. Matt shares actionable tips on how nonprofits can make the most of their websites, email lists, and social platforms to attract and retain donors. Key Topics Covered: What is SEO and why it matters for nonprofitsAuthenticity in digital communicationMaximizing your email listLeveraging peer support and communitiesQuotable Quotes: “Show up every day. Over time, you’ll become known as the go-to organization in your space.” Actionable Tips: ➜ Start small with funnels: Focus on one key action like collecting email addresses before scaling up to complex strategies. ➜ Provide value first: Share free resources or tools to build trust and keep your audience engaged. ➜ Consistency is key: Post regularly on social media and send frequent, purpose-driven emails. Resources Mentioned: Hey Tony WebsiteFree SEO Course by Matt DiamanteHey Tony InsidersConnect with Us: MariaSubscribe and Review: Don’t forget to subscribe to The Small Nonprofit Podcast on your favorite platform! Leave a review to help us reach more listeners and continue providing valuable insights. Watch this episode on YouTube. Support the Podcast: Support these conversations by donating here. Coming Next Week: We are bringing back some banger episodes! We will be re-sharing some of our favourite episodes this month, and have some special new formats planned for 2025! Support the show

Send us a text In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria is joined by Kimberley McKenzie, a seasoned charity executive turned leadership coach, to discuss the urgent need for wellness in the nonprofit sector. From her journey as a nonprofit leader to her current work coaching charity executives around the globe, Kimberley shares actionable insights on fostering a culture of well-being and trust in mission-driven organizations. Key Topics Covered: The human resource crisis in nonprofitsThe four C’s framework for high-performing teams Prioritizing wellness cultureActionable Tips: ➜ Invest in coaching: Support managers with coaching to improve team performance and workplace culture. ➜ Adopt trauma-informed practices: Recognize and address the emotional well-being of your team. ➜ Embed wellness in strategy: Align organizational priorities and budgets with the well-being of your staff. Resources Mentioned: Kimberley McKenzie WebsiteWhy Well-Being is a SkillWhen the Body Says No: The Cost of Hidden StressTrauma Informed LeadershipConnect with Us: Maria RioKimberley McKenzieSubscribe and Review: Don’t forget to subscribe to The Small Nonprofit Podcast on your favorite platform! Leave a review to help us reach more listeners and continue providing valuable insights. Watch this episode on YouTube. Support the Podcast: Support these conversations by donating here. Coming Next Week: Join us next week as Matt Diamante of 'HeyTony' reveals how nonprofits can ditch rigid marketing for genuine connections, build community with DIY strategies, and get real results by focusing on what works best—even on a tight budget. Support the show

Send us a text In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, host Maria welcomes Nicole from Canada Helps and Sam from Apathy Is Boring to discuss the latest trends in giving and civic engagement. They dive into findings from Canada Helps' 2024 Giving Report, exploring the challenges nonprofits face in engaging donors amid rising disconnection, financial stress, and generational shifts. Together, they share actionable insights on how charities can adapt and foster community impact despite these trends. Key Topics Covered: 2024 Canada Helps Giving Report highlightsYouth engagement and civic participationImpact of economic challenges and wealth inequality on givingQuotable Quotes: “Giving is a form of civic engagement, right? It's a way of sharing... And so when you look at it in that broader framework, you've got, obviously, the treasures, the giving, the philanthropic sort of contributions that citizens can make to issues they care about.”“When you are cultivating your donors or your supporters in any sort of way, how can you get those community activations and build that community? It doesn’t need to be an extra project... but it can be built into the work you’re already doing.” Actionable Tips: ➜ Leverage monthly giving: consider encouraging monthly donations to provide stable, recurring support. ➜ Highlight impact: show donors exactly how their contributions make a difference in their community. ➜ Engage young people on their terms: tap into platforms like TikTok to connect with younger audiences and address their interest in accessible, transparent impact. ➜ Focus on community connections: creating opportunities for meaningful interactions between donors and beneficiaries can boost engagement, especially in an increasingly disconnected world. Resources Mentioned: CanadaHelps Giving Report (2024)CanadaHelps WebsiteApathy is Boring WebsiteApathy is Boring: The FEEDApathy is Boring ResourcesApathy is Boring's 20th AnniversaryConnect with Us: MariaNicole DanesiSam ReuschSubscribe and Review: Don’t forget to subscribe to The Small Nonprofit Podcast on your favorite platform! Leave a review to help us reach more listeners and continue providing valuable insights. Watch this episode on YouTube. Support the Podcast: Support these conversations by donating here. Coming Next Week: Join us next week as Kimberley Mackenzie shares her expertise on how prioritizing team well-being can transform your nonprofit, prevent burnout, and create a resilient, values-driven culture. Support the show

Send us a text In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria chats with Rachel Bearbower, founder of Small Shop Strategies and the Nonprofit Automation Agency, about using automation to streamline nonprofit operations and build authentic donor relationships. Rachel breaks down how automation tools can help nonprofits stay connected with donors, reduce repetitive tasks, and free up time for more impactful work. Key Topics Covered: The value of automation in donor retentionPersonalized gratitude at scaleBuilding relationship equityAutomation tools and tipsQuotable Quotes: " You’re still a human sending to another human. You wrote it once, and now it’s sending it many times. Or making it happen many times." " The first 100 days of your donor’s experience has got to be top-notch. Automation can really help you out." Actionable Tips: ➜ Automate donor welcome series: set up a welcome email series for new donors, ensuring they feel immediately connected. ➜ Organize follow-ups with tools like FollowUpThen: automate follow-ups on donor conversations or tasks by setting reminders that pop back up when it’s time to reconnect. ➜ Optimize your tech stack: regularly audit your tech tools, ensuring they’re integrated and serve your organization’s needs. Consider connecting with experts like Rachel for a tech audit if you're unsure where to start. Resources Mentioned: Nonprofit Automation AgencySmall Shop StrategiesConnect with Us: MariaRachel BearbowerSubscribe and Review: Don’t forget to subscribe to The Small Nonprofit Podcast on your favorite platform! Leave a review to help us reach more listeners and continue providing valuable insights. Watch this episode on YouTube. Support the Podcast: Support these conversations by donating here. Coming Next Week: Join us next week as Nicole Danesi and Sam Reusch dig into why connection matters for donor engagement, how equitable RFPs could transform partnerships, and practical ways to strengthen community impact. Support the show

Send us a text In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria sits down with Heather Nelson, founder of Bridge Raise, to explore how small nonprofits can build successful corporate partnerships. They discuss common challenges, the importance of aligning values, and how nonprofits can confidently approach corporate funders, even small organizations. This episode provides essential strategies for nonprofits wanting to build meaningful corporate connections. Key Topics Covered: Building confidence and focusing on relationshipsThe role of employee engagement in partnershipsThe value of persistence and networkingActionable Tips: ➜ Start with a clear vision: Define what a successful corporate partnership looks like for your organization. Write it down and build your strategy around this vision. ➜ Offer value beyond funding: Know what you can offer to corporates—employee engagement, volunteerism, or brand alignment—and be clear about what you’re willing to provide. ➜ Prioritize persistence: Follow up with corporates consistently, and don’t give up after one email. Corporate partnerships take time, but persistence often pays off. Resources Mentioned: WebsiteHard Questions WorkbookConnect with Us: MariaHeatherSubscribe and Review: Don’t forget to subscribe to The Small Nonprofit Podcast on your favorite platform! Leave a review to help us reach more listeners and continue providing valuable insights. Watch this episode on YouTube. Support the Podcast: Support these conversations by donating here. Coming Next Week: Join us next week as Rachel Bearbower, CEO of Small Shop Strategies, shares how nonprofits can use automation to boost revenue, improve donor retention, and create a sustainable impact! Support the show

Send us a text In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria chats with Rhea Wong, a major gift fundraising expert and former nonprofit Executive Director, about building trust with major donors, consent-based fundraising, and the shifting philanthropic landscape. Rhea shares her experience navigating donor relationships, building trust, and tips for creating a successful major gifts program. Key Topics Covered: Building trust in major gift fundraisingConsent-based fundraisingNavigating difficult conversations with donorsEmpathy and understanding generational differencesStarting a major gifts programQuotable Quotes: "Fundraising is not about closing gifts; it's about opening relationships.""You need to ask for consent before you consider someone a prospect. Just because you have their contact information doesn’t mean they’re ready to give."Actionable Tips: ➜ Ask for consent: Before considering someone as a major gift prospect, ensure you have their consent to engage in deeper conversations. Use surveys and personal interactions to learn about their interests and how they’d like to be involved. ➜ Treat donors as partners: Build relationships based on trust and transparency. Engage donors as equal partners in your mission, focusing on long-term relationships rather than one-time transactions. ➜ Have tough conversations: Don’t shy away from discussing difficult topics like systemic issues or organizational challenges. Addressing these openly can deepen donor trust and lead to stronger partnerships. ➜ Start with strong annual giving: Before jumping into major gift fundraising, ensure your annual donor program is solid. This will give you a foundation of consistent support and help identify engaged donors who could become major prospects. ➜ Be intentional and proactive: Approach donor relationships with a clear plan. Define what an ideal major gift partnership looks like for your organization and communicate that vision early in conversations with donors. Resources Mentioned: WebsiteGet That Money, Honey: The No-BS Guide to Raising Money for Your Nonprofit.Ways To Work with Me QuizConnect with Us: MariaRhea WongSubscribe and Review: Don’t forget to subscribe to The Small Nonprofit Podcast on your favorite platform! Leave a review to help us reach more listeners and continue providing valuable insights. Watch this episode on YouTube. Support the Podcast: Support these conversations by donating here. Coming Next Week: Join us next week as Heather Nelson shares how nonprofits can build values-aligned corporate partnerships by confidently articulating their goals and embracing tough conversations for stronger collaborations. Support the show

Send us a text In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria Bryan shares her best tips for trauma-informed storytelling. She explains the importance of being sensitive to both the storyteller and the audience, emphasizing ethical practices. Both Maria’s share practical tips for conducting interviews with grace and care, as well as strategies for emotional self-care and processing difficult stories. Have you encountered challenges in telling sensitive stories? We would love to hear your thoughts and experiences, and how you've handled those situations! Key Topics Covered: Trauma-informed storytellingSetting boundariesGrounding techniquesHarm repair plansQuotable Quotes: "When sharing sensitive stories, always prioritize consent and ensure you're creating a safe space for both the storyteller and the audience.""Mistakes happen, but the key is to acknowledge them, repair the harm, and learn how to do better next time.""You can’t pour from an empty cup—storytellers need to take care of themselves first to continue creating impactful narratives." Actionable Tips: ➜ Create a harm repair plan: Always have a plan in place to address. Include steps for pausing, apologizing, and collaborating on next steps. ➜ Use grounding techniques: During difficult interviews, use sensory objects or boundaries to help regulate emotions and maintain composure. ➜ Incorporate breaks: Schedule time for breaks during emotionally intense interviews to process emotions and give yourself space to reset. Resources Mentioned: WebsiteTrauma-Informed Storytelling ToolkitWhen Bearing Witness Podcast10 Dignified Storytelling QuestionsConnect with Us: MariaMaria BryanSubscribe and Review: Don’t forget to subscribe to The Small Nonprofit Podcast on your favorite platform! Leave a review to help us reach more listeners and continue providing valuable insights. Watch this episode on YouTube. Coming Next Week: Join us next week as we talk to Rhea Wong about helping nonprofits raise more money through major giving programs and building the next generation of fundraising leaders. Support the show

Send us a text In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria chats with Sarah Ali, a digital-first fundraiser and founder of SA Digital, about Muslim philanthropy, digital mobilization, and how nonprofits can engage diverse communities through culturally competent fundraising strategies. Sarah shares her expertise on leveraging digital tools like WhatsApp and her insights on the growing role of Muslim giving in the nonprofit space. Key Topics Covered: Actionable Tips: Build culturally competent messaging:Focus on hope-based communications: Innovate through cultural campaigns:Resources Mentioned: WebsiteWebsiteConnect with Us: MariaSarahTune in to this insightful episode to learn how nonprofits can embrace digital tools and cultural competency to strengthen their donor base and engage meaningfully with diverse communities. Subscribe and Review: Don’t forget to subscribe to The Small Nonprofit Podcast on your favorite platform. Please leave a review to help us reach more listeners and continue to provide valuable insights for nonprofit leaders. Coming Next Week: Join us next week as we talk about trauma-informed storytelling with Maria Bryan! Support the show

Send us a text In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria talks with Kamilah Martin, founder and CEO of Katalyst, about nonprofits adapting to the future of work. They discuss evolving work models, remote and hybrid setups, and innovative leadership strategies. Kamilah shares her journey from nonprofit executive to consultant and offers insights on piloting new initiatives, shared leadership, and overcoming resistance to change. Tune in for practical tips on how nonprofits can embrace the future of work. Have you seen organizations successfully embracing innovation? Maria and Kamilah want to hear about them! Reach out and share your examples so we can highlight them on the podcast and learn from these organizations. Key Topics: Quotable Moments: "We existed a certain way because that's all we knew. But COVID forced us to rethink that — and that opened up so many opportunities for innovation.""Innovation for innovation's sake isn't enough. What are your goals? How do you evaluate if your pilot actually achieves what you want?""Nonprofits that innovate now will thrive in the next 20 years. Those that don’t will get left behind."Actionable Tips: ➜ Embrace Flexible Work Models: Involve program and admin staff in discussions on remote work equity, and find ways to offer flexibility, even to those in roles requiring in-person work (e.g., alternating schedules). ➜ Pilot Innovations with Clear Goals: Establish a finite timeline for pilots with an evaluation period at the end to determine if adjustments are needed. ➜ Leverage External Expertise: Don’t try to solve complex problems alone—engage consultants or experts in areas like change management, technology, or HR for quicker solutions. Connect with Us: MariaKamilahWebsiteSubscribe and Review: Don’t forget to subscribe to The Small Nonprofit Podcast on your favorite platform. Please leave a review to help us reach more listeners and continue to provide valuable insights for nonprofit leaders. Coming Next Week: Join us next week with fundraising expert, Rhea Wong, as she shares how to build successful major gifts programs and boost your donations! Support the show

Send us a text In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria sits down with Nina Horvath, Executive Director of the Coastal Jazz and Blues Society. Nina shares her insights into the fractional fundraising model, the benefits it has brought to her organization, and the challenges faced in arts fundraising. Together, they explore how fractional fundraising offers smaller nonprofits access to high-level fundraising expertise without the challenges of hiring a full-time development director. Key Topics: Quotable Moments: "The beauty of fractional fundraising is that you get the expertise you need at a fraction of the cost, which is perfect for small to mid-sized nonprofits""As an ED, it can feel isolating. Having a fractional fundraiser who understands my challenges and offers valuable, outside perspective has been a personal and professional support""We didn’t expect to double our individual giving in a year, but with a strategic approach and fresh ideas, we made it happen"Actionable Tips: ➜ Consider Outsourced Supports: If you’re a small to mid-sized nonprofit struggling to find a full-time development director, fractional fundraising could give you access to senior-level expertise without breaking the bank. ➜ Set Realistic Expectations: Don’t expect to raise a million dollars overnight. Success in fundraising is about building momentum and balancing both short-term wins and long-term goals. ➜ Leverage the Expertise of a Fractional Fundraiser: Fractional fundraisers work with multiple organizations, which allows them to offer fresh insights and best practices from across the nonprofit sector. Connect with Us: MariaNinaWebsiteSubscribe and Review: Don’t forget to subscribe to The Small Nonprofit Podcast on your favorite platform. Please leave a review to help us reach more listeners and continue to provide valuable insights for nonprofit leaders. Coming Next Week: Join Maria as she discusses the future of work in the nonprofit sector with Kamilah Martin! Support the show

Send us a text In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria sits down with Quilen Blackwell, President and co-founder of Chicago Eco House and Southside Blooms. Quilen shares his remarkable journey of founding and growing a nonprofit with a thriving $2 million social enterprise. With a focus on sustainability, community development, and economic resilience, Quilen offers invaluable tips for nonprofits looking to scale effectively. Key Topics: Quotable Moments: “As a nonprofit, we didn’t want to be dependent on a few big donors telling us what to do. Running it like a serious business gave us the freedom to stay true to our mission.”“Focus on the foundation of the business, not just the money. If you’re not ready to handle growth, it can quickly turn from a blessing into a burden.”“Our flowers are our ambassadors. They go into spaces we can’t, and they open doors we never expected.”Actionable Tips: ➜ Start Small: Focus on building a solid foundation before scaling. Test your ideas on a smaller scale to work out any kinks and ensure your model is sustainable. ➜ Invest in Technology: Use technology to streamline operations and customer service, especially when managing a social enterprise. Tools like Routific for route optimization can be game changers in last-mile delivery ➜ Leverage Customer Relationships: Turn customers into donors by integrating donation opportunities into your sales process and engaging them through events like farm tours. ➜ Do B2B and B2C: Diversify your income streams by engaging in both B2B and B2C models. This approach not only stabilizes revenue but also opens unexpected doors for media coverage and large grants. ➜ Prepare for Growth: As your organization scales, be ready to tackle complex challenges, including human resources, compliance, and maintaining quality across a growing operation. Connect with Us: MariaPersonal Instagram,Southside Blooms,Chicago Eco HouseWebsiteWebsiteSupport the Podcast: The Small NonprofitYouTubeYouTubehereWhat’s next? Don’t forget to tune into next week’s episode where we chat about the pros and cons of hiring a Fractional Fundraiser with Nina Horvath! Support the show

Send us a text In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria speaks with Kathryn LeBlanc, a communications consultant specializing in social impact. Kathryn shares valuable insights on the importance of clear, concise messaging for nonprofits, and how to effectively communicate your organization’s mission. Key Topics: The Importance of Clear MessagingOperationalizing CommunicationsDeveloping Key MessagesIdentifying and Targeting AudiencesBuilding Internal CapacityQuotable Moment: "A good message should be concise, rooted in emotion, and something people will actually repeat."Actionable Tips: ➜ Create a Message Guide and Communication Strategy: These documents should be separate, clear, and shared consistently across your team. ➜ Focus on Building Internal Cohesion: A well-aligned team is better equipped to handle both day-to-day communications and unexpected crises. ➜ Develop a Crisis Communications Plan: Create a plan outlining how your organization will respond to incidents, emergencies, and crises. Assign roles, establish protocols, and train your team regularly to ensure a swift, unified response when needed. Resources Mentioned: Kathryn LeBlanc's Communications Consulting FirmDownloadable Communication Strategy TemplateConnect with Us: MariaKathrynSubscribe and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to The Small Nonprofit on YouTube, and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us create better content and reach more listeners like you. Watch this episode on YouTube. Support the Podcast: Support these conversations by becoming a member here. Next Episode Teaser: Stay tuned for next week as we crack the code on starting a social enterprise with Quilen Blackwell! Support the show

Send us a text In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria interviews Carmen Randolph, the CEO and President of the Women’s Foundation of the South (WFS). Carmen shares her insights into the unique challenges faced by nonprofits in the Southern United States, especially those led by and serving women and girls of color. The conversation covers the historical and systemic issues affecting philanthropy in the South, the growing legal challenges against organizations that prioritize marginalized communities, and the importance of trust-based philanthropy. Carmen emphasizes the need for Southern nonprofits to diversify their funding sources, engage in proactive donor education, and prepare for potential legal challenges in the wake of recent shifts in U.S. policy and law. Key Topics: Legal Challenges and Affirmative Action: Philanthropy in the Southern U.S.: Donor Education and Engagement: Quotable Moments: "Women and girls of color receive the smallest share of philanthropic investment in the U.S., and we are seeking to change that trend."Actionable Tips: ➜ Engage in Legal Preparedness: Nonprofits should conduct legal reviews of their operations and documents to prepare for potential lawsuits, especially those focused on racial equity. ➜ Proactively Educate Donors: Engage donors about the importance of continued support for marginalized communities and the potential challenges your organization may face due to shifting legal landscapes. ➜ Diversify Funding Streams: Look at your nonprofit's work through various lenses to attract funding from different sources. Resources Mentioned: WebsiteReportConnect with Us: MariaCarmenSubscribe and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to The Small Nonprofit on YouTube, and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us create better content and reach more listeners like you. Watch this episode on YouTube. Support the Podcast: Support these conversations by donating here. Next Episode Teaser: Join us next week as we dive into a conversation on effective communications with Kathryn LeBlanc! Don’t miss it! Support the show

Send us a text Key Episode Highlights: Trust-Based Philanthropy Challenging Outdated Norms Donor-Nonprofit Partnerships Quotable Moments: "I believe in the nonprofits we fund. They know better than I do where the money needs to go." "We need to move away from this idea that nonprofit staff should be underpaid. It's time to invest in the people who make change happen." "If nonprofits across the country could standardize a percentage of donations for admin costs, it would be a game changer for the sector."Actionable Tips: ➜ Include Admin Costs in Funding Requests: Nonprofits should automatically include a percentage for administrative expenses in donor agreements. ➜ Trust Grantees' Expertise: Funders should trust that nonprofits know best how to allocate resources and should avoid imposing restrictions that hinder their effectiveness. ➜ Educate Donors on Real Needs: Nonprofits should feel empowered to educate donors about the importance of funding operational costs and negotiate for the support they truly need. Resources Mentioned: The Philanthropy WorkshopBookFilmConnect with Us: MariaThe Sprott Foundation Subscribe and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to The Small Nonprofit on YouTube, and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us create better content and reach more listeners like you. Support the Podcast: Consider supporting the podcast by subscribing here. Don’t forget to become a supporter of our show! Watch this episode on Youtube. Next Episode Teaser: Join us next week as we discuss systemic change and the effects of whitelash with Carmen Randolph. Don’t miss it! Support the show

Send us a text In this episode of The Small Nonprofit, Maria sits down with Roz Zavras, founder of the Center for Community Collaboration (C3) and CEO of Aropa Consulting. Roz shares her unique approach to supporting community-based nonprofits, particularly those led by people of colour or individuals with lived experience. Through C3, Roz is finding innovative ways to foster collaboration, provide essential services, and break down the silos that often hinder nonprofits from achieving their full potential. She talks about collaborative fundraising events and sharing HR or bookkeeping services. Key Topics: The Vision Behind C3Collaborative Fundraising EventsBuilding Trust Among NonprofitsShared Services Model Quotable Moments: Actionable Tips: Leverage Collaboration for Greater ImpactFocus on Donor EducationEmbrace an Abundance Mindset Resources Mentioned: Center for Community Collaboration WebsiteCommunity-Centric Fundraising Principles Connect with Us: Connect with MariaConnect with Roz Center for Community Collaboration LinkTree Subscribe and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to The Small Nonprofit on YouTube, and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us create better content and reach more listeners like you. Watch this episode on YouTube. Support the Podcast: Consider supporting the podcast by subscribing here. Next Episode Teaser: Join us next week as we dive into the world of trust-based philanthropy with Juliana Sprott, another member of The Sprott Foundation. Don’t miss it! Support the show

Send us a text In this episode of The Small Nonprofit, Maria welcomes Vu Le, a prominent voice in the nonprofit sector and the writer behind the influential blog Nonprofit AF. Known for his humor and sharp insights, Vu discusses his journey from “aspiring to be a doctor” to becoming a leader in community-centric fundraising and nonprofit advocacy. He shares his thoughts on the systemic issues within traditional fundraising practices, the importance of ethical storytelling, and the need for nonprofits to engage in advocacy for systemic change. Vu's unique perspective and unwavering commitment to equity and justice provide invaluable lessons for anyone involved in the nonprofit sector. Key Topics: The Role of Humor in Nonprofit WorkCommunity-Centric Fundraising (CCF)Systemic Issues and AdvocacyFuture Vision for the SectorQuotable Moments: Resources Mentioned: Nonprofit AF BlogCommunity-Centric Fundraising PrinciplesCrappy Funding PracticesThe Slavery of our Times by Leo Tolstoy For personalized fundraising advice and strategies tailored to your organization's needs, contact Maria Rio or Further Together Fundraising. Together, we can create impactful, equitable, and community-focused fundraising strategies. Connect with Us: Connect with MariaTwitter,LinkedIn,Facebook,InstagramNonprofit AF WebsiteSubscribe and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to The Small Nonprofit on Youtube, and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us create better content and reach more listeners like you. Support the Podcast: Consider supporting the podcast by donating here. Next Episode Teaser: Join us next week as we talk with Roz Zavras about the Center for Community Collaboration. Don’t miss it! Support the show

Send us a text How can we shift power dynamics in philanthropy and create more equitable partnerships between funders and nonprofits? In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, I chat with Megan Lorius, the Managing Director at the Sprott Foundation, a Toronto-based foundation that grants funds to organizations seeking to solve hunger and homelessness. We dive into the principles of trust-based philanthropy and how the Sprott Foundation, as a funder, applies them to build strong, equitable relationships with grantees. Megan shares valuable insights and advice for both funders and fundraisers on how to create a more collaborative and impactful philanthropic landscape. Key Episode Highlights: Soliciting and Acting on Feedback: Transparency and Open Dialogue: Shifting Power Dynamics: Don’t forget to become a supporter of our show! Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/3rfg-E_V464 Links and Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-lorius-a6894211/https://www.sprottfoundation.com/http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/ https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newSupport the show

Send us a text How can we create a more equitable and just nonprofit sector? In this episode of The Small Nonprofit, we chat with Chris Talbot-Heindl, a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in the nonprofit world. Chris shares their personal experiences and insights on the challenges and opportunities facing nonprofits today, particularly in the areas of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (JEDI). We explore the challenges faced by BIPOC individuals in predominantly white-led organizations and the importance of moving beyond performative allyship to achieve real, transformative change. Chris provides actionable advice for fostering a more inclusive and equitable nonprofit sector. They emphasize the significance of community-based learning, emotional regulation, and collective responsibility in dismantling systemic inequities. Chris's personal experiences and insights offer valuable lessons for nonprofit leaders, staff, and board members alike, reminding us that the path to collective liberation requires ongoing commitment, education, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. Key Highlights: The Importance of Community: The Power of Emotional Regulation:The Need for Transformational Change:The Role of Cultural Competency:Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/Kb4NSqOS1w0 Links and Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christalbotheindl/https://www.talbot-heindl.com/https://tapas.io/episode/3152530https://x.com/talbot_heindlhttps://www.instagram.com/talbot_heindl/https://jedicollaborative.com/http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/ https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newSupport the show

Send us a text In a world where trust is paramount, how can small nonprofits ensure they're not just talking the talk, but walking the walk? In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, I chat with Rickesh Lakhani, founder of Radiance Advisory, about the importance of aligning actions with values in the nonprofit sector. We delve into the challenges of upholding stated values, especially during leadership transitions, and the significance of creating a culture of trust and truth within organizations. Rickesh shares insights on how to identify and bridge the gap between an organization's stated values and its actual practices, emphasizing the importance of feedback, vulnerability, and accountability. Key Highlights: Aligning Actions with Values: Identifying Organizational Values:Creating a Culture of Trust and Truth: The Role of Leadership: Measuring Cultural Change:Don’t forget to become a supporter of our show! Links and Resources: https://www.radianceadvisory.com/https://ca.linkedin.com/in/rickeshlakhanihttps://x.com/ConstantChangeshttp://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/ https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newSpeak-Up Culture: When Leaders Truly Listen, People Step UpSupport the show

Send us a text Do you find it challenging to connect with your donors on a deeper level and turn one-time gifts into lasting relationships? In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, we dive into the world of donor community building with Owen O'Doherty, the CEO of DonorSee. Owen shares his insights on how to leverage beneficiary-driven storytelling, technology, and authentic engagement to create a thriving community of donors who are passionate about your cause. Key Episode Highlights: Authenticity is Key: Storytelling is Powerful: Community Cultivation Matters: Technology Can Help: Embrace AI (Wisely): Don’t forget to become a supporter of our show! Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/AOc-VDduIuE Links and Resources: linkedin.com/in/owenodohertyhttps://www.donorsee.com/https://www.actionrise.com/http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/ https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newSupport the show