In this episode, Andrew visits with Jacob Laskowski, founder and CEO of 86 Creative, a full service marketing and design firm that’s worked with some of the most well known organizations currently serving the Catholic Church. In this conversation, they dive into the principles of design and marketing that most directly affect a charity's ability to fundraise and discuss how organizations can best position themselves to clearly explain their mission and vision.

Jacob began his career with FOCUS as a missionary and then working in their marketing department. Two of his major accomplishments during that time was creating a new logo for FOCUS and rebranding their annual conference as SEEK.

https://www.focus.org/

Later, Jacob decided to start his own business where he could be creative and work with a variety of clients. 86 Creative is a full service design and marketing firm that helps businesses and nonprofits tell their story and look good.

http://86creative.com/

Many of the rules and principles that Jacob uses in his design, he has learned from companies like Apple and Starbucks.

When creating a proposal or case for support for fundraising, Jacob recommends a five-step process.

1. State the situation
2. State your idea
3. Tell how it works
4. State your impact
5. Ask for support

One piece of advice that Jacob has for organizations is to not try to say too much in their initial message. It’s important to invite people in to ask more questions.

Jacob encourages nonprofits to reach out to volunteers who might be able to help with design projects. For campus ministries, there are likely some students who can offer ideas and suggestions. Board members can also be a resource. Another recommendation is to read. Jacob recommends “All Marketers are Liars” by Seth Godin.

For more information about Jacob Laskowski and his work or to connect with her, visit http://86creative.com/ or email him at [email protected].