Hey Nonprofits!

Every nonprofit is losing donations because they’re not focusing on what truly matters, engaging and building relationships with major donors. In Episode 20 of the “Hey Nonprofits” podcast, host Trevor Nelson sits down with fundraising expert Trisha Brauer to share strategies that nonprofits can use right now to transform their donor engagement. If your organization struggles to ask for large donations, connect with high-level donors, or get consistent funding, this episode is the solution you need. Learn the proven approaches other nonprofits are using to raise more money and what to avoid doing that could drive donors away.

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Trisha Brauer, leveraging years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, explains how to address challenges like donor gatekeeping, hesitations to “pick up the phone,” and how nonprofits unwittingly treat donors like ATMs instead of valued partners. From the importance of building deeper donor relationships to powerful ways to thank and engage your supporters, this conversation takes a deep dive into the common pitfalls nonprofits need to overcome. You’ll also explore how clear communication and personalized stewardship can increase donations at every level.

Need help with your fundraising strategy? We offer FREE nonprofit coaching to help your organization succeed. Get started here: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Discover the 4 major mistakes nonprofits make: ignoring relationships, being afraid to ask, failing to communicate value, and skipping donor follow-up. If these sound familiar, this episode will help you take actionable steps to fix them and create long-lasting donor connections. Don’t just fundraise, build a community of loyal supporters.

Listen to “Hey Nonprofits” Episode 20 today and learn how nonprofits thrive by mastering donor engagement with tips and expert insights from Trisha Brauer.

✈️ Do your donors like to travel? Allow them to spend their travel budgets to have a great vacation, AND fund your nonprofit! Reserve an item here https://hgafundraising.com/

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Chapters:

0:00 Introduction: Understanding the $2,500 Tipping Point

2:07 Why Tough Conversations Are Essential for Major Gifts

3:29 Breaking Gatekeeping: Empowering Fundraisers to Succeed

5:16 Personalizing Donor Stewardship: The Difference It Makes

7:57 Hospitality in Fundraising: Lessons from Ritz-Carlton

14:42 Building Long-Term Donor Trust Through Connection

18:28 Simplifying Fundraising Events: Less Is More

25:00 Modern Fundraising Themes That Engage and Delight

28:10 Auction Secrets: Timing and Strategy for Success

33:10 Pre-Commitment Strategies: Securing Funds Early

36:11 Top Revenue Enhancers: Golden Tickets & Mystery Pulls

39:10 Final Thoughts: Fostering Donor Loyalty

Are you accidentally pushing donors away without realizing it? Saying “thank you” might seem simple, but so many nonprofits fall into common traps that turn a heartfelt gesture into a missed opportunity. In this episode of Hey Nonprofits, host Trevor Nelson welcomes guest Kevin Brown to uncover the four biggest mistakes nonprofits make when thanking donors and how to fix them to build stronger, lasting donor relationships.

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In Episode 19, Trevor and Kevin break down the four key mistakes: not showing appreciation promptly, failing to personalize your gratitude, ignoring the impact of clear communication, and seeing donors only as financial contributors. This conversation highlights how nonprofits can avoid these pitfalls, foster deeper connections with supporters, and inspire ongoing generosity. Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, fundraising professional, or volunteer, these insights will help you rethink how donor appreciation impacts your mission. If your team needs extra guidance or personalized support, check out our FREE nonprofit coaching program to take your fundraising to the next level: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Learn how to transform casual donors into loyal advocates. Make sure to follow Hey Nonprofits for practical strategies, modern nonprofit advice, and more eye-opening discussions with experts like Kevin Brown! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this video with your team.

✈️ Do your donors like to travel? Allow them to spend their travel budgets to have a great vacation, AND fund your nonprofit! Reserve an item here https://hgafundraising.com/

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Chapters:

0:00 Keep Donors Coming Back

1:39 Lessons from the Business World

4:59 Think Like a Business

6:42 Fundraising is Leadership

10:09 Donors as Mission Investors

11:51 Humanize Donor Communication

15:08 Thank Yous That Retain Donors

16:49 Easy Donor Appreciation Tips

19:43 Engage Donors Beyond Money

21:12 Standing Out to Big Donors

24:05 Clear Mission, Easy Fundraising

25:38 8-Word Mission Statements

28:38 Simplify Donor Messaging

30:22 Team & Board = Fundraising Power

33:19 Train Teams for Fundraising

35:05 Routines for Goal Success

38:16 Storytelling for Fundraising Clarity

39:51 Fundraising with Tight Budgets

42:43 Tools for Better Fundraising

44:08 Collaboration for Nonprofit Success

Are you tired of feeling awkward or unsure when pitching your nonprofit’s mission? Imagine building confidence, creating stronger donor relationships, and increasing your fundraising success, all by transforming how you approach difficult situations. In this episode of Hey Nonprofits, hosted by Trevor Nelson, fundraising expert Julie Ordoñez reveals how embracing honesty and rethinking outdated strategies can revolutionize your donor conversations. This episode is packed with actionable fundraising tips designed to help you grow your impact and connect with donors on a deeper level.

Ready to take your nonprofit to new heights? Start by subscribing to our newsletter for the latest strategies and insights in nonprofit fundraising: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

In Episode 18, "Stop Letting Awkwardness Ruin Your Nonprofit Pitches," Julie shares her journey from reluctant consultant to successful fundraising coach, teaching nonprofit teams to overcome scarcity mindsets and build pathways to abundance. Whether you're navigating board pushback, learning to ask for larger donations, or figuring out how to address fear in fundraising, there’s something in this episode for everyone. Plus, we dive into the importance of emotional intelligence, meaningful donor relationships, and adapting to a fast-changing nonprofit landscape. Need help with fundraising? Get FREE nonprofit coaching here: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/.

Don’t let fear hold you back from making bigger asks or improving your nonprofit’s funding strategies. Watch now and hear how to turn challenges into opportunities with real, practical advice you can start using today. Subscribe to Hey Nonprofits for more expert insights, meaningful conversations, and tools to grow your mission with confidence.

✈️ Do your donors like to travel? Allow them to spend their travel budgets to have a great vacation, AND fund your nonprofit! Reserve an item here https://hgafundraising.com/

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https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Chapters:

0:00 Honest Tips for Awkward Donor Moments

1:58 Update Your Old Fundraising Tactics

6:44 Julie’s Path to Fundraising Success

9:13 $5M Raised by Teaching Fundraising

13:54 Change Your Money Mindset Now

16:08 Handle Board Pushback on Big Asks

20:35 Ask Bigger, Get Bigger Donations

22:58 Overcome Fundraising Fear with Courage

26:52 Learn and Grow from Fundraising Wins

29:21 Accountability Leads to Fundraising Success

33:44 Wealthy Donors Want Connection

36:03 Wealthy Donors Struggle Too

40:26 Go Beyond Money with Donor Support

42:12 Honest Fundraising Builds Trust

46:03 Understand Donors Before You Ask

47:58 Rebuild Trust with Past Donors

51:45 Use Silence to Seal the Deal

53:50 Prep for Big Donor Talks

57:19 Engage Your Board Without Asking

59:08 Personal Touches Strengthen Donor Bonds

1:03:11 Don’t Fundraise Alone

1:05:35 Build Confidence to Ask Big

1:09:20 Gratitude Changes Everything

1:11:29 Give More, Receive More

1:15:09 Follow Julie Ordoñez’s Journey

Stop submitting grant proposals that fall flat! In this must-watch episode of Hey Nonprofits, host Trevor Nelson sits down with grant writing expert Lynn McGinnity to reveal the strategies behind writing grant proposals that actually get funded. If you’ve been struggling to clarify your funding needs or make your proposals stand out, this episode is packed with actionable advice you don’t want to miss. Get ready to learn how clarity, precision, and a human touch can take your grant writing to the next level.

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Follow Lynn McGinnity on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnarsenault/

Need help with Grant Writing? Work with Lynnhttps://www.lmagrantconsulting.com/

This Episode 17 discussion dives deep into why funders value clear communication and authenticity when reviewing grant proposals. Trevor and Lynn share how to create a compelling sustainability plan, harness AI tools like ChatGPT for drafting proposals, and approach funders with gratitude to build lasting relationships. You'll also discover how nonprofits can save time with templates, connect with aligned funders, and successfully outline financial sustainability in proposals. Every tip in this episode is designed to help your nonprofit thrive.

Need help with your fundraising efforts? We provide FREE coaching to nonprofits to help you meet your goals! Get started here: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Don’t miss this insightful episode that will transform the way your nonprofit approaches fundraising and grants. Watch now and learn how to write grant proposals that resonate with funders!

✈️ Do your donors like to travel? Allow them to spend their travel budgets to have a great vacation, AND fund your nonprofit! Reserve an item here https://hgafundraising.com/

💡 Sign up to our newsletter to receive weekly fundraising tips:

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Need help with fundraising? We offer FREE non-profit coaching 👇

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Chapters: 

0:00 Create a Winning Grant Sustainability Plan

1:55 Balancing Family and Business Startups

5:27 Grant Writing: Your Key to More Funding

7:22 How Communities Drive Nonprofit Success

11:39 Strengthen Funder Ties with Gratitude

13:41 Build Stronger Donor Relationships

17:09 Make Your Grant Proposals Personal

18:55 Use AI to Improve Grant Writing

22:17 Save Time with Grant Templates

24:14 Answer Funders’ Real Questions

28:00 Clearly State Your Funding Needs

29:32 Write Clear, Intentional Proposals

32:49 Tailor Proposals to Funder Rules

34:22 Update Funders About Program Changes

37:42 Engage Investors Early for Success

39:25 Find Funders Aligned with Your Mission

43:21 Use Grant Tools to Find Opportunities

45:07 Locate Hidden Funding Sources

Struggling to get your nonprofit board to take fundraising seriously? Discover the strategies that truly motivate board members and inspire action in this must-watch episode of Hey Nonprofits! Host Trevor Nelson sits down with fundraising expert Renee Zau in Episode 16 to share practical insights that will transform the way your board approaches fundraising.

To learn more about Renee and DonationMash, visit https://www.donationmatch.com/ and continue reading below to learn more about what you'll learn in this episode! 

In this episode, you’ll learn how to overcome common challenges nonprofits face when engaging their boards in fundraising efforts. Trevor and Renee discuss the evolving fundraising landscape, the importance of leveraging technology, and how to foster accountability among board members. From navigating tough conversations to building meaningful relationships with stakeholders, this episode is packed with actionable advice that you can implement immediately.

Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, development director, or volunteer, this episode is a goldmine of ideas for increasing donations, connecting with donors, and strengthening your board’s commitment to fundraising. Don’t miss this engaging conversation designed to help you tackle your biggest fundraising challenges and make a greater impact.

Watch now and turn your board into a powerful fundraising force!

✈️ Do your donors like to travel? Allow them to spend their travel budgets to have a great vacation, AND fund your nonprofit! Reserve an item here https://hgafundraising.com/

💡 Sign up to our newsletter to receive weekly fundraising tips:

https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Need help with fundraising? We offer FREE non-profit coaching 👇

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction: Boost Your Nonprofit Fundraising Now

0:04 Engage Your Board: How to Mobilize Them for Fundraising Success

1:59 Fundraising Evolution: How Tech Is Changing the Game

6:22 Adapting to Uncertainty: Why Self-Sufficiency Is Key

8:33 Innovations from Crisis: Creative Fundraising Post-COVID

12:56 Inspire Your Board: Getting Them Excited to Fundraise

14:37 Board Accountability: Tough Talks and Fresh Ideas

18:42 Networking Tips: Collaborate for Bigger Fundraising Impacts

20:11 Volunteering Stories: How It Leads to Fundraising Passion

24:22 Streamline Donation Requests: Simplify and Succeed

26:14 Building Tech for Nonprofits: Patience Pays Off

29:51 Silent Auctions: Engage New Mid-Level Donors

31:31 Overcome Challenges: Modern Strategies for Fundraising

35:41 Showcase ROI: Win Over Corporate Donors

37:41 Find the Perfect Match: Aligning Missions with Partners

41:20 Share Impact Stories: Inspire Donors with Real Results

43:22 Better Communication: Master the Art of Asking and Gratitude

46:49 Build Trust: The Secret to Consistent Donations

48:17 Winning Silent Auctions: Tips for Success

52:06 Learn from Donors: Use Surveys to Improve Fundraising

53:44 Diverse Fundraising: Options for Every Donor

57:02 Teamwork Wins: Celebrate Collaboration in Nonprofits

Want to know how successful nonprofits rally communities and consistently grow their fundraising? This episode dives into exactly how you can expand your reach, inspire action, and drive donations like never before. If you're ready to transform the way your nonprofit operates, you can't miss this dynamic discussion!Welcome to episode 15 of Hey Nonprofits with your host Trevor Nelson. In this must-watch episode, Trevor is joined by special guest Dr. Ortega, a seasoned expert in nonprofit development and community engagement. Together, they explore how thriving nonprofits are able to build lasting connections, foster strong supporter bases, and generate the resources they need to grow. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, development director, or a passionate volunteer, this episode is packed with actionable strategies you can use immediately to enhance your fundraising success and strengthen your organization.You’ll learn how technology and modern approaches can amplify your mission and bring tangible results. Dr. Ortega offers practical insights on leveraging storytelling to connect emotionally, using digital platforms to reach a broader audience, and fostering a sense of belonging within your community. This episode emphasizes the importance of combining clear fundraising goals with innovative solutions to make your cause stand out in today’s crowded nonprofit landscape.Trevor and Dr. Ortega also tackle common challenges like volunteer burnout and donor fatigue, offering tips to maintain work-life balance while achieving organizational objectives. This episode is all about helping nonprofit professionals not just survive but thrive in a demanding field. You'll discover proven techniques to run effective campaigns that build trust, grow community support, and ensure long-term sustainability for your organization.Get ready to evolve the way you approach fundraising, community building, and leadership. If you're searching for ways to increase donations, connect with new supporters, and make a meaningful impact as a nonprofit professional, this discussion has the insights you've been looking for. Hit play now and take the next step toward reaching your nonprofit's goals with Hey Nonprofits!Don't forget to like, share, and comment on this video. Subscribe to Hey Nonprofits for more inspiring content tailored to nonprofit professionals who are passionate about making a difference! Hosted by Trevor Nelson, featuring Dr. Ortega—this episode is your opportunity to learn from the best in the field of community building and nonprofit fundraising.✈️ Do your donors like to travel? Allow them to spend their travel budgets to have a great vacation, AND fund your nonprofit! Reserve an item here https://hgafundraising.com/💡 Sign up to our newsletter to receive weekly fundraising tips:https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/Need help with fundraising? We offer FREE non-profit coaching 👇https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/Chapters:0:00 Building Inclusive Communities2:06 Balancing Theory and Practice6:07 Why Nonprofits Hire First8:00 Invest in Staff and Tech12:07 Board Members Must Give14:20 Focus on Your Strengths18:03 Niche Expertise Matters19:56 Grassroots Fundraising Tips23:36 Hosting Engaging Events25:32 Small Events, Big Impact29:02 Goals and Visibility Tips31:01 Using Data to Find Donors

Unlock the secret to turning event attendees into loyal monthly donors with Episode 14 of "Hey Nonprofits"! Hosted by Trevor Nelson and featuring fundraising expert Dave Raley, this episode dives into a step-by-step blueprint that nonprofits can use to create sustainable donor relationships. If you're tired of hosting events that generate one-time contributions but fail to build long-term support, this conversation is what your organization needs to hear.

In this episode, Trevor Nelson and Dave Raley explore how nonprofits can shift their fundraising strategy to maximize the value of every single event attendee. Discover the mindset, tools, and technology that transform event engagement into consistent monthly giving—and why this approach has become essential for nonprofits in 2025. From cultivating meaningful post-event communication to structuring monthly giving programs that resonate with modern donors, you'll walk away with actionable ideas designed to increase retention and build a dependable base of loyal supporters.

Dave Raley shares insights on leveraging storytelling to highlight impact, using data to understand donor motivations, and making communication feel personalized at every stage of the donor journey. Whether you're an executive director, a development coordinator, or a volunteer ready to make a bigger impact, this episode reveals how to blend practical tactics with heartfelt connection to create a strategy for sustainable growth.

Listen to real-world examples of organizations that successfully turned single-event contributors into lifelong supporters while addressing common challenges nonprofits face in maintaining donor loyalty. Also, hear about the subtle details in event follow-ups, how to use technology without losing the human touch, and what shifts are reshaping donor expectations in today’s digital age.

Don’t let your hard work on events end at the closing remarks. Discover how to engage attendees long after the event ends, and turn exciting moments into lasting impact for your nonprofit. With the tips shared in this podcast, you'll inspire deeper connections with your audience, enhance their trust, and see your donor base grow like never before.

Find Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/draley/

✈️ Do your donors like to travel? Allow them to spend their travel budgets to have a great vacation, AND fund your nonprofit! Reserve an item here https://hgafundraising.com/

💡 Sign up to our newsletter to receive weekly fundraising tips:

https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Need help with fundraising? We offer FREE non-profit coaching 👇

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction to Sustainable Fundraising Strategies

0:05 Why Monthly Donations Are Key for Long-Term Success

2:03 How the Subscription Model is Changing Donations

5:59 Expert Insights on Building Sustainable Giving Campaigns

7:54 Overcoming Challenges in Starting Monthly Giving Programs

11:44 The 75% Missed Opportunity in Recurring Donations

13:47 Using Live Events to Boost Monthly Donor Sign-Ups

17:33 Recent Campaign Success: Transforming Donors into Loyal Supporters

19:26 Treating Donors Like Investors to Build Stronger Relationships

22:50 How to Keep Donors Engaged and Subscribed

24:45 Communicating Impact to Overcome Donor Hesitations

28:30 Creating Effective and Trustworthy Recurring Donation Programs

30:22 Using Creative Program Names to Elevate Branding

33:54 Turning Event Attendees into Recurring and Legacy Donors

35:41 Building Donor Communities for Long-Lasting Support

39:21 Promoting Year-Round Philanthropy for Greater Impact

41:04 Leveraging AI and Marketing Strategies for Fundraising Growth

44:41 Identifying and Maximizing Your Organization’s Strengths

46:39 Focusing on Progress: A Unique Look at Growth in Fundraising

49:59 Why Gratitude and Communication Matter in Donor Relationships

51:35 Leveraging LinkedIn to Build Fundraising Connections and Community

Are you struggling to hit your fundraising goals? Here’s the truth: 70% of your fundraising should be done before your event even begins! In Episode 13 of the "Hey Nonprofits" podcast, hosts Trevor Nelson and Jason Ledlow break down why pre-event fundraising is crucial for nonprofit success. Learn how to engage sponsors early, use personal connections to build momentum, and secure the financial support you need—well before the big day.

This episode dives into practical strategies like leveraging existing sponsor relationships, tailoring sponsorship packages to your audience, and the power of transparency to build donor trust. As Trevor and Jason highlight, “Donors won’t give unless they feel connected—relationships matter more than you think.” You’ll also hear tips on how gratitude and recognition can foster ongoing support and ensure donors feel appreciated.

Whether you're a nonprofit leader, development director, or volunteer, this conversation will inspire you to rethink your approach to nonprofit events and equip you with actionable advice to reach your fundraising goals. Tune in now to discover innovative ideas, success stories, and strategies you can start using today to make your next event a success!

This video is perfect for anyone looking to modernize their fundraising strategies, achieve better work-life balance while planning events, and connect deeply with donors. Don’t forget to leave a comment on what works for your nonprofit and subscribe to the "Hey Nonprofits" podcast for more fundraising tips and ideas!

Chapters:

0:00 Start Early for Fundraising Success

2:15 Why 70% Happens Before the Event

5:46 From Casual Gathering to Fundraising Win

7:52 Leverage Existing Sponsor Relationships

11:39 Build Donor Trust with Transparency

13:26 Turn New Donors into Loyal Supporters

16:58 Relationships Are the Key to Success

18:39 Connect Beyond Organizations

22:14 Tailor Sponsorships to Your Audience

23:55 Recognize Sponsors for Ongoing Support

27:27 Secure Sponsors with Honest Talks

29:12 Benefits of Engaging Sponsors Early

32:36 Exclusive Pre-Events Boost Interest

34:20 Drive Engagement with Exclusivity

37:46 Gratitude Builds Long-Term Support

39:35 Strengthen Connections During Events

42:53 First Impressions Matter

44:43 Creative Sponsorship Ideas

47:57 Cut Costs with Corporate Sponsors

49:41 Pre-Event Hacks for More Funds

52:59 Jason’s Sponsorship Coaching Tips

54:49 Stretch Goals to Unlock Donations

In this (reuploaded) episode of "Hey Nonprofits" Trevor Nelson talks fundraising with Lance Kawaguchi, CEO of Australia’s Cure Brain Cancer Foundation about his trek to the south pole to raise money and awareness for brain cancer research. Lance also highlights innovative funding approaches and the significance of building relationships within the nonprofit sector to maximize impact.

If you enjoyed today's podcast, please leave us a review. We would really appreciate your feedback 🙂

Timestamps:

00:00 Sports Enthusiasm

01:22 Cancer Research Initiatives

02:50 Collaboration Over Competition in Nonprofits

04:45 Personal Experiences and Empathy in Advocacy

05:04 The South Pole Trek for Cancer Awareness

07:40 Innovative Funding Approaches in Cancer Research

09:09 Building Relationships for Greater Impact

10:09 Educating and Collaborating Across Cancer Organizations

11:56 Building Relationships in Fundraising

15:39 The Emotional Toll of Fundraising

17:39 Mindsets That Get Through Challenging Times

21:00 Gratitude and Perspective in Life

23:20 Closing Thoughts

(*This is a reupload of a past podcast*)

Jason and Trevor discuss how one item can help nonprofits raise more money at their fundraising event.

Learn how to boost your live auction results with a single item, known as trips and experiences here in our world. These trip auction items allow your donors to combine their giving budget AND their travel budget to donate to your cause.

It's a win-win situation.

For more information about our trips, visit our catalog here https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences

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