In this brief but insightful episode of the Stratcomm.Live podcast, Kelsey Boudin, the President and Founder of Grand River Agency, delves into the nuances of strategic funding for nonprofits. Grand River Agency is a strategic communications firm specializing in helping small businesses and nonprofits through various services including digital marketing, website development, nonprofit grant writing and donor cultivation.

Kelsey begins this episode with a personal anecdote, highlighting a recent interaction with one of his nonprofit clients. This client, currently engaged in a significant $1 Million Fundraising Campaign, brings to light the multifaceted approach needed for successful grant writing and fund acquisition. Kelsey stresses that the process isn't merely about submitting numerous grant proposals, but about doing so strategically to enhance the chances of receiving funding. He compares this approach to being a successful Major League Baseball hitter – even failing the majority of the time, a 30% success rate can make for a Hall-of-Fame grant writing career.

A major theme of the episode is the importance of funder research. Kelsey explains how he dedicates time each week to explore funding opportunities for his clients, producing concise, one-page documents called Notices of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs). These summaries help busy nonprofit executives make informed decisions quickly.

Kelsey recounts a specific instance where the president of the nonprofit's board questioned the alignment of certain grant opportunities with their current mission. The discussion sheds light on a critical perspective shift: instead of limiting themselves to their current activities, nonprofits should envision what they could achieve with increased funding. He argues that while it is crucial to stay true to the organization's core mission, leveraging new funding to enhance or expand capabilities can drive broader systemic impact.

For instance, could additional funding allow the organization to hire consultants for financial planning, helping their beneficiaries manage limited resources better? Or partnerships with local school districts to provide educational components such as budgeting and debt management skills? Such initiatives, though tangential, could significantly amplify the nonprofit's overarching mission and contribute to solving root problems rather than just addressing symptoms through direct services.

Throughout the episode, Kelsey underscores the importance of thinking beyond current limitations and focusing on the potential for future growth and impact. He reassures nonprofits that strategic expansion isn't about mission creep, but rather about making a more substantial impact in their community.

To wrap up, Kelsey expresses his gratitude to the clients for entrusting Grand River Agency with their campaigns and highlights the agency's commitment to moving the needle on important community missions. He signs off by encouraging his listeners to embrace this broader perspective in their fundraising efforts.

Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights from Grand River Agency President & Founder Kelsey Boudin on how to strategically approach grant writing and fundraising to expand your nonprofit's impact.

In this episode of the StratComm.Live Podcast, hosts Josh Hatcher and Kelsey Bowden dive into the crucial digital marketing trends shaping the nonprofit sector in 2024. As the landscape evolves, they stress the significance of digital engagement for small nonprofits, emphasizing the role it plays in appealing to donors and grant funders.

Welcome to StratComm.Live, THE podcast for Small Business and Nonprofit Marketing.

We're here to guide YOUR organization in telling your story effectively. Many nonprofits and small businesses struggle with ineffective marketing or reaching the right audience. We're here to change that!

Don't miss our DIGITAL STORYTELLING GUIDE: https://grandriveragency.io/engage-inspire-change-the-world/

Getting the Most of Your Nonprofit Digital Marketing This Year:

Addressing the importance of digital marketing, the hosts discuss the pivotal role a robust web presence plays in enticing funders for support.

Trends to Watch: Nonprofit Marketing in an Evolving Digital Landscape:

Personalization Matters: The hosts delve into individual level personalization and segmentation based on demographic information.

Invest in the Digital Realm: Prioritizing online presence and the importance of donor-centric online giving options.

Harness the Power of Video: Discussing the role of video marketing for younger audiences and cost-effective ways to create impactful content.

Engage Influencers: Exploring the benefits of collaborating with influencers and the key steps to leverage influencer marketing.

Leveraging Valuable Resources: Mentioning resources like NANOE and exploring podcasts and blog posts for expert guidance.

Above All Else, Be AUTHENTIC with Your Nonprofit Digital Marketing:

The hosts emphasize the dynamic and ever-changing nature of nonprofit digital marketing, encouraging adaptation to remain impactful in the digital age.

Thanks for tuning in to STRATCOMM.LIVE: THE Small Business and Nonprofit Marketing Podcast! Check out our website at StratComm.live for the latest marketing news and headlines. Subscribe, leave a rating and review, and tell your friends about this podcast! We all have a story to tell; let’s tell it well!

///

00:20 Introduction

01:16 The Importance of Digital Marketing for Nonprofits

02:00 Understanding Nonprofit as a Business

03:39 The Impact of Nonprofits

04:36 Fun Icebreaker Questions

13:30 The Importance of Digital Presence for Nonprofits

16:43 Digital Marketing Trends for 2024

20:22 The Power of Personalization in Marketing

24:23 Investing in Digital Presence

32:06 The Importance of Planning and Creating Content

32:48 Harnessing the Power of Video

34:12 The Impact of Social Media Algorithms

35:25 Creating Engaging Content for Your Community

36:58 The Power of Live Video

37:33 Behind the Scenes: A Live Video Demonstration

41:29 The Role of Influencers in Nonprofit Marketing

45:28 Leveraging Resources for Nonprofit Marketing

54:40 The Future of Nonprofit Marketing

57:46 A Fun Story: Going Viral with Hot Dogs

Josh Hatcher and Kelsey Boudin of Grand River Agency talk about the mindsets in nonprofits that keep them from growing and reaching more donors.

Nonprofits, it's time to embrace the digital age! Why? Well, the online world offers an incredible opportunity to spread your message far and wide. Most people are hanging out on the internet and social media these days, so it's the perfect place to connect with potential donors, volunteers, and supporters globally. Your online presence can boost fundraising, create awareness, and build a strong community of like-minded folks.

But here's the thing – many nonprofits are still snoozing on their digital game. Some think it's too expensive or complicated, while others just don't see the big picture. That's a missed opportunity.

To make the most of your digital presence, you need to know your audience. Figure out who your potential donors and supporters are, and tailor your messages to them. Do some research and use analytics to see what works and what doesn't. It's all about engaging with the right people and keeping things fresh and relevant.

So, bottom line, nonprofits, don't underestimate the power of going digital. It's a game-changer that can help you reach new heights and make a real impact.

In this podcast episode, the hosts, Josh Hatcher and Kelsey Boudin, discuss their work with NANOE, a nonprofit organization specializing in fundraising for nonprofits. They delve into the strategies and success they’ve had while marketing to NANOE’s audience and emphasize the importance of storytelling to engage audiences. NANOE's unique approach to nonprofit fundraising is highlighted, challenging traditional methods.

Presented by Grand River Agency ---- http://grandriver.agency

Welcome to StratComm.Live: THE podcast for Small Business and Nonprofit Marketing We’re here to help YOUR organization tell your story to the people that need to hear it.

Kelsey and Josh share insights into their social media marketing strategy, focusing on creating engaging content to reach NANOE’s target audience effectively. They highlight the effectiveness of short-form video content and how it can attract attention even weeks after posting.

The conversation also touches on the evolution of NANOE’s relationship with Grand River Agency, with NANOE recommending their services to their followers. They emphasize the affordability and expertise offered by Grand River Agency, making it an accessible choice for smaller nonprofits looking to enhance their digital marketing efforts.

Overall, the podcast explores the power of storytelling and social media in nonprofit fundraising and the value Grand River Agency brings to nonprofit organizations in navigating the ever-changing digital landscape.

More about NANOE - http://nanoe.org

.................................

Follow StratComm.Live

Website | http://stratcomm.live

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/StratComm.Live

LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/stratcomm-live/

Youtube | http://youtube.com/@stratcommlive

Apple Podcasts | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stratcomm-live-the-small-business-and-nonprofit/id1706322463

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/1Th2PqXTPtYICrWVd7Gd2K?si=5edb872a4428489b

...................................

Follow Grand River Agency

Website | http://grandriver.agency

LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/grand-river-agency

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/grandriveragency

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/grandriveragency/

Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU82JdyxQF7vWw5p92Pp5dQ

In this engaging podcast episode, we sit down with Joanne Oppelt, a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. Joanne's journey in nonprofits has taken her from volunteering to executive director roles and, currently, a consultant.

Presented by Grand River Agency ---- http://grandriver.agency

Welcome to StratComm.Live: THE podcast for Small Business and Nonprofit Marketing We’re here to help YOUR organization tell your story to the people that need to hear it.

--------

Throughout her career, Joanne has excelled at merging fundraising with key organizational components such as strategic planning, marketing, operations, and financial systems. Her expertise revolves around establishing sustainable revenue streams and ensuring nonprofits consistently operate with a financial surplus.

Joanne is a prolific author with six books to her name and coauthor of fourteen others, solidifying her reputation as a respected figure in the nonprofit field. She has also shared her knowledge through teaching at Kean University and as a sought-after speaker.

With a master's degree in health administration and a bachelor's degree in education, Joanne brings a unique blend of qualifications to her consulting work. She offers a wide range of services, including consulting, online courses, private coaching, fundraising advice, summits, virtual events, and newsletters, all aimed at helping nonprofits thrive.

In this episode, we dive into Joanne Oppelt's incredible journey and explore the ever-evolving nonprofit landscape. Our discussion delves into fundraising, nonprofit growth, and long-term sustainability, offering valuable insights for nonprofit professionals and anyone interested in philanthropy.

Joanne shares her experiences, strategies, and vision for nonprofits, making this conversation a valuable resource for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the world of philanthropy. Tune in to discover the secrets of nonprofit success!

More from Joanne Oppelt:Website: http://joanneoppeltcourses.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanneoppelt

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joanneoppeltconsulting/

Books: https://www.amazon.com/Books-Joanne-Oppelt/s?rh=n%3A283155%2Cp_27%3AJoanne+Oppelt

.................................

Follow StratComm.Live

Website | http://stratcomm.live

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/StratComm.Live

LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/stratcomm-live/

Youtube | http://youtube.com/@stratcommlive

Apple Podcasts | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stratcomm-live-the-small-business-and-nonprofit/id1706322463

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/1Th2PqXTPtYICrWVd7Gd2K?si=5edb872a4428489b

...................................

Follow Grand River Agency

Website | http://grandriver.agency

LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/grand-river-agency

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/grandriveragency

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/grandriveragency/

Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU82JdyxQF7vWw5p92Pp5dQ

Presented by Grand River Agency ---- http://grandriver.agency

Welcome to StratComm.Live: THE podcast for Small Business and Nonprofit Marketing We’re here to help YOUR organization tell your story to the people that need to hear it.

A lot of nonprofits and small businesses end up throwing money away with junk marketing, or they don’t get their message in front of the right people because they don’t know how! We’re here to help you change that!

Do you need to write a grant proposal for your nonprofit?

Kelsey Boudin and Josh Hatcher break down everything you need to know about grant writing, and give you several keys to success in securing funding for your project.

Thanks for tuning in to STRATCOMM: THE Small Business and Nonprofit Marketing Podcast Make sure you check out our website at StratComm.live for the latest marketing news and headlines that you don’t want to miss. Please, Subscribe, Leave a Rating and Review, and Tell your friends about this podcast!  We all have a story to tell, let’s tell it well!

.................................

Follow StratComm.Live

Website | http://stratcomm.live

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/StratComm.Live

LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/stratcomm-live/

Youtube | http://youtube.com/@stratcommlive

Apple Podcasts | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stratcomm-live-the-small-business-and-nonprofit/id1706322463

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/1Th2PqXTPtYICrWVd7Gd2K?si=5edb872a4428489b 

...................................

Follow Grand River Agency

Website | http://grandriver.agency

LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/grand-river-agency

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/grandriveragency

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/grandriveragency/

Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU82JdyxQF7vWw5p92Pp5dQ

Presented by Grand River Agency

In this episode, Grand River Agency VP of Client Success Josh Hatcher breaks down how he achieved almost 700K downloads and built a thriving community around his own podcast, The Manlihood ManCast

.................................

Follow StratComm.Live

Website | http://stratcomm.live

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/StratComm.Live

LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/stratcomm-live/

Youtube | http://youtube.com/@stratcommlive

Apple Podcasts | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stratcomm-live-the-small-business-and-nonprofit/id1706322463

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/1Th2PqXTPtYICrWVd7Gd2K?si=5edb872a4428489b 

...................................

Follow Grand River Agency

Website | http://grandriver.agency

LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/grand-river-agency

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/grandriveragency

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/grandriveragency/

Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU82JdyxQF7vWw5p92Pp5dQ

Presented by Grand River Agency ---- http://grandriver.agency

A lot of nonprofits and small businesses end up throwing money away with junk marketing, or they don’t get their message in front of the right people because they don’t know how! We’re here to help you change that!

Thanks for tuning in to STRATCOMM: THE Small Business and Nonprofit Marketing Podcast Make sure you check out our website at StratComm.live for the latest marketing news and headlines that you don’t want to miss. Please, Subscribe, Leave a Rating and Review, and Tell your friends about this podcast!  We all have a story to tell, let’s tell it well!

.................................

Follow StratComm.Live

Website | http://stratcomm.live

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/StratComm.Live

LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/stratcomm-live/

Youtube | http://youtube.com/@stratcommlive

Apple Podcasts | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stratcomm-live-the-small-business-and-nonprofit/id1706322463

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/1Th2PqXTPtYICrWVd7Gd2K?si=5edb872a4428489b 

...................................

Follow Grand River Agency

Website | http://grandriver.agency

LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/grand-river-agency

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/grandriveragency

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/grandriveragency/

Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU82JdyxQF7vWw5p92Pp5dQ

Josh Hatcher of Grand River Agency breaks down the confusing metrics you may be getting in your twitter analytics right now.

.................................

Follow StratComm.Live

Website | http://stratcomm.live

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/StratComm.Live

LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/stratcomm-live/

Youtube | http://youtube.com/@stratcommlive

Apple Podcasts | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stratcomm-live-the-small-business-and-nonprofit/id1706322463

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/1Th2PqXTPtYICrWVd7Gd2K?si=5edb872a4428489b 

...................................

Follow Grand River Agency

Website | http://grandriver.agency

LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/grand-river-agency

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/grandriveragency

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/grandriveragency/

Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU82JdyxQF7vWw5p92Pp5dQ

A lot of nonprofits and small businesses end up throwing money away with junk marketing, or they don’t get their message in front of the right people because they don’t know how! We’re here to help you change that!

Leveraging Social Media for Nonprofit Success

More resources on Leveraging Social Media for nonprofits at our blog:

https://grandriveragency.io/nonprofit-social-media-maximum-impact/

Thanks for tuning in to STRATCOMM.LIVE: THE Small Business and Nonprofit Marketing Podcast Make sure you check out our website at StratComm.live for the latest marketing news and headlines that you don’t want to miss. Please, Subscribe, Leave a Rating and Review, and Tell your friends about this podcast!  We all have a story to tell, let’s tell it well!

.................................

Follow StratComm.Live

Website | http://stratcomm.live

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/StratComm.Live

LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/stratcomm-live/

Youtube | http://youtube.com/@stratcommlive

Apple Podcasts | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stratcomm-live-the-small-business-and-nonprofit/id1706322463

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/1Th2PqXTPtYICrWVd7Gd2K?si=5edb872a4428489b 

...................................

Follow Grand River Agency

Website | http://grandriver.agency

LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/grand-river-agency

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/grandriveragency

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/grandriveragency/

Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU82JdyxQF7vWw5p92Pp5dQ