Having worked and volunteered in fundraising for over three decades, I have noticed that there are a few questions that I am asked repeatedly, particularly when I consult on mobilising resources for non-profits: 1. How can we raise money quickly? (or: Where can we find the low hanging fruit?) My response is generally to suggest […]
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In all the years that I have been posting blogs; I have never featured a book. However, when something phenomenal is published, how can I NOT share it? Alan Clayton’s Great Fundraising Organizations, one of the very few (possibly the first – I have not been able to establish whether it holds this record –
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In an increasingly digital world, non-profit organisations’ staff and volunteers face mounting pressure to optimise their fundraising efforts. Limited budgets and competition for donor attention and funding (particularly following USAID cuts) are making it more challenging than ever to sustain vital projects. Fortunately, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), particularly large language models (LLMs), offer transformative
AI and Fundraising – Don’t Neglect Legal Considerations Read More »
Sadly, I have written similar articles over many years, in response to major financial blows. My first was in 1985 when apartheid leader, PW Botha, did not have the courage, wisdom or humanity to cross the Rubicon (as his cruel stubbornness was dubbed). Everyone expected the announcement of the beginning of the dismantling of legislated
NPO team members focus much of their time on all aspects of planning – overall strategy, project planning/updating, resource mobilisation planning – and much more. These exercises can take many hours (and if consultants are hired to bring independence and experience, can increase costs). All planning is necessary, in fact, vital. However, too often, too
As the working year begins and NPO, school and tertiary fundraising staff resume their duties, the focus is on raising money. Raising more money; raising money in new/innovative ways; CEOs and boards will be stepping up their pressure and asking for updated fundraising plans: How much money will be raised? From which donors? Via which
I had missed reading posts and newsletters by legendary fundraising guru, Ligia Peña. And then they reappeared and were permeated by kindness. It’s a welcome global trend. How could it not be with some of YouTube’s most viewed videos featuring people such as Trevor Noah and the iconic Simon Sinek demonstrating and promoting kindness? Caring,
The evolution of humankind has been marked by monumental milestones: the discovery and use of fire 2 million years ago; the invention of the wheel – estimated at around 4,000 BC; steam power; the Industrial Revolution; electricity; the telegram; the telephone; X-rays and massive strides in medical science; radar; computing; email; the worldwide web. The
AI is Here to Stay Read More »
The terms ‘goals’ and ‘objectives’ are often confused by NPO staff members and volunteers. Importantly, these are understood by donors. Therefore, it’s vital that these are clear within the NPO sector, particularly by those applying to companies and donor trusts/foundations for funding. Well-run organisations’ projects have theories of change (which should have been developed in
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I chair a small organisation that has had the kind assistance of someone doing its bookkeeping and the preparation of its year-end accounts from her home, for over a decade. This practise now has a name and, as it implies, micro volunteering encompasses short, flexible, and often virtual tasks that require minimal commitment from the
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