April 26, 2013
Nonprofit managers who launch organizations and decision-makers who have been around for a while often struggle with the same thing: Fundraising. It's the nature of the industry that makes it hard for nonprofits to consistently gather capital. Organizations often rely on donations from businesses and individuals to stay float and continue operations, but the economy has made it difficult for nonprofits to acquire the necessary funds. Here are some tips from npENGAGE to help nonprofit managers become better at fundraising:
Take part in webinars
Nonprofit managers should always look for new ways to improve fundraising, and what better way to learn about the industry than by listening to experts in an online presentation? Webinars are a great way to expand a knowledge base, because attendees have the opportunity to see slides created by the speaker, as well as listen to their overture from the comfort of their own computer chair.
Attend networking events
Industry events are a great way to not only glean insight from experts, but also meet new people who may be interested in the organization. Nonprofit managers trying to garner funding should attend at least one local networking event or conference each quarter where they can meet new people and spread the word about the organization. Forming relationships with other leaders can be a great way to boost awareness and fundraising efforts.
Hold fundraising events
Nonprofits are often created around a cause people believe in and want to help, and the cause serves as a great opportunity for nonprofit managers to hold fundraising events. However, before creating plans for a number of different occasions, it's important for decision-makers at nonprofits to remember that less is more when planning events. Having a party, fundraiser or gala once of twice each year will be more beneficial than hosting a monthly event.
Read about the industry
Nonprofit managers can never learn enough about how these organizations work, and the more they learn about the industry, the better chance they will have to be successful. By reading at least one article, book, magazine or whitepaper about how to improve fundraising each day, decision-makers will be better equipped – and inspired – to bring more money into the organization.
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Working with Marshal Whittey at First Nonprofit has been a great experience. He handles our request as a priority and goes above and beyond to resolve any issues we have in a timely manner. Marshall follows through to the end and ensures our needs are met. He has been a great resource for LSC and our “go to” for any tax questions we may have. With LSC transitioning several facilities into one federal tax identification number, First Nonprofit was able to assist and provide guidance with best practices resolving claims to each entity. Additionally First Nonprofit provided knowledge (information materials) and one on one training to HRS group with best practices to handle claims state adjudicated, fraudulent claims, and appeals. And processing information in the First Nonprofit [unemployment claims] system allows for timely information can be collected.
My experience with FNP has been wonderful. Unemployment in general is quite confusing and FNP has simplified the process for us. Everyone we have reached out to or worked with has been very helpful and follows up to be sure we understand the information. I am so happy we made the switch to FNP!
First Nonprofit smoothed the unemployment perils for our organization during Covid. Without the ability to cap our UI exposure, we would not have been able to weather the storm. The program worked perfectly and we have come out of the pandemic ready to forge on. Thanks FNP!
My experience with the FNP has been fantastic. The idea of setting funds aside for the unemployment tax liability is a bedrock for nonprofit organizations like mine, namely ASHBA; what is even more advantageous is having the FNP as a custodian of those funds. 100% recommended!
I would like to comment on my experience with FNP….to date our District has saved $1,000’s of dollars by being enrolled in the First Nonprofit program. My only regret is that we did not know about this method of paying unemployment tax years ago….as I had figured about five years
ago, had we enrolled 15-20 years ago, we could have saved our small school district upwards of $500,000 in payments to IDES. Also we would have had a pretty hefty sum of money in our Reserve Account. Thankfully I attended a workshop hosted by First Nonprofit back in 2015 which got the ball rolling!
I have worked with the First Non-Profit Team for many years, and I appreciate the quick response and care that Cecilia and the team provides anytime I have questions. While there are other providers that may provide like services, First Nonprofit will always be my first choice! I appreciate you!
First Nonprofit has been easy to work with and makes the administrative process easier and smoother. We enjoy working with you.
Luckily for us, our interactions regarding any issues with staffing has been very minimal! I can say that all other interactions with regards to billing, 941 reporting, etc. have been extremely pleasant, accommodating and easy to work with. Kim Ghanayem is always prompt, professional and friendly. Thank you so much!