The Funder File: How to Research a Funder as a Person, Not a Logo
How to research a funder as a person, not an institution: map the programs or portfolio team background, interests and network to build real relationships.
Conference Networking for Fundraisers: How to Meet Funders Without the Desperate Energy
How to approach conference networking as a fundraiser: pick the right funders, use warm introductions, and build relationships that outlast the event.
From Pick-Me to Powerhouse: What I Wish I Knew as a New Grant Writer
When I wrote my first grant proposal, it took over a year to get funded. I second-guessed every sentence, over-explained every point, and tried to prove our worth a little too hard. Years later, after winning multi-million dollar grants and…
Fundraising Isn’t a Department—It’s a Culture
When we talk about fundraising, we often picture a dedicated development team. But in many Global South nonprofits, there’s often just one person—or none—wearing the “fundraising hat.” And the pressure? Immense. The most resilient nonprofits treat fundraising as a shared…
How to Keep Small Funders Engaged After a Big Win
Landing a large multi-year grant is cause for celebration—but it’s also a moment for reflection. Because when one funder gives big, others may wonder if you still need them. I’ve had smaller funders ask, “Are we still needed now that…
The Fundraising CEO: How to Lead Without Doing It All
Let’s talk about a truth we don’t say out loud enough: Founders and CEOs are often the first—and sometimes only—fundraisers in a nonprofit’s early days. But if your organization’s fundraising strategy still depends solely on your CEO’s calendar and charisma,…
Faking Phone Calls and Fighting Doubt: Fundraising with Imposter Syndrome
Ever been in a room full of development leaders and funders and thought, “What am I doing here?”Yep—me too. I once faked a phone call at a conference just to look like I belonged. That inner critic? That’s imposter syndrome—and…
Conference Confidence: Your Simple Pre-Event Playbook for Fundraising Success
Yes, this is a second post on conferences—because that’s how important they are to your fundraising strategy. If the first one focused on how to plan, this one’s about how to actually show up and connect in ways that move…
How to Prepare for Conferences (Even If You Hate Them)
Confession: I used to dread conferences. The small talk, the crowded rooms, the pressure to perform—it all felt… exhausting. But if you’re fundraising for a nonprofit, especially in the Global South, in-person moments are golden opportunities. The key is to…
Attracting the Right Funders: From Chasing Grants to Leading with Strategy
What if your organization didn’t have to reshape itself for every new funding opportunity? What if funders came to you—aligned with your strategy, values, and approach? It’s not just a dream. Some nonprofits have successfully positioned themselves so funders adjust…