Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits

Every nonprofit begins the same way: with a problem that refuses to leave your mind. In this episode, Matt introduces the Nonprofit Flight Path, a five-phase framework that maps the predictable journey every nonprofit takes from early dreaming to long-term sustainability.Today’s focus is on the first two phases:Phase One: The Dreaming PhasePhase Two: The Building Consensus PhaseIf you are in the early stages of launching your nonprofit, this episode will help you:Name what you are thinking and feelingUnderstand why uncertainty is normalIdentify the risks that cause leaders to stallClarify the next right step forward✈️ Phase One: The Dreaming PhaseEvery nonprofit starts with you seeing a problem up close. You feel a personal responsibility to do something about it. The idea grows quietly in your mind.Common thoughts in this phase:Where do I even start?Am I qualified to do this?Could I actually make this work?Is there a future where this replaces what I am doing now?What you’re feeling:Excitement and energyFear and risk awarenessAnxiety due to lack of clarityThe biggest danger: Staying in the dreaming phase too long. Inspiration without movement becomes regret.What helps you move forward:Speak the idea out loudShare it with trusted truth tellersResearch whether the problem is real and widespreadGive the idea the “24 hour test”Dreaming is necessary. But clarity requires externalization.🚀 Phase Two: The Building Consensus PhaseThis is where your idea leaves your head and enters the real world.You begin talking with family, mentors, and potential supporters. Affirmation builds. So does complexity.Common thoughts in this phase:What am I missing?How do I legally start this?How much will it cost?Who actually knows how to do this?What you’re feeling:ValidationOverwhelmPractical fearSelf doubtThis is often where:Endless research beginsLeaders stall outOr vision grows unrealistically large too fastThe temptation is to build the fully formed organization in your imagination. Facilities. Staff. Multiple programs.But healthy nonprofits begin with an MVP: a Minimum Viable Program.Matt shares the story of a thriving multimillion dollar nonprofit that began with one college student, a camping stove, and grilled cheese sandwiches for the homeless. Big impact rarely starts big.What moves you forward from Phase Two:Identifying potential board membersBuilding early structureClarifying fundraising messagingSecuring supportDesigning your first viable version of impactBuilding consensus is not about convincing people to believe in you. It is about confirming the vision is real, viable, and worth stewarding.Why This MattersUncertainty in these early phases is not a red flag.It is predictable pressure.The leaders who move forward are not the ones who feel the most confident. They are the ones who understand what the pressure is revealing and what it is asking of them next.When you can name the phase you are in, you can name your next step.Coming NextIn the next episode, Matt walks through Phases 3 - 5And what it takes to move from intention to momentum without burning out.🎯 Resource MentionedLaunchpad Workshop: Essentials for Moving from Nonprofit Idea to ImpactIf you are in the dreaming or early phases, this virtual workshop is designed specifically for you.April 28 to 30One hour per dayMission and vision clarityBoard developmentEarly fundraisingDesigning your MVP$49 investmentVisit: nonprofitlaunchplan.com and click Workshop.

There is a critical moment in the early life of almost every nonprofit when leaders feel pressure to go bigger.More marketing. More emails. More social posts. A bigger event. A broader appeal.And when those efforts fall flat, it is easy to assume something is wrong with the mission.In this episode, I explain why the problem usually is not your mission at all. It is timing.This is part three of a three-part series on securing your first nonprofit dollars. In this final installment, we focus on why early fundraising does not grow through reach, but through depth and relationships.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Why broad fundraising campaigns almost always fail in the early stagesThe difference between transactions and trust transfersWho your true early believers actually are and how to find themWhy one-to-one conversations outperform mass communication early onHow to handle introductions from board members and supporters with professionalism and respectWhat success really looks like in early fundraising and what it does notKey Takeaways:Early supporters are not strangers who click a donation link.They are people who already care deeply about the problem you are trying to solve.Your nonprofit does not create that concern.It becomes the vehicle through which they can act on it.That is why early believers are found through conversations, not campaigns.Introductions from board members, donors, and friends are not transactions. They are trust transfers. How quickly and thoughtfully you respond matters more than you think.At this stage, your goal is not to walk away with a check. Your goal is to build understanding, trust, and long-term relationships that can grow into partnership.Practical Strategies Covered:How to follow up on introductions within 24 hoursHow to approach meetings without leading with an askSimple networking ideas that lay strong foundations for future fundingSeries Recap:Part 1: Start with people who already believe in you. Your inner circle is where momentum begins.Part 2: Board giving and board networks validate the mission and build credibility.Part 3: Early believers beyond your immediate circle are found through trust, conversations, and shared concern for the problem you are solving.Together, these three groups form the foundation of healthy early nonprofit funding.Free Resource Mentioned:If fundraising still feels intimidating or unclear, download the Fearless Fundraising Mini Course. It includes a PDF workbook and five short videos covering the five core steps of the Fearless Fundraising Framework:You can access it for free at NonprofitLaunchPlan.com by clicking the pink banner at the top of the homepage.Email: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.comSchedule a FREE call with Matt: Contact | Nonprofit Launch PlanMatt's LinkedIn: Matt Stockman | LinkedIn

What comes after your very first nonprofit gifts? For most startup and early-stage nonprofits, the next critical source of funding is not grants, events, or online campaigns. It is your board and your board’s network.In this second episode of a three-part series on securing your first nonprofit dollars, we focus on the real role your board plays in early fundraising, why board giving is about validation rather than obligation, and how to set expectations that build momentum without burning people out. If you are at or just beyond “ground zero” with 0 names, 0 donors, and $0, this episode will help you use your board as a credibility asset rather than a frustration point.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy your board matters far earlier than most nonprofit leaders realizeThe difference between board giving as validation versus obligationHow board giving removes friction in external fundraising conversationsWhy equal board giving is not the goal, but shared commitment isHow board members can open doors without being forced to ask for moneyRealistic fundraising expectations for small, volunteer boardsWhy fundraising remains a leadership responsibility, not a board handoffPractical steps to activate your board with clarity and confidenceKey TakeawaysBoard giving is a credibility signal, not a pressure tacticEarly donors are evaluating leadership and governance, not just missionBoard networks work best through introductions, not cold asksMomentum in early fundraising is relational, not promotionalClear expectations prevent resentment and burnout on both sidesPractical Next StepsClarify and communicate board expectations clearly and earlyFrame board giving as leadership and belief, not obligationEquip board members with simple, shared fundraising languageAsk for introductions with permission and handle them with careCelebrate board participation to reinforce a healthy cultureFree Resource MentionedFearless Fundraising Mini Course A free PDF workbook and five short videos covering the five core steps of the Fearless Fundraising Framework: problem, solution, ask, urgency, and action. Available at nonprofitlaunchplan.com via the pink banner on the homepage. About This SeriesThis episode is Part 2 of a 3-part series on securing your first nonprofit dollars.Part 1 focused on early believers who already trust youPart 2 focuses on board giving and board networksPart 3 explores early believers beyond your inner circle

What do you do when your nonprofit officially exists, the paperwork is approved, the vision is clear, and everything else is still at zero?Zero names in the database. Zero donors. Zero dollars in the bank.In this episode of the Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, Matt Stockman kicks off Part 1 of a three-part series on how startup and early-stage nonprofits secure their very first dollars. If you are at what Matt calls “ground zero,” this conversation is more important than you might think.Rather than starting with grants, strangers, or complex fundraising systems, this episode explains why almost every healthy nonprofit begins in the same place: with people who already trust and believe in you.In this episode, you will learn:Why your first donor dollars are a critical survival moment for your nonprofitWhy waiting for “strangers with checkbooks” is a common and costly mistakeWho actually belongs in your inner circle of early supportersHow fear, doubt, and misplaced discomfort often derail early fundraisingWhy clarity in your message builds confidence for both you and your supportersMatt walks through a clear, practical process for identifying your inner circle and taking the pressure off early fundraising by focusing on practice, not pressure.Practical steps covered in this episode:How to build a simple list of people who already know and trust youHow to structure early conversations as practice, not asksWhy it takes real reps with real people to grow fundraising confidenceFree Resource Mentioned in This EpisodeMatt references his Fearless Fundraising Mini Course, a free PDF workbook with five short videos that walk through the five core steps of his fundraising framework:ProblemSolutionAskUrgencyActionYou can access the free mini course at nonprofitlaunchplan.com by clicking the pink banner at the top of the homepage. What’s Next:This episode is Part 1 of a three-part series. In the next episode, Matt will break down the second critical source of early nonprofit funding: your board and your board’s network.If you are launching a nonprofit or helping one get off the ground, this series is designed to give you a clear, realistic fundraising path without unnecessary complexity.

When a professional athlete hits a slump, the solution is rarely something flashy. Coaches bring players back to the fundamentals. Stance. Form. Focus. Repetition.In this episode of the Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, Matt Stockman applies that same principle to nonprofit leadership. When your organization feels harder to run than it should, when every solution seems to create two new problems, it is usually not a motivation issue or a creativity issue. It is a fundamentals issue.This episode walks nonprofit leaders through three leadership behaviors to stop in 2026 and three strategic shifts to start, all aimed at building healthier, more stable, and more effective organizations.What You Will Learn in This EpisodeThree leadership habits to stop:Chasing random dollars without a fundraising plan Reactive fundraising leads to instability. Without a clear funding design, nonprofits drift into survival mode, making financial planning nearly impossible.Confusing activity with leadership Being busy is not the same as leading. Leadership is decision making, direction setting, and system building, not carrying the longest to-do list.Letting the calendar run the organization If urgent requests and constant meetings dominate your time, there is no space left for strategic leadership. The organization should control the calendar, not the other way around.Three strategic shifts to start:Designing the organization you actually need Instead of building reactively, leaders are encouraged to envision their nonprofit ten years into the future and reverse-engineer the structure, staffing, and systems needed to get there.Doing less, but doing it exceptionally well Overextension weakens nonprofits. Focused organizations with fewer, well-funded, high-impact programs are healthier and more sustainable than those trying to do everything.Running the organization from dashboards, not feelings Strong leadership depends on clear metrics. Cash runway, donor retention, program cost per impact, and pipeline health should be visible and understood at all times.A Simple Leadership ChallengeRather than trying to implement everything at once, Matt challenges leaders to choose just two actions:One thing to stopOne thing to startImplement both within the next 30 days. One focused decision can significantly change the trajectory of a nonprofit.Resources MentionedFrom Dream to Action: Your Nonprofit Pre-Launch Checklist A free PDF resource outlining 10 essential steps to move from nonprofit idea to impact.Free Strategy Call Learn more about building strong leadership, fundraising, and operational systems at NonprofitLaunchPlan.com.Who This Episode Is ForExecutive Directors and nonprofit foundersLeaders of startup, small, and growing nonprofitsAnyone feeling overwhelmed, reactive, or stretched too thinIf your nonprofit feels busy but not stable, active but not focused, this episode will help you reset around the fundamentals that actually create momentum.

Many nonprofit leaders celebrate raising money, yet still find themselves unable to pay the bills. In this episode, Matt Stockman unpacks one of the most common and dangerous funding traps facing small and growing nonprofits: an overdependence on restricted giving.You will learn why restricted gifts are not the villain, how they can quietly undermine your organization’s stability, and how to shift donor conversations toward healthier, mission-aligned support. Matt walks through real examples, practical frameworks, and specific language you can use to educate donors, build trust, and protect your nonprofit’s long-term impact.If your programs are funded but your operations are constantly under pressure, this conversation will change how you think about fundraising and sustainability.Key TakeawaysWhy restricted gifts feel like success but often create hidden financial strainThe difference between fundraising problems and funding alignment problemsWhat truly happens when operations are underfundedHow to decide which restrictions your organization can responsibly acceptHow to reframe donor conversations around unrestricted and operational supportPractical language you can use to position donors as heroes while protecting your missionWhy early-stage nonprofits need flexibility more than restrictionTopics CoveredRestricted vs. unrestricted givingNonprofit sustainability and operational fundingBoard education around financial healthDonor trust, transparency, and communicationEthical stewardship and leadership responsibilityBuilding long-term organizational resilienceAction Steps for ListenersReview how much of your current funding is restricted.Compare your funding structure to your actual operational needs.Identify restrictions you can no longer responsibly accept.Begin intentionally educating your board and donors on why operations funding matters.Start reframing fundraising conversations around aligned generosity and long-term impact.Resources MentionedFree PDF:From Dream to Action: Your Nonprofit Pre-Launch ChecklistEmail: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nonprofit-launch-planWebsite: Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits

Many nonprofit leaders have a powerful vision, a meaningful mission, and a deep personal calling. Yet when it comes time to raise funds, they hit unexpected resistance. In this episode, Matt Stockman explains why passion alone does not create a fundable nonprofit program and how to transform a heartfelt idea into a clear, credible, and sustainable program that donors and foundations are willing to support.You will learn the critical distinction between passion and program, why donors evaluate outcomes rather than emotion, and how to apply a simple five-part framework to pressure-test any program idea before taking it to market.🧩 Key Topics CoveredWhy meaningful ideas often struggle in fundraisingThe difference between passion and a fundable programHow donors and foundations evaluate nonprofit programsThe five core elements of a strong, fundable programThe “five question pressure test” every nonprofit leader should useWhy clarity increases funding, communication, and sustainabilityHow refining a program reflects strong nonprofit leadership and stewardship🛠️ The Five Core Elements of a Fundable ProgramA program becomes fundable when it clearly defines:The ProblemA specific issue, not a broad or abstract needThe PopulationExactly who is being served and in what contextThe InterventionThe concrete actions your organization will takeThe OutcomeWhat will change as a result of the program’s workThe CapacityWhy your organization is positioned to deliver this program now🧪 The Five Question Program Pressure TestBefore launching or pitching any program idea, ask:What specific problem are we solving?Who exactly are we serving?What are we doing that directly addresses the problem?What will be different because we did this?Why are we the right organization to do this right now?💡 Final Takeaway“Good program ideas deserve good design. Passion is the starting point. Programs are the vehicle.”When clarity increases, communication improves, donor confidence rises, and long-term sustainability follows.📄 Free Resource MentionedFrom Dream to Action: Your Nonprofit Pre-Launch ChecklistA free PDF with 10 essential steps for moving from nonprofit idea to impact.Available at nonprofitlaunchplan.com or by emailing: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com

In this episode of the Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits, Matt Stockman breaks down the three core marketing channels that most small and early-stage nonprofits actually need. Rather than chasing every new platform or trend, Matt explains how focusing on the right channels, in the right order, can reduce overwhelm, build trust, and create sustainable momentum for your organization.This episode is especially relevant for nonprofit founders and leaders who feel pressure to “be everywhere” while still trying to run their organization and advance their mission.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy nonprofit marketing fails when it lacks clarity and focusHow the Nonprofit Launch Plan framework prioritizes simplicity and sustainabilityThe three foundational marketing channels every small nonprofit should focus onWhy email is your most valuable marketing assetHow to choose the one social media platform that actually makes sense for your organizationWhy person-to-person relationships still matter more than platforms, posts, or campaignsWhat nonprofit leaders can confidently stop doing right nowThe 3 Core Marketing Channels Covered1. Your Email List (Your Most Important Asset) Email is an owned channel you control - unlike social media algorithms. A small, engaged email list is far more valuable than a large but disengaged following. Consistency matters more than frequency, and every email should include one clear call to action.2. One Social Media Platform (Not All of Them) Social media is primarily an awareness and relationship-reinforcement tool for small nonprofits, not a fundraising engine. The key is choosing one platform based on where your audience is and where you can show up consistently and then staying focused.3. Direct Human-to-Human Relationships Personal emails, phone calls, coffee meetings, handwritten notes, and real conversations are often the most overlooked (and most powerful) marketing channel. Relationships always precede revenue, and no amount of content can replace genuine connection.Key TakeawaysSmall nonprofits don’t grow because they’re everywhere; they grow because they’re consistent somewhereMarketing should support your mission, not exhaust you or your teamYou do not need to post every day, be on every platform, or run complicated campaignsSimplicity, faithfulness, and consistency outperform complexity every timeFree Resource Mentioned in This EpisodeIf you (or someone you know) are still in the dreaming or early planning phase of launching a nonprofit, Matt offers a free PDF resource:From Dream to Action: Your Nonprofit Pre-Launch Checklist 10 Essential Steps for Moving from Nonprofit Idea to ImpactTo receive the free checklist:Email: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.comOr visit: NonprofitLaunchPlan.comAbout the PodcastThe Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast is for startups, small, and growing nonprofits that want to build on a strong, sustainable foundation. Each episode focuses on one of six core areas: leadership, fundraising, marketing, programs and services, operations, and finances... providing clear frameworks, practical tools, and real-world guidance you can actually apply.

In this episode of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, Matt breaks down a simple, practical, and highly effective three-email year-end fundraising strategy designed specifically for startup, small, and growing nonprofits. Whether you’re behind on your December communications or trying to maximize year-end generosity, this episode gives you a proven roadmap to follow.Matt shows why email is still the #1 driver of online giving for small nonprofits and how even organizations with modest budgets can see strong results by sending the right messages at the right time.🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode1. Why Email Still Works for Year-End GivingEmail continues to outperform social media and ads for small nonprofits.Donors expect to hear from you in December, but they can only respond if you show up.2. The 3 Emails You Must Send in DecemberEmail #1: The Story Setup (Early–Mid December)This email lays the groundwork. It includes:One clear, concise impact story (character → challenge → solution → outcome)One specific need donors can meetOne call to action with a Give Now buttonMatt emphasizes keeping the story to 3–4 sentences and writing like a human: warm, relational, mission-centered.Email #2: The Reminder & Progress Update (Mid–Late December)Send this about a week before Christmas. This email:Updates supporters on progress toward your goalRepeats the need with new numbersEncourages continued momentumEnds with the crucial P.S. repeating the deadline or goalPeople love progress. This email lets them feel part of something that’s moving forward.Email #3: Final Call to Action (December 31)Short. Direct. Clear. This message taps the shoulder of every well-meaning procrastinator who meant to give but didn’t get to it yet.Include:A simple reminder that today is the last day for a tax-deductible giftA quick tie-back to impactOne big, obvious call to actionNo pressure. No guilt. Just clarity.4 Principles That Strengthen Every EmailNo matter which of the three emails you're writing, keep these in mind:One message per email - don’t cram in everything.Make the call to action obvious - buttons, not buried links.Stay consistent with your brand voice - warm, relational, mission-focused.Write to one person - not a group. “You” is your power word.Don’t Forget: Subject Lines & Preview TextIf they never open the email, nothing else matters. Matt includes sample subject lines like:Your impact this December mattersOne story worth reading todayWill you help us finish the year strong?Preview text should support, not repeat the subject line. Examples:A quick update before the year endsHere’s how your generosity changes lives⚙️ Practical Tips for the Overwhelmed TeamPlain text is perfectly fine - it feels personal.Batch all three emails - write them in one sitting.Imperfect but sent beats perfect but too late.You don’t need to be big to communicate well. You just need to be clear, consistent, and human.Mentioned in This EpisodeFree Resource: From Dream to Action: Your Nonprofit Pre-Launch Checklist Email matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com or visit nonprofitlaunchplan.com to download.Final ThoughtIf you write and schedule these three emails: one story, one update, one reminder - you’ll already be ahead of the majority of small nonprofits. And your donors will thank you with their generosity.

In this episode of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits, Matt digs into one of the biggest barriers to nonprofit effectiveness: clutter. Not the kind in your hall closet, but the kind that shows up in your donor messaging, your schedule, your internal processes, and even your website. Pulling inspiration from Greg McKeown’s book Essentialism, Matt explores the transformative question: “If I didn’t already have this, would I invest in it?” and shows nonprofit leaders how applying that single question can create more clarity, impact, and freedom in the work they do. This conversation will challenge you to rethink what you’re holding onto, and what you need to let go. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stretched too thin, or unsure how to communicate your mission clearly, this episode will help you simplify and refocus on what truly matters.What You’ll LearnWhy messaging naturally drifts toward clutter - and how to reverse itHow to evaluate every communication piece using a single Essentialist questionWhy overloaded calendars keep nonprofit leaders stuckHow eliminating “legacy tasks” can give you back mental space and reduce burnoutWhy most nonprofit websites confuse donors, and what to remove firstHow “less but better” thinking leads to a healthier, more impactful organizationKey TakeawaysClarity beats information. Donors don’t need more words... they need the right ones.Your schedule reflects your priorities. If a task isn’t essential, it’s a distraction.Your website is a billboard, not a filing cabinet. Make it simple, skimmable, and donor-focused.Decluttering is leadership. Removing what no longer serves your mission helps you focus on what does.“Less, but better” should guide your messaging, your work, and your systems.Mentioned in This EpisodeEssentialism by Greg McKeownFree resource: From Dream to Action: Your Nonprofit Pre-Launch Checklist Email Matt at matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com or visit nonprofitlaunchplan.com to get your copy.If You’re New HereThis podcast helps startup, small, and growing nonprofits build strong foundations across six key areas: leadership, fundraising, marketing, programs, operations, and finances. Each episode gives you practical tools and frameworks to help you launch confidently and grow strategically.Connect with MattWebsite: nonprofitlaunchplan.com Email: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com LinkedIn: Matt Stockman | LinkedIn

In this second part of his conversation with veteran nonprofit leader Tom Atema, host Matt Stockman dives deeper into the heart of leadership and fundraising. With over 50 years of experience leading organizations like Heart for Lebanon, John Maxwell’s Equip, and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, Tom shares timeless wisdom for nonprofit founders and fundraisers on how to build meaningful relationships, steward donors well, and lead from a place of value—not pressure.If you’ve ever struggled with donor burnout, awkward asks, or the tension between mission and money, this episode is for you.💡 In This Episode You’ll Learn:Why “everything rises and falls on leadership.” Leadership is more than strategy—it’s about helping people see their God-given value and leading with integrity and purpose.The ideal size of a donor portfolio. Tom breaks down how many donor relationships a development officer can realistically manage (and why major donors require more care).The “cell phone test” for measuring real relationships. How to know whether your donor connections are truly personal—and why you should never give away a donor’s number before trust is earned.How to handle donor handoffs the right way. Step-by-step, Tom explains how to introduce a new development officer without losing relationships or momentum.Quarterly “Investor Calls” that mirror Wall Street. A brilliant idea from Heart for Lebanon—30-minute calls that combine storytelling, financial transparency, and donor engagement.How to build a healthy, accountable board. Tom outlines the difference between funding, operational, and governing boards—and why accountability boards drive sustainable impact.Why development officers burn out—and how to prevent it. Stop chasing money. Start developing people. Fundraising becomes joyful when it’s relational, not transactional.🧭 Key Quotes“You tell me how many people’s cell phone numbers you have in your phone, and I’ll tell you how good you are with relationships.” — Tom Atema"Don’t chase money. Add value to people, and let God handle the outcomes.” — Tom Atema“Leadership is a bigger deal than you think. Everything rises and falls on it.” — Tom Atema🔗 Resources MentionedFree PDF: From Dream to Action: Your Nonprofit Pre-Launch Checklist 10 essential steps to move from idea to impact. 👉 Get it at NonprofitLaunchPlan.com or email Matt at matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.comFree Mini-Course: Fearless Fundraising A workbook and 5 short videos to help you build clear, confident fundraising messaging. 👉 Download at NonprofitLaunchPlan.com🙌 About the Guest: Tom AtemaTom Atema is the co-founder and Chairman of Heart for Lebanon, a faith-based organization providing education, humanitarian relief, and the Gospel to Syrian refugees in Lebanon. He’s served in senior leadership roles at John Maxwell’s Equip, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, and Word of Life Fellowship. Tom brings five decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, development, and strategic partnerships—always centered around people, not transactions.🧩 Episode TakeawaysCarry the right-sized portfolio—don’t overload your relationships.Earn trust one conversation at a time.Keep donors close with transparent quarterly calls.Let your board support momentum, not be the momentum.Above all, add value to people and let God handle the rest.🎧 Listen & SubscribeBe sure to subscribe to The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast so you don’t miss future episodes, and please leave a review to help other nonprofit leaders discover the show.➡️ Share this episode with another nonprofit founder or development officer who needs encouragement to lead with purpose, not pressure.

In this episode of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits, host Matt Stockman sits down with veteran nonprofit leader Tom Atema, co-founder of Heart for Lebanon and former VP with John Maxwell’s Equip. With more than 50 years of experience in ministry and development work, Tom shares timeless, faith-driven wisdom on what it really means to build meaningful relationships with your donors—what he calls investors.You’ll discover how to approach every gift, no matter the size, as the start of a relationship… not a transaction. Tom unpacks practical habits that turn small gifts into long-term partnerships and shares powerful stories that will challenge how you think about stewardship, gratitude, and generosity.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:What truly defines a major donor (hint: it’s not about the dollar amount)Why every donor deserves a personal thank-youHow small first-time gifts can become transformational partnershipsWhy stories matter more than numbers in donor communicationHow relational follow-up builds trust and deepens engagementMemorable Quote“Some of those $25 gifts are test gifts. They’re not about the money—they’re asking, ‘Do you see me? Do you care?’” — Tom AtemaFree Resource Mentioned📘 From Dream to Action: Your Nonprofit Pre-Launch Checklist - 10 essential steps to move from nonprofit IDEA to IMPACT. 👉 Download free at nonprofitlaunchplan.com or email matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.comFearless Fundraising Mini Course - Get it here 👉 Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for NonprofitsNext Episode TeaserDon’t miss Part 2 of this conversation with Tom Atema next week! We’ll dig into scaling your donor relationships, transferring trust to new team members, running quarterly “investor calls,” and how to stop chasing money—and start adding value to people.Connect with Matt💻 www.nonprofitlaunchplan.com 📧 matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com 🔗 Follow on LinkedIn

If you’ve ever felt like every week starts from zero — or like every day is more reactive than proactive — this episode is for you. Matt Stockman breaks down how to escape the constant cycle of overwhelm by creating what he calls your Nonprofit Operations Flywheel: a simple set of systems that give your organization rhythm, predictability, and peace of mind.In this practical, step-by-step episode, Matt walks you through five systems (or “gears”) that keep your nonprofit running smoothly — even when you’re short on time, staff, or energy:The Planning System – How to set clear 90-day goals tied to your long-term vision so your team can stay proactive, not reactive.The People System – Creating meeting rhythms, clear roles, and communication patterns that keep everyone aligned and engaged.The Process System – Why documenting repeatable tasks saves your sanity — and how to start with just one.The Information System – Organizing your data, donor info, and documents into one “source of truth” your team can trust.The Review System – How to build rhythms for reflection and improvement so your team keeps learning and growing.Matt also shares a powerful story of a small nonprofit that went from chaos to clarity in just six months by implementing these systems — proving that lasting change comes from consistent structure, not more effort.🧭 Key TakeawaysMost nonprofit burnout isn’t caused by too much work — it’s caused by unclear systems.Systems create peace of mind, predictability, and long-term sustainability.You don’t need complex software or big teams — just consistent rhythms.When you build your operations flywheel, you move from reacting to leading.📈 Free Resources MentionedFrom Dream to Action: Your Nonprofit Pre-Launch Checklist — 10 essential steps to move your idea toward impact.Fearless Fundraising Mini-Course — A free workbook and video series to help you clarify your message and attract more donors.Both are available at nonprofitlaunchplan.com.🎧 Listen If You’re Asking…“Why does my nonprofit always feel like it’s starting over?”“How can I get out of reactive mode and create consistency?”“What systems do I need to actually grow my organization?”“How can I get my time and brainpower back as a leader?”🔗 Call to ActionReady to design your own operations flywheel? Book a free 30-minute discovery call with Matt at nonprofitlaunchplan.com to get personal guidance on building systems that bring clarity and calm to your nonprofit.

Complexity quietly chokes far too many nonprofits—large and small. Spreadsheets multiply, meetings take over calendars, and software stacks pile up in the name of “getting organized.” But the truth is, the best-run nonprofits are not the ones that are more complicated—they’re the ones that are simpler.In this episode, Matt Stockman breaks down how unnecessary complexity creeps into nonprofit operations, planning, and technology—and how to fight back with clarity and focus. Whether you’re still in the dreaming phase or already running programs, you’ll learn practical steps to strip away the clutter and lead with simplicity.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Why complexity is quietly choking so many nonprofitsThe difference between a 40-page strategic plan and a 3-page action plan—and why the latter works betterHow to reverse-engineer your nonprofit’s growth by starting with a 10-year vision, then backing up to 5-year, 1-year, and 90-day goalsThe importance of auditing your technology stack to eliminate overlap and confusionHow simplicity builds trust, improves communication, and accelerates impactPractical Takeaways:Flip your planning process: Start with your 10-year vision, then work backward to today’s 90-day goals.Simplify your tools: Audit your apps, systems, and subscriptions annually—if a volunteer can’t learn it in five minutes, it’s too complicated.Revisit your vision yearly: Reassess your long-term goals each year to keep them relevant and achievable.Resources Mentioned:🧭 Free Guide: From Dream to Action — Your Nonprofit Pre-Launch Checklist (10 Essential Steps) → Email Matt at matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com or grab it via the website pop-up.💡 Free Mini-Course: Fearless Fundraising — A five-part video and workbook series to help you build clear, compelling donor messaging.👥 Guest Mention: David Watters – Simple & Engaging david@simpleandengaging.com (episode referenced on nonprofit tech and automation)Connect with Matt: 🌐 www.nonprofitlaunchplan.com 📧 matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com 🔗 LinkedInQuote of the Episode:“Simplicity isn’t laziness—it’s excellent leadership.”

Leadership expert Max Dupree once said, “We cannot become what we want by remaining where we are.” In this episode of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, host Matt Stockman unpacks one of the biggest leadership hurdles nonprofit leaders face — decision paralysis.Whether it’s keeping a struggling team member too long, clinging to a tired fundraising event, or avoiding an uncomfortable board conversation, decision paralysis can quietly stall your mission’s growth. Matt shares the real reasons leaders get stuck and walks you through a simple, 3-step framework to start making confident, courageous decisions that move your organization forward.You’ll Learn:Why even strong nonprofit leaders struggle to make tough decisionsThe 3 common ways leaders avoid hard choices — and how to stop doing themHow indecision drains team morale, donor trust, and organizational momentumA practical, 3-step plan to break free from paralysis and take actionHow clarity and courage in leadership set your nonprofit up for long-term successResources Mentioned:💥 Fearless Fundraising Mini Course — Get the workbook and 5 short videos to help you build fundraising clarity and confidence.➡️ Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits🚀 From Dream to Action: Your Nonprofit Pre-Launch Checklist — 10 steps to move your nonprofit idea from concept to impact.📧 Email matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com or visit nonprofitlaunchplan.com

One of the biggest mistakes startup and small nonprofits make is trying to serve too many people with too broad of a mission. The result? Your message gets fuzzy, donors aren’t sure exactly who they’re helping, and your programs end up stretched thin.The truth is this: clarity creates impact. Donors don’t give to “programs” or “initiatives”—they give to change a life. They want to see a face, know a name, and understand exactly what difference their gift is making. That all starts with one essential step: identifying your beneficiary.In this episode of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits, Matt Stockman walks you through a practical process to get crystal clear on exactly who your nonprofit exists to serve. With the help of three powerful questions and a simple framework, you’ll learn how to create a “target beneficiary profile” that will help you focus your compassion, sharpen your messaging, and design programs that meet real needs.Matt also shares why narrowing your focus doesn’t limit your reach—it strengthens your effectiveness. You’ll hear examples of how this kind of clarity transforms donor communication and see how it leads to stronger fundraising, better resource allocation, and more meaningful impact.Whether you’re dreaming of starting a nonprofit or leading one that’s already running, this episode will give you the tools to clarify your mission, communicate with confidence, and inspire donors to join your cause.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why trying to help “everyone” can actually weaken your nonprofit’s impactA simple way to clarify exactly who your nonprofit servesThe 3 questions every nonprofit leader should ask when identifying their beneficiaryHow to build a target beneficiary profile (and why it’s a game-changer for your messaging)Practical examples of stronger donor appeals when you know your beneficiaryHow clarity about your beneficiary leads to better programs, more efficient use of resources, and more compelling fundraisingResources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:Fearless Fundraising Mini Course (Free) – a workbook + 5 short videos to help you clarify your fundraising message and remove the stress of asking for donationsFrom Dream to Action: Your Nonprofit Pre-Launch Checklist (Free PDF) – 10 steps to move your nonprofit idea to impact (email matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com to request your copy)Take Action Challenge: This week, take the time to create your nonprofit’s target beneficiary profile. Write it down. Give them a name. Describe their needs, their challenges, and what success would look like in their life. Share it with your team and let it guide how you design programs, write emails, and ask donors to give.When you know exactly who you’re helping, you don’t just build a nonprofit—you build trust, connection, and lasting impact.

Making an emotional connection with your donors is key to fundraising success. But what happens when that emotional momentum hits a digital wall?So often, the moment a donor is ready to make a gift, the experience on your website feels different, broken, or disconnected—and that can cost you a donation and, more importantly, the trust you’ve worked so hard to build.In this episode, host Matt Stockman dives into the crucial user experience through the whole donor journey—from clicking a button to completing the gift. He's joined by Cari Kates, Director of Digital Content at Pillar Media, to walk us through how to make sure each step of the digital giving process is as powerful as your initial ask.This discussion falls under the Fundraising (Development) core area of a strong nonprofit.Key Takeaways & Topics CoveredBrand Consistency is King: Learn why maintaining your organization's logo, colors, font, and language on your giving platform is vital for building donor trust and avoiding suspicion when financial data is requested.The Seamless Donor Journey: The experience from your original ask (e.g., in an email) to the landing page must be consistent. Ensure suggested gift amounts and mission language match the communication that prompted the click.Restate the "Why": The donation page often feels the most transactional. We discuss how to use this space to share an impact story, revisit your mission, and remind donors of the emotional "why" that motivated their gift.The Power of the Confirmation: Don't treat the confirmation email as an afterthought or just a receipt. Maximize this opportunity to say thank you, remind the donor of the impact their generosity will make, and provide details on next steps for their gift.Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeFree Resources to Launch and Fuel Your Nonprofit:Fearless Fundraising Mini Course: A simple 5-step framework including a workbook and videos to give you clarity on your fundraising messaging and a gameplan for inviting partners.Get it free now at: Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for NonprofitsFrom Dream To Action: Your Nonprofit Pre-Launch Checklist: A free PDF resource detailing 10 essential steps for moving your nonprofit IDEA to IMPACT.Email Matt to request it: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.comLook for the pop-out on the website: nonprofitlaunchplan.comBook A Free Call with Matt: Contact | Nonprofit Launch Plan Email Matt: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com Find Matt on LinkedIn: (1) Matt Stockman | LinkedIn Get My Free Fearless Fundraising Mini Course: Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits

Fundraising is the lifeblood of your nonprofit—but it doesn’t have to leave you and your team exhausted. In this episode, host Matt Stockman shares five common fundraising practices that drain small nonprofit leaders of their limited energy and capacity. More importantly, he offers practical alternatives that build sustainability, trust, and stronger donor relationships.What you’ll learn in this episode:Why relying solely on events can burn months of effort for little reward—and how to redirect that energy into building individual donor relationships.The hidden costs of chasing grants too early and why building systems, donors, and outcomes first sets you up for long-term success.How constantly chasing new donors can distract you from nurturing the ones you already have—and why donor retention is your greatest ROI.Why weak messaging is like using a dull axe—and how sharpening your story creates clarity, connection, and results.The trap of chasing big one-time gifts while neglecting recurring giving—and how even a small monthly giving program creates stability and deeper commitment.Resources mentioned in this episode:Fearless Fundraising Mini Course – Free workbook + videos to clarify your messaging and build a fundraising plan you can confidently use.From Dream to Action: Your Nonprofit Pre-Launch Checklist – Free guide with 10 essential steps to move your nonprofit idea into impact.If you’ve been feeling stretched thin or stuck in fundraising that doesn’t move the needle, this episode will help you refocus your energy on what truly works.Subscribe & Share: Don’t miss future episodes of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits! Subscribe now, and if you found this episode helpful, share it with another nonprofit leader who could use these tools.www.nonprofitlaunchplan.comEmail Matt: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.comLinkedIn: Matt Stockman | LinkedIn

How do you build lasting trust with donors when your nonprofit is small and your budget is limited? In this episode of the Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, Matt takes a deep dive into one of the most recognized nonprofits in the world—Charity: Water—and uncovers what every small or startup nonprofit can learn from their approach.You’ll discover:The 100% Model and how you can adapt it even if you don’t have a network of wealthy donors.Charity: Water’s new Waterproof donor platform and three simple ways you can replicate the idea without expensive tech.Why closing the loop with donors matters, and how milestone updates and simple impact reports can inspire repeat giving.Practical steps you can take this week to build your own version of donor transparency—even in just 60 minutes.Matt also shares free resources to help you strengthen your fundraising and nonprofit launch plan:Fearless Fundraising Framework – a free workbook + video series to take the fear out of donor conversations.From Dream to Action: Nonprofit Pre-Launch Checklist – 10 essential steps to move your nonprofit idea toward impact.🎧 Listen in to learn how you can wow donors, build trust, and grow your nonprofit—even without a massive budget or tech team.👉 Resources mentioned in this episode:Fearless Fundraising Mini CourseFrom Dream to Action Pre-Launch ChecklistEmail Matt: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.comFind Matt on LinkedIn: (1) Matt Stockman | LinkedIn

In this episode of the Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, host Matt Stockman addresses a common fear among nonprofit leaders: annoying their donors. He explains that most donors actually stop giving because they don't hear from the organization, not because they lose interest. Matt breaks down why donor communication isn't a transactional obligation, but a way to build a relationship based on trust and consistency. He shares a powerful story of a nonprofit leader who only communicated during a campaign and was essentially "ghosting" their donors. He argues that a donor's financial gift is an intimate act, a desire for a relationship with your organization.Matt provides a practical framework to build a systematic and sincere communication rhythm that will help you grow a donor base that is loyal and engaged for the long term.In this episode, you will learn:The Donor Communication Rhythm: Matt outlines a four-step framework for staying in touch with donors:Immediate Thank You (within 48 hours): This should be a personal touch—a phone call, a handwritten note, or a video message—that is separate from the automated gift receipt.Impact Follow-up (within a few weeks): Share a specific story or update on how the donor's gift was used to make a difference.Ongoing Rhythm (at least monthly): Integrate donors into a regular communication flow, such as a monthly newsletter or impact story email.Special Touches (throughout the year): Add personal touches on a donor's birthday or the anniversary of their first gift to remind them you see them as an individual.Pro Tips for Donor Communication: Matt offers additional advice for building strong relationships, including:Mix it up: Use a variety of communication methods like email, phone calls, and handwritten notes.Keep it donor-centered: Always make the donor the hero of the story. For example, instead of "Our nonprofit raised $10,000," say, "Because of your generosity, you helped put meals on 50 family tables".Don't overthink it: Sincerity beats polish every time. A heartfelt message today is better than a perfect one a month from now.Batch your work: Matt encourages leaders to dedicate intentional time each week to donor communication to make it a consistent habit that isn't overwhelming.Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Fearless Fundraising Mini Course: A free workbook and five short videos to help you get clarity on your fundraising messaging and create a game plan. Available for free on the website, www.nonprofitlaunchplan.com."From Dream to Action: Your Nonprofit Pre-Launch Checklist": A free PDF with 10 essential steps for moving from a nonprofit idea to a launch plan. Get it by emailing Matt at matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com or looking for it on the website.Book A Free Call with Matt: Contact | Nonprofit Launch PlanEmail Matt: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.comFind Matt on LinkedIn: (1) Matt Stockman | LinkedInGet My Free Fearless Fundraising Mini Course: Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits