Million Dollar Nonprofit

Embark on a journey with Tom Kelly, The Nonprofit Catalyst, right by your side, sharing all the juicy secrets to nonprofit success. We're talking about everything from cracking open the Fundraising Playbook to hanging out with some seriously cool leader in the industry. Together, we'll uncover strategies that actually work and sprinkle in some out-of-the-box ideas. So, kick back, relax, and let's have a chat about leading with purpose, connecting communities, and making a real difference. It's like catching up with a good pal over coffee, but with a mission-driven twist. Ready to dive in?

How to Create a Case for Support: Level Up Your Nonprofit Storytelling and Fundraising

Today, I sat down with Emily to explore the art and strategy behind crafting a compelling Case for Support—a powerful tool to formalize your nonprofit's storytelling, align your team, and elevate your fundraising efforts. Together, we discuss how to transform founder stories into scalable narratives, build consistency across your organization, and create lasting donor connections.Topics covered: - The difference between storytelling and a Case for Support- The 5 key elements every nonprofit needs to include- How to gather impactful data and testimonials- Tips for nonprofits in growth phases to level upLinks & Resources:Want help directly from Emily? Check out teenyBIG - https://www.teenybig.com/Connect with Emily - https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-taylor-teenybig/Connect with Tom - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/Emily's free resource - https://mailchi.mp/teenybig/strengthenstoriesWant to bring Tom to your next event? Contact us at: hello@realtomkelly.com

01-07
28:02

Are You Grant-Ready? What Every Nonprofit Needs to Know Before Applying

In this episode, Jessica , Founder & CEO @ One Degree Impact, shares expert insights on how to know if your nonprofit is truly ready to apply for grants. Grants can be a powerful tool for funding, but they come with challenges many organizations overlook. Key Takeaways:- Why grants aren’t “free money” and what it really takes to secure them.- The essential systems, financials, and team structure nonprofits need to have in place.- Examples of grants that aren’t worth the effort (and why!).- How relationship-building with funders leads to long-term grant success.- Tips for small nonprofits: Which grants are “low-hanging fruit” to start with?Who Should Watch:- Small and mid-sized nonprofits looking to scale.- Nonprofit leaders wondering if grants are the right funding strategy.- Anyone struggling with grant applications and reporting requirements.Jessica’s expertise comes from over a decade of helping nonprofits navigate the grant landscape. Whether you’re just starting out or want to improve your grant-seeking strategy, this episode provides actionable advice to help you build a foundation for success.Connect with Jessica - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jess-merrell/Connect with Tom - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/Find more about One Degree Impact - https://onedegreeimpact.com/

12-17
32:22

How to Attract Event Sponsors and Increase Nonprofit Revenue

In this episode, we're diving into event sponsorships and their immense potential for nonprofit fundraising. Joining me is Mariah Monique, an expert in event sponsorship strategies, to share actionable insights on:- Why sponsorships are a game-changer for nonprofits.- How to create long-lasting partnerships with sponsors.- Strategies to maximize sponsor engagement and ROI.- Innovative sponsorship ideas to stand out and attract local businesses.- How to align sponsors with your nonprofit’s mission and goals.Whether you're a small nonprofit just getting started or an established organization seeking new revenue streams, this episode is packed with strategies to elevate your events and impact. Discover how to leverage sponsorships to build relationships, secure unrestricted funds, and create unforgettable experiences for your community.Need help with event sponsorships? Mariah is here to help! https://www.thesponsorshipcatalyst.com/ Connect with Mariah - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thesponsorshipcatalyst/Connect with Tom - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/

12-11
40:19

Why Nonprofit Sustainability Matters and How to Achieve It

Today we are uncovering how nonprofits can achieve long-term sustainability with insights from Wendie Veloz, a social impact expert with over 15 years of experience. Wendie introduces her proven 9-dimension sustainability model, packed with actionable strategies to help your nonprofit thrive.What You'll Learn:- How to identify and stop ineffective programs while maximizing impact.- Why leadership development and teamwork are crucial for sustainability.- How to diversify funding streams for financial resilience.- Why engaging community voices strengthens your mission.- Step-by-step guidance for evaluating and refining nonprofit strategies.Connect with Tom - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/Connect with Wendie - https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendieveloz/Check out Wendie's Website! - https://wendieveloz.com/

12-03
24:53

Why Simplifying Your Message and Tailoring It to Donors Is More Important Than Ever

We are exploring the power of messaging and storytelling for nonprofit growth with Blake Benton, founder of Coming Together for a Cure. Learn how to craft authentic, compelling narratives that resonate with donors, volunteers, and the communities you serve. Discover practical tips for simplifying complex topics, tailoring your message to diverse audiences, and empowering your team to share impactful stories.Blake also gives us an exclusive look at his upcoming documentary, The Sunshine Dreamer, and shares his journey of advancing stem cell therapy to change lives.Tune in for inspiration and actionable insights that will elevate your nonprofit's messaging and impact.Connect with Tom - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/Connect with Blake - https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-benton/Learn more about Coming Together for a Cure - https://www.ctfac.org/

11-26
31:54

The Role of Boards in Nonprofit Fundraising: Insights You Can Use Today

In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit Podcast, Tom Kelly is joined by Kerri Mollard, CEO of Mollard Consulting, LLC, to explore the often misunderstood role of nonprofit boards in fundraising.Discover:The key differences between board giving and board fundraising.How to achieve 100% board participation without the pressure of direct solicitation.Practical tips for building a culture of giving and engagement.Innovative ways to measure board success and track impact.Strategies to turn board members into donors, doers, and door-openers.Kerri shares actionable steps to help your board engage authentically, thank donors effectively, and build meaningful relationships that drive fundraising success. Whether you're a nonprofit leader or board member, this episode is packed with insights to elevate your fundraising game.Connect with Kerri - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerrimollard/Check out her consulting business - https://mollardconsulting.com/

11-19
36:35

The Essential Guide to Nonprofit Email Campaigns for Donor Engagement

Join Tom Kelly and email marketing expert Kristi Scott as they explore the ins and outs of email fundraising for nonprofits. Discover why email remains one of the most effective ways to engage donors and learn how a well-crafted donor welcome sequence can build loyalty from the very first interaction.From planning your email sequence to understanding what makes a welcome email powerful, Christy shares actionable insights tailored to nonprofits of all sizes. Find out why frequent, purposeful emails are critical—even for small nonprofits—and get tips on measuring the success of your email campaigns.Plus, Kristi is offering a free three-part email sequence template for all listeners! Whether you're just starting or looking to improve your email strategy, this episode is packed with practical tips to elevate your nonprofit's donor engagement and retention.🔗 Free Resource: Download email templates for donor welcome sequences https://kscott.link/newdonorConnect with Kristi- https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristipscott/Connect with Tom - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/

11-12
31:42

Unlock Nonprofit Success: 5 Creative Metrics to Boost Impact and Donor Trust!

Tom is joined by Sean Kosofsky, aka "The Nonprofit Fixer," to discuss the top five creative metrics nonprofits should track to measure organizational effectiveness. Discover innovative ways to showcase impact beyond numbers, from leveraging technology to enhancing your reputation as "currency." Sean shares tips on resilience, building strong community relationships, and preventing challenges before they arise—all essential skills to ensure sustainable growth for any nonprofit. Whether you're a seasoned nonprofit leader or just starting, this episode offers game-changing strategies and tools to take your organization to the next level. Don’t miss out on learning how to maximize your impact, secure donor trust, and set your nonprofit on the path to raising $1 million and beyond. Key Takeaways: - Creative metrics for measuring nonprofit effectiveness - The power of technology in nonprofit operations - Building resilience and crisis planning - Enhancing nonprofit reputation and social proof Check out the full 18 nonprofit metrics you're not using but should be - https://www.nonprofitfixer.com/nonprofit-fixer-blog/18-nonprofit-metrics-youre-not-using-but-should Connect with Sean - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kosofsky/ Connect with Tom - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/

11-06
30:36

Unlock Nonprofit Growth: Fundraising Strategies for Every Generation

Tom Kelly and nonprofit expert Allison Plattsmier share actionable nonprofit fundraising strategies tailored to different generations—from Baby Boomers and Gen X to Millennials and Gen Z. Learn how to engage younger donors through mobile-friendly, social media-driven approaches, while mastering donor segmentation and strategic growth for your nonprofit. Discover how to boost donations by crafting personalized messages, and explore proven techniques to double or even triple your nonprofit’s annual revenue. Topics Covered: The importance of donor segmentation for strategic nonprofit growth Connect with Allison - https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonplattsmier/ Connect with Tom - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/

10-29
30:07

How Nonprofits Can Scale Donations with CRM: Ditch Spreadsheets for Smarter Donor Management

We dive deep into how nonprofits can scale their fundraising efforts by transitioning from outdated spreadsheets to powerful CRM systems. Joined by financial data expert Christine Robertson, we discuss the benefits of donor management systems, how personalized donor relationships can double or even triple donations, and the key CRM features every nonprofit needs to grow. If you're still using Excel or Google Sheets to manage your donor data, this episode is for you! Learn how to simplify donor management, boost fundraising efficiency, and take your nonprofit to the $1 million mark and beyond. 🎙️ Key Topics Covered: 👉 For more information on NPact, head over to their website! https://npact.com/ Connect with Christine -   / christine-robertsonky   Connect with Tom -   / tomkelly5  

10-23
31:42

The Secret to a Thriving Nonprofit: Assessing Your Board’s Performance

Tom Kelly dives deep into the critical topic of nonprofit board assessments with Gregory Nielsen, President and CEO of Nielsen Training and Consulting. Gregory shares invaluable insights on why assessing your board's performance regularly is essential for the long-term success of any nonprofit. Learn the importance of setting clear board expectations, fostering accountability, and how a strong, diverse board can significantly impact your organization’s growth. Whether you're a small nonprofit or a large organization, this conversation covers practical tips and strategies to elevate your board’s effectiveness. Don't miss out on learning how to assess and optimize your board's performance before issues arise, and discover the benefits of bringing in a third-party facilitator like Gregory to ensure your nonprofit is set up for success. Topics Covered: - Why regular board assessments are crucial for nonprofit success. - How small nonprofits can conduct effective board assessments. - The 3 D's of great board members: Doers, Donors, and Door Openers. - When to expand your board beyond friends and family. - Best practices for board recruiting and accountability. - How strategic planning ties into board assessments. 👉 For more information on board assessments and consulting services, visit Gregory’s website: nielsenconsults.com Connect with Gregory - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregory-nielsen-773a5924/ Connect with Tom - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/ About Our Channel Our channel is dedicated to providing nonprofits with the tools and strategies they need to thrive. From fundraising tactics to donor engagement tips, we cover everything you need to grow your impact. Check out our channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@realtomkelly About Our Products & Company We offer comprehensive solutions designed to help nonprofits maximize their impact and streamline their operations. Learn more about our products and services: FIND US AT https://realtomkelly.com/ FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL Stay connected and get the latest updates on our social media channels! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realtomkelly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realtomkelly Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/milliondollarnonprofit #NonprofitLeadership #BoardAssessment #NonprofitGrowth #NonprofitBoards

10-16
30:25

Crypto Philanthropy 101: Grow Your Nonprofit with Cryptocurrency Donations

In this episode of the Million Dollar Nonprofit, we dive deep into the world of cryptocurrency donations with special guest Pat Duffy, co-founder of The Giving Block. Together, they explore how nonprofits can leverage crypto donations to unlock new streams of revenue, reach younger donors, and future-proof their organizations. Pat shares valuable insights on how nonprofits can easily implement cryptocurrency donation systems and the massive tax advantages for donors. What you'll learn in this episode: - The benefits of accepting cryptocurrency for nonprofits - How to easily implement crypto donations with minimal technical knowledge - The tax advantages of donating crypto for both nonprofits and donors - How cryptocurrency can attract younger, wealthier donors - Real-world examples of successful crypto fundraising campaigns - Steps to get your nonprofit ready for Crypto Giving Tuesday Whether you're new to crypto or looking to integrate it into your fundraising strategy, this episode provides actionable steps and expert advice to get started. Learn how crypto philanthropy is reshaping the nonprofit sector and why accepting cryptocurrency could be the key to growing your donations. Don’t miss this insightful episode on the future of nonprofit fundraising with cryptocurrency! Check out The Giving Block - https://thegivingblock.com/ Connect with Pat - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisispatduffy/ Connect with Tom - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/ We’re proud to have CharityAuctionsToday as a sponsor of the Million Dollar Nonprofit Podcast. Their all-in-one platform helps nonprofits raise more with less effort, making fundraising simpler and more effective. https://www.charityauctionstoday.com/

10-08
41:49

Protect Your Nonprofit’s Future: TechSoup Tools and Cybersecurity Tips

Are you growing your nonprofit and unsure how to tackle IT and cybersecurity challenges? In this episode of the Million Dollar Nonprofit Podcast, we talk about the key steps nonprofits should take to safeguard their data, prevent cyberattacks, and set up secure processes as they scale. Jason, an IT expert with years of experience working with nonprofits, shares real-world examples, like how a small dog sanctuary was hit with ransomware, and offers practical tips for strengthening your organization's IT infrastructure. Learn why setting up policies and procedures is critical, how multi-factor authentication can be a game-changer, and how even small nonprofits can afford to implement data backups and security measures. Don't let cyber threats catch your nonprofit off guard—take action today. Topics Covered: Mentioned Resources: Find free playbooks and resources for your nonprofit at https://realtomkelly.com/ Connect with Jason - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nqcjason/ Connect with Tom - https://realtomkelly.com/ We’re proud to have CharityAuctionsToday as a sponsor of the Million Dollar Nonprofit Podcast. Their all-in-one platform helps nonprofits raise more with less effort, making fundraising simpler and more effective. https://www.charityauctionstoday.com/

10-01
31:09

From Award to Impact: Grant Management Strategies for Nonprofits

In this episode, we dive into the often overlooked post-grant process, discussing crucial steps nonprofits should take after being awarded a grant. While securing funding is exciting, it comes with the responsibility of managing those funds properly. Our guest shares key insights on maintaining compliance, fostering strong relationships with funders, and implementing simple, yet effective systems to stay on top of grant management. What You’ll Learn: How to strengthen essential relationships to support your mission. Ways to streamline your processes for better efficiency. The importance of key roles in managing your organization's success. Proven strategies to ensure you're always ready for future opportunities. The secrets behind long-term sustainability and growth. We also explore how smaller organizations can manage grants without a dedicated administrator and how they can leverage past successes for future funding. Tune in for practical advice that will help your nonprofit thrive beyond the grant award! Connect with Page and her business! https://www.linkedin.com/in/pagehinerman/ https://pagecapacitybuilders.com/ Connect with Tom https://realtomkelly.com/ We’re proud to have CharityAuctionsToday as a sponsor of the Million Dollar Nonprofit Podcast. Their all-in-one platform helps nonprofits raise more with less effort, making fundraising simpler and more effective. https://www.charityauctionstoday.com/

09-24
32:10

Building Donor Relationships: The Key to Sustainable Nonprofit Success

In this special 10-minute episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit Podcast, we explore one of the most crucial elements of sustainable fundraising—building strong donor relationships. Learn how to go beyond securing donations by creating a loyal community of supporters who are engaged, appreciated, and invested in your mission. We’ll cover personalized communication, donor retention, leveraging data, and the importance of showing genuine appreciation. Tune in for practical strategies and to help you grow and sustain meaningful relationships with your donors. If you're ready to build stronger connections, grow your impact, and transform your fundraising efforts, this episode is for you. Remember—no money, no mission.

09-18
10:31

Mastering Email Marketing for Nonprofits: Boost Fundraising & Engagement

We welcome John Walsh, a seasoned digital marketing professional, to discuss how email marketing can transform nonprofit fundraising. John explains why email is a must-have tool for nonprofits, how it complements direct mail, and how to use it to engage donors with personalized, real-time communication. Discover best practices for crafting effective emails, boosting open rates, and driving donations while staying cost-effective. John shares expert tips on email frequency, content variety, and segmentation, along with his favorite email marketing platforms for small nonprofits. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your strategy, this episode provides actionable advice to take your email campaigns to the next level. What You'll Learn: - How email marketing outshines direct mail in urgent fundraising efforts - The importance of multi-channel communication for donor engagement - Common mistakes nonprofits make with email marketing and how to avoid them - How to use segmentation and personalization to boost donor retention - Tips to improve email open rates and stay out of the spam folder - Recommended tools and strategies for crafting donor-friendly emails Connect with John - https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnwalsh13/ https://www.nonprofitcampaignlab.com/ Connect with Tom https://realtomkelly.com/ We’re proud to have CharityAuctionsToday as a sponsor of the Million Dollar Nonprofit Podcast. Their all-in-one platform helps nonprofits raise more with less effort, making fundraising simpler and more effective. https://www.charityauctionstoday.com/

09-11
45:50

Mastering Grant Writing: Strategies for Securing Nonprofit Funding

Do you want to take your nonprofit to the next level with the right grant writing strategies? In this episode of Million Dollar Insights, host Tom Kelly breaks down the art and science of writing winning grant proposals. Learn how to research and align with grant-making organizations, follow guidelines meticulously, and craft compelling narratives that captivate reviewers. Tom also dives into budgeting tips, the importance of supporting materials, and how to measure success to enhance your chances of receiving vital funding. Whether you're a seasoned grant writer or new to the process, these actionable insights will help your nonprofit thrive. Stay tuned for behind-the-scenes tips, avoid common pitfalls, and take your fundraising to the next level!

09-06
07:47

Mastering Donor Stewardship: How to Align Donor Goals with Your Nonprofit Mission

In this episode of the Million Dollar Nonprofit Podcast, we're joined by Miranda Roberts, a seasoned fundraiser and relationship builder at Foundation Communities, to dive deep into the art of donor stewardship. Discover proven strategies to align donor goals with your nonprofit's mission, ensuring long-term engagement and increased donations. Learn how to connect with donors on a personal level, understand their motivations, and communicate effectively to foster lasting relationships. Whether you're a small nonprofit or aiming to scale, this conversation is packed with actionable insights to help you reach that million-dollar donation milestone. Don't miss out on these valuable tips to boost your nonprofit's success! What You'll Learn Connect with Miranda - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mirandacagleroberts/ Connect with Tom - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/ https://realtomkelly.com/

08-28
41:20

Crafting a Winning Fundraising Strategy: A 5-Minute Guide | Million Dollar Insights

Welcome to Million Dollar Insights, a new segment with your host, Tom Kelly! In these quick, 10-minute solo episodes, we'll explore key strategies on a focused topic. Today, we’re diving into the essentials of creating a successful fundraising strategy Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your approach, a strong fundraising strategy is vital for your nonprofit’s success. In this quick guide, I’ll cover the key components of setting clear goals, identifying your target donors, leveraging various fundraising channels, and crafting compelling campaigns. Learn how to use tools like donor management systems and Google Ad Grants to maximize your impact. Tune in to discover actionable tips that you can implement right away to boost your fundraising efforts. If you find this episode valuable, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review to support our mission of delivering helpful content. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we'll explore building strong donor relationship management systems. Until then, keep pushing forward and remember, no money, no mission!

08-24
08:29

Navigating Small Nonprofits: Leadership, Strategy, and Scaling

In this episode, we dive into the unique challenges of managing small nonprofits with Conner Hampton, the Executive Director at a leading nonprofit in Wichita, Kansas. Conner shares his experiences and insights on what it takes to not only survive but thrive in the nonprofit sector. From the importance of paying yourself as a nonprofit leader to the critical role of board members, Conner provides actionable advice for anyone looking to scale their nonprofit to new heights. Whether you're struggling to balance a tight budget, seeking strategies to maximize limited resources, or figuring out how to effectively ask for help, this episode is packed with practical tips and real-life examples to guide you on your nonprofit journey. Don't miss this candid conversation that covers everything from leadership to fundraising to volunteer management, all aimed at helping small nonprofits achieve big results. Tune in to gain valuable insights and learn how to keep your mission alive while navigating the complexities of nonprofit leadership. What You’ll Learn: Connect with Conner - https://www.linkedin.com/in/conner-hampton/ Connect with Tom - realtomkelly.com

08-21
35:27

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