Soapbox Engage Blog

Issue 48

Happy Tuesday, fundraisers! Today I wanted to take a moment to highlight an incredible resource we recently added to our website. Did you know that the three key components of effective fundraising are storytelling, relationships, and optimization? Did you know that we have a free guide that takes a deep dive into each of these components?

We're so excited to share our Guide to Online Fundraising in a fresh and more accessible way! Check it out to learn the basics, and much more. And of course, enjoy perusing the wonderful list of fundraising gems we’ve highlighted below.

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Great Fundraising Posts

Grant Application Basics: A Guide for Nonprofits

Tim Forbes (Soapbox Engage)

Many development professionals fear and hate applying for grants because the application process has gained a reputation for being long, tedious, and involving complicated paperwork. However, finding and applying for grants doesn’t need to be a horrible, evil experience, especially if you’re prepared and applying for the right grants. This blog offers some details, insights, and wisdom from experts to help you survive and thrive in the grant application process!

Wrong Ways to Woo Nonprofit Donors

Claire Axelrad (Clairification)

The one thing every nonprofit needs to sustain it through the good times and bad is a steady, reliable source of funds from loyal donors. But these donors don’t usually just stick around indefinitely--only about 20% of first-time donors continue to give. But why? In many cases, it comes down to donor care and good communication. Claire points out some of the common pitfalls and wrong ways to “woo” donors and offers some better strategies and steps you can take to build strong relationships with your donors.

A Direct Mail Fundraiser’s Best Friend Just Might Be Digital

Christy McWilliams (NonProfit PRO)

Are you ever tempted to think of your online efforts and “offline” fundraising as separate and distinct parts of your fundraising? It’s easy to fall into this line of thinking, but here, Christy shares why a fully integrated program can get you better fundraising results. This blog specifically focuses on how to use your online platforms to boost your direct mail performance.

5 Facebook Ad Campaign Tests You Should Try Today

Alison Turmelle (Good Works)

Facebook advertising is gaining popularity among nonprofits because it provides an opportunity to present compelling content to new and potential donors. Just like with email content and appeals, it’s important to test different approaches to see what connects with your audience. Head over to this blog to get five great ideas of things to test in your next Facebook campaign.

Why Your Back Office is Losing You Money

Richard Perry and Jeff Schreifels (Veritus Group)

Have you ever purchased something and had a wonderful experience with the initial purchasing and use experience but found yourself frustrated when you need a little technical or customer support? No matter how good your “donor-facing” or “front office” is, you need a good, donor-sensitive back office as well! In this blog, Richard and Jeff help you assess your back office and ensure you’re not falling prey to seven common problems.

The 5 C’s of Good Nonprofit Communication

Ann Green (Ann Green)

When you’re writing fundraising content, whether it’s a thank you note or a donation request, it’s critical to follow Ann’s “5 C’s of good nonprofit communication” to ensure you’re communicating clearly and getting the results you want. Head over to this blog post to re-visit these “5 C’s” and give your written communication a bit of a boost this summer.

The Race You Want to Lose

Larry C Johnson (NonProfit PRO)

While technology has made it easy to communicate quickly and easily, there are pros and cons. It’s great if you’re trying to get information out quickly in an emergency, but most of the time it’s a race for cheap attention. Social media does have its uses, especially when you learn who will naturally support you by mutual interest, then plan how to reach them! This blog will help you do just that!

Why You Should Run Your Nonprofit Like a Business

Sandy Rees (Get Fully Funded)

Though the focus of every nonprofit is to do good and make a difference in the world, it’s critical to think (and treat) your nonprofit like a business. But what does that actually mean? What does it look like? Of course, you need a budget, policies, processes, and other systems, but you’ll also need to create a marketing plan, a brand, and even a target audience! Sandy shares some valuable insights about what it looks like to run your nonprofit like a business and why this is so important.

5 Proven Tactics That Encourage Nonprofit Monthly Giving

Jeremy Haselwood (Jeremy Haselwood)

While seasonal fundraising and annual gifts can make up a large portion of your annual fundraising, they don’t really provide the same reliable income that monthly donors offer. Building a monthly giving program does take a little more effort and time, but it’s a reliable way to sustain your nonprofit and be able to create long-term plans. Head over to this blog to get some valuable insights on how to successfully build a monthly giving program for your organization.