For those new to the nonprofit space, the difference between development and fundraising may seem unclear. Common definitions such as “asking for donations” and “asking for major donations” may seem like splitting hairs and cause some to wonder why the distinction is made in the first place.

However, there is a fundamental difference between the two, a difference that leads to happier, more connected donors and a happier, less-stressed fundraising team. To help explore that difference, this article will discuss:

Schools are starting again. The Pumpkin Spice Latte is rumored to return to Starbucks menu any day now. So, although you might not be thinking so, it’s time to start talking about Giving Tuesday. This global giving day will be here before we know it. Though there's a moderate push to make it more of a weekly endeavor, the global Giving Tuesday event traditionally takes place the day after "Cyber Monday" (November 28, 2023).

Year after year, shared moments like holidays or giving days (like Giving Tuesday) create a sense of connection for donors to understand they're part of something bigger than themselves.

Monthly or recurring donations are one of the easiest ways for nonprofits to boost their fundraising revenue without bringing in a lot of new donors. At a time when acquiring new donors has become more challenging, that is very valuable. This giving strategy also appeals to many donors who might not be able to make large, one-time gifts but can give smaller amounts more frequently.

With the rise in popularity of online giving, monthly giving programs are easier than ever to maintain. Before, nonprofits spent countless hours asking donors to commit to recurring giving, then track each gift and ensure donors actually followed through. Now, online giving platforms and fundraising systems can automate most of the process, freeing up time and energy and boosting revenue streams.

Donor management software is a powerful tool that helps nonprofits of every size and shape put their donor data to work on your behalf. Fundraising software helps you manage fundraising efforts and communications in one organized location. Ultimately, the right donor management software can help you learn about your donors so you can deliver better donor care, increase donations, save time, and even reduce overall fundraising costs!

The great news is that with all the options on the market, you're almost sure to find donor management software that will fit your unique needs and wants. The bad news is that it can take quite a bit of legwork to find the right software for you, and the process can feel a bit daunting. We've gathered some tips and insights to help guide your search.

Events are a critical way for nonprofits to connect with current and potential donors, share about the mission, and raise money. But planning and managing an event--whether in-person or online--can be quite a task, especially if it's an event you've never hosted before.

Whether you're planning a small gathering for your top donors or a massive event with hundreds of attendees, fundraising events require careful planning, promotion, budgeting, and many other things.

Event management tools and strategies can help you raise the most money possible at your upcoming nonprofit events and reduce the event planning stress for your entire team. We've gathered the top lessons, tips, and tools from fundraising experts to help you streamline your event management strategy!