Soapbox Engage Blog

Issue 288

Happy Tuesday, Fundraisers!

February is here, and with it comes a good moment to zoom out and take stock. This week’s roundup invites a strategic lens: what needs to be reinforced, what risks need attention, and where small shifts can create lasting stability.

Scroll down for perspectives on donor trust and retention, guidance on making monthly giving a true priority, and practical considerations for financial risk, DAF giving, and board engagement. We’re also looking ahead at how tools like auction software and generative AI are shaping the future of nonprofit operations.

Enjoy!

You can receive the Fundraising Weekly newsletter each Tuesday by subscribing today!

Happy Monday, Trailblazers!

We’re kicking off February with some exciting news: our first NPSP Day of 2026 is heading to New York! This topic-specific NPSP Fundraising Day will focus on fundraising for nonprofits using Salesforce, and we can’t wait to bring the community together for a day of learning, sharing, and connection.

Alongside that announcement, this week’s roundup includes upcoming webinars, fresh ideas from the community, and thoughtful reads on everything from test data to nonprofit tech transitions. Scroll on to explore what’s new!

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The difference between an average nonprofit auction and an exceptional one isn't luck. It's strategy.

After analyzing data from hundreds of successful fundraising auctions and interviewing development directors who consistently exceed goals, we've identified the specific practices that separate top performers from struggling events. These aren't theoretical concepts. They're battle-tested strategies that organizations use to maximize revenue while creating donor experiences that strengthen long-term relationships.

As nonprofit fundraising evolves, so do the expectations supporters bring to events like silent auctions and charity galas. Whether organizations are moving away from spreadsheets and paper bid sheets or simply trying to raise more with less effort, choosing the right auction software can make all the difference.

In 2026, the best nonprofit auction platforms share one thing in common. They do not just replace paper systems. They transform how communities participate, give, and stay engaged throughout an event.

Issue 287

Happy Tuesday, Fundraisers!

As January winds down, we’re focusing in on building the foundations that keep fundraising strong and sustainable all year. From strengthening donor trust and relationships to using systems and technology more effectively, these pieces center on long-term impact.

You’ll also find ideas for supporting your team and leadership, running more energizing meetings, and increasing event impact without burning out. Here’s to moving into the rest of the year with clarity and confidence!

You can receive the Fundraising Weekly newsletter each Tuesday by subscribing today!

Happy Monday, Trailblazers!

As we wrap up the first month of the new year, it’s inspiring to see how Trailblazers jumped right in to sharing ideas, running events, and building new solutions. From virtual events like sprints and AMA sessions to tips on reporting and donor mapping, this community is full of knowledge, curiosity, and collaboration.

Keep scrolling to catch the latest recaps, resources, and innovative ideas from the Trailblazer Community!

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Issue 286

Happy Tuesday, Fundraisers!

As we settle into the rhythm of the new year, this week’s newsletter is a reminder that momentum is built through thoughtful, consistent action. From why there’s no such thing as “later” for individual donors to smart ways to stay in touch, remove friction, and deepen relationships, these pieces focus on doing the right things early (and well!).

You’ll also find insights on identifying hidden major donors, turning year-end supporters into second-time givers, and the habits that can set you up for stronger results in 2026. Let us know what you think!

You can receive the Fundraising Weekly newsletter each Tuesday by subscribing today!

Happy Monday, Trailblazers!

January is already moving fast, and the Salesforce nonprofit community is clearly starting the year strong. From upcoming Ask Me Anything sessions and a Virtual Community Sprint to thoughtful discussions about NPSP data models and ideas shaping Nonprofit Cloud, there’s no shortage of momentum (or things to dig into).

Below you’ll find a mix of events, release resources, community questions, and fresh ideas. Perfect whether you’re planning your 2026 roadmap or just looking for a spark of inspiration to kick off the week!

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Trust from supporters is the primary “currency” of the nonprofit sector. While financial donations fuel your mission, their trust in your organization is what motivates them to continue supporting you.

However, the Edelman Trust Barometer, a survey of the general public designed to quantify and understand trust in governments, businesses, and nonprofits, found that this trust might be in trouble. In 2025, 61% of respondents held grievances against the government, businesses, and the wealthy, a trend that is now eroding trust in all institutions.

Issue 285

Happy Tuesday, Fundraisers!

We hope 2026 is off to a smooth and steady start for you. As the year gains momentum, this week’s roundup focuses on sharpening the fundamentals that make fundraising work: capturing attention from the first line of an appeal, deepening donor motivation, and strengthening the follow-through that builds lasting trust.

You’ll also find practical guidance for energizing campaigns, navigating event-day challenges, and setting your organization up for success in the year ahead. Onward!

You can receive the Fundraising Weekly newsletter each Tuesday by subscribing today!

Happy Monday, Trailblazers!

We hope your 2026 is off to a fantastic start! Whether you’ve jumped right into projects or are still finding your rhythm after the holidays, here’s to a year full of new opportunities, learning, and wins for you and your organizations.

Scroll down for the latest ideas, resources, and conversations from the Trailblazer Community—there’s always a spark of inspiration waiting to help you tackle your next challenge!

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Issue 284

Happy Tuesday, Fundraisers, and welcome to the first Fundraising Weekly of 2026! We hope you’re feeling rested, recharged, and ready to ease into the year ahead.

This week’s roundup is a reminder that meaningful progress doesn’t require perfection. You’ll find reflections on showing up authentically, listening to real voices, and building smarter, more human fundraising strategies—from prospect research and corporate sponsorships to stewarding donors year-round and amplifying giving days through your community.

Here’s to a thoughtful, steady start to 2026!

You can receive the Fundraising Weekly newsletter each Tuesday by subscribing today!

Happy Monday, Trailblazers! And happy New Year!

Welcome to the very first PUB Crawl newsletter of 2026. I hope you were able to step away, rest up, and soak in some well-deserved downtime before jumping back in. As we turn the page on a new year, there’s a lot to look forward to: fresh ideas, new challenges, and plenty of opportunities to keep building impact together.

Scroll on for the latest questions, insights, and wins from the Trailblazer Community to help you start the year feeling inspired and ready for what’s ahead.

Don't forget, you can have the goodness of the PUB Crawl delivered into your inbox each Monday morning by subscribing today!

Issue 283

Happy Tuesday, fundraisers!

As we close out the year, we’re wishing you a happy New Year and a joyful start to what comes next! This week’s roundup is focused on reflection and readiness: what we can learn from 2025 and how to prepare for a more resilient, connected 2026.

Below, you’ll find insights on fundraising trends for 2026, ways to diversify revenue and reduce risk, and reminders that thoughtful stewardship and genuine connection are what sustain donor relationships over time. It’s a fitting note to end the year on—and to begin the next one with clarity and intention! Enjoy!

You can receive the Fundraising Weekly newsletter each Tuesday by subscribing today!

Happy Monday, Trailblazers!

It’s hard to believe we’ve just about made it to the end of the year. As 2025 comes to a close, I just want to pause and say thank you for everything you’ve shared, built, supported, and solved together in this community. The generosity, curiosity, and care you bring to this space truly make it something special.

Wherever you’re reading this from (whether you’re easing back into work, taking a few quiet days off, or planning what’s next), I hope you’re able to reflect on how much you’ve accomplished this year. Wishing you a peaceful end to 2025 and a happy, hopeful New Year ahead. I can’t wait to see what we build together in 2026.

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2026 is shaping up to be a year where smart tech, donor-first relationship strategies, and events-driven revenue converge. Nonprofits that invest in better donor experiences (from personalized outreach powered by AI to frictionless mobile giving and hybrid events) will be best positioned to grow sustainable revenue.

This article dives into 8 top fundraising trends for nonprofits to watch and concrete ways your team can respond, including how Soapbox Engage’s online engagement tools can help you capitalize on each trend. Here’s to new terrain and growth in 2026!

Happy Monday, Trailblazers!

Wow, 2025 is almost behind us! As we wrap up the year, I’ve been reflecting on all the incredible work this community has shared, solved, and celebrated together (particularly those of you who have been able to join me in person for NPSP Days!). It’s been inspiring to see the creativity, collaboration, and sheer energy you bring to the Trailblazer Community every day.

Keep scrolling for the latest tips, insights, and highlights. There’s sure to be something that sparks a new idea or makes your day a little easier as we head into 2026!

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Heading into 2026, nonprofit leaders are being asked to do more with less while still delivering meaningful impact. As funding sources fluctuate and supporter expectations evolve, ecommerce has become a practical, sustainable way for nonprofits to generate revenue, strengthen engagement, and build long-term resilience.

In today’s nonprofit climate, ecommerce isn’t about “selling things online.” It’s about creating mission-aligned revenue channels that integrate directly with your fundraising, membership, and CRM strategy. The Soapbox Engage Shop app helps nonprofits do exactly that, without unnecessary complexity.

On December 4, we wrapped up our final NPSP Day of the 2025 year at the Friends Center in Philadelphia, a warm, welcoming venue for a day of community-driven learning, problem-solving, and hands-on collaboration. It was wonderful to welcome several folks from the Soapbox Engage community (thanks, YMCA of Greater Brandywine!) as well as to reconnect with longtime nonprofit tech experts like Michael Kolodner and Marcus Iannozzi.

As with every NPSP Day, we kicked things off with morning networking over coffee, followed by an opening circle, an NPSP weather report, and a forward-looking conversation with Idlewild about the evolution of nonprofit CRM strategy.

Issue 280

Happy Tuesday, fundraisers!

This week’s roundup is packed with ideas to finish the year strong. From creative fundraising inspiration and welcoming new donors to building digital communities and optimizing year-end giving, there’s plenty to spark new strategies and fuel your fundraising momentum. Enjoy!

You can receive the Fundraising Weekly newsletter each Tuesday by subscribing today!