Author: davidsawler

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Funding Lesson #7 – Diversify

Diversify Your Funding Strategy

In the world of non-profit organizations, faith communities, and community groups, securing funding is the lifeblood that keeps these endeavors afloat. But here’s the harsh reality: a lack of funding is one of the leading causes of failure or closure for these groups. Losing a major donor, missing out on an annual grant, or experiencing a poorly performing fundraiser can deal a devastating blow to any organization.

The key to resilience in the face of these challenges is diversification. A diverse funding strategy can be your shield against the unexpected, minimizing the impact of losing a single major investor.

💡 Why Diversify?

When we acknowledge that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to financial stability, we open the doors to new opportunities. Think about it – there are countless ways to secure the resources you need. Small fundraisers, community events, strategic sponsorships, grant applications, online marketing, and networking are just a few avenues you can explore.

By diversifying your funding sources, you not only spread the risk but also expand your reach. Different funding streams mean engaging with a broader pool of supporters, introducing your cause to more people, and building a robust volunteer base.

This is where a Funding Coach steps in. They can help you assess your current funding landscape, identify areas that need attention, and chart a path to new opportunities.

🚀 Get Started Today!

Don’t wait until your organization is on the brink of financial crisis. Take control of your funding destiny and explore the world of diverse funding opportunities. The Funding Coach is here to guide you on this journey.

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Funding Lesson #6 – The Easy Give

Funding Lesson #6 – The Easy GIve

Hello, wonderful community of change-makers! 💪🌍

Today, let’s talk about a key aspect of successful fundraising: the art of effective communication. 🗣️

✨ Expressing the Needs: It’s crucial that your group clearly articulates the challenges you’re working to address. When you can express these needs in a compelling way, you make it easier for others to understand and empathize with your cause.

✨ Providing a Path for Giving: But that’s just the beginning! The next critical step is to create a straightforward, safe, and trusted channel for individuals to take immediate action. Whether it’s a donation, sponsorship, or investment, people are most likely to give when they’re initially asked. 🙏

✨ Seize the Moment: Don’t miss the opportunity to harness their goodwill and enthusiasm. Every call for action, every sharing of a need, should come hand in hand with a simple way for someone to contribute and make a difference. 🤝

In the world of fundraising, making it easy for your supporters to take action is like providing them with a bridge to positive change. 🌉 Let’s remember, every small step counts towards the greater good!

So, as you continue your journey to inspire change and make a lasting impact, never underestimate the power of a clear call to action and an accessible path for giving. 💫

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Funding Lesson #5 – Donors are Partners

In the world of non-profits, the magic happens when you realize you’re not in this journey alone. Most non-profits are on a mission to provide essential services or products that are lifelines for the communities they serve.

But they can’t do it in isolation. Non-profits exist because of the remarkable synergy between dedicated individuals and generous donors. It’s time to broaden your perspective on what constitutes your team. Beyond your staff and volunteers, your donors should be recognized as an integral part of this powerful force.

When you shift your mindset and embrace donors as partners, you’ll witness a transformation in your organization that touches every aspect of your work.

Communication is Key: When you acknowledge donors as partners, your communication becomes more inclusive and authentic. Sharing stories of impact and progress becomes a collective effort, strengthening your bonds with those who support your cause.

Value and Retain: Treating your donors as partners ensures they feel valued and appreciated. They’re more likely to stay engaged and continue their support when they know they’re a fundamental part of your team.

Amplify Giving: Donor partnerships also lead to increased giving. People are more inclined to give when they feel like they’re making a real difference and are part of something bigger.

Cultivate Gratitude: This shift in perspective fosters an atmosphere of gratitude. Donors and team members alike will feel thankful for being part of an organization that values their contributions.

So, let’s reframe our approach and make donors an essential part of the team. When donors are seen as partners, the potential for impact is boundless.

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Funding Lesson #4 – Do Less

Are you sprinting at full tilt, juggling an array of fundraising endeavors? It’s no secret that fundraising can be a demanding endeavor, requiring loads of hard work.


However, here’s a secret to success: we all operate within the constraints of limited time and resources. It’s simply impossible to do it all. This is where the art of doing less, with a laser focus on specific areas, comes into play.


When we consciously choose to allocate our efforts to a handful of strategic priorities, we unleash the potential for lasting change. It’s about honing in on what truly matters, while staying true to our mission. It’s easy to get caught in the whirlwind of chasing dollars to meet various needs, all while neglecting the very people we’re dedicated to serving.


So, consider this: sometimes the most impactful move is to dial it back. Instead of planning five more fundraising events, perhaps it’s time to explore where you can cut costs and redirect those funds towards your most pressing objectives. In the world of fundraising, the magic often lies in doing less but doing it smartly.

thefundingcoach.ca

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Funding Lesson #3 – Have an Answer


In the world of non-profits, having a clear and compelling answer is your secret weapon for success.

Picture this: You’re passionately sharing your non-profit’s idea, vision, project, or a community event. The magic question pops up: “How can I help?” This question is a golden opportunity, often missed. But you, as a non-profit leader, can seize it and make a lasting impact.

The key to capitalizing on this moment lies in always being ready with an answer. A well-prepared leader has not just one, but several answers up their sleeve, tailored to the individual asking. It might be a resounding “Yes, we need volunteers for…” with the specifics filled in, or you could outline one to three concrete needs – one small, one medium, and one substantial.

Being prepared with these responses ensures you won’t miss the chance to harness the goodwill of those willing to lend a hand. It empowers you to engage with those who genuinely want to make a difference, and even those who have the means to offer substantial support.

So, remember, in the world of non-profits, having an answer is your greatest asset. It’s your ticket to unlocking the full potential of your mission and making a significant difference in the lives you aim to touch.

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Funding Lesson #2 – Know Your Purpose

A pivotal element in crafting a sustainable funding strategy is deeply comprehending the essence of your existence and your ability to articulate it.

Whether you’re a non-profit organization, a community group, a charitable entity, or a faith-based community, your journey began to address a specific need. Understanding this purpose is the first step in effectively communicating that need, setting clear objectives, and discovering how your organization can actively contribute to the solution.

So, before you proceed any further, take a moment to reflect. Why does your group exist?

This reflection is the key to unlocking the essential fundraising question: “Is this something that others would be eager to support with their contributions?”

thefundingcoach.ca

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Funding Lesson #1 – Believe in the Generosity of People!

At the core of every incredible cause lies the unwavering belief in the inherent generosity of humanity. The world is teeming with individuals who want to make a positive impact.

So, let’s ask ourselves: “How can we become the go-to destination for those looking to support a good cause?” Often, we rush to raise funds without pondering this crucial question, risking our mission’s success.

This is where a Funding Coach steps in! Let’s work together and discover the means to empower you, helping you leave a lasting mark and inspire others to channel their resources through your nonprofit.

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Why Do You Need the Funding Coach?

Several years ago, I had the privilege of joining a panel of esteemed nonprofit directors to address a group of students at one of our local colleges. This event provided a unique platform for students to engage with potential future employers within their local nonprofit landscape.

During my turn to shed light on what a career in the nonprofit sector entailed, I encouraged the students to take a moment to consider the accomplished individuals who had graced the stage before me. It was a reflection I had recently undergone myself, and it became apparent that the most successful long-term nonprofit leaders were some of the finest fundraisers I had ever encountered.

These individuals had honed the vital skills necessary to secure grants, collaborate with various government entities, garner community support, and effectively convey the vision and needs of their respective organizations.

The knowledge I imparted that day was a fundamental truth: if you choose to venture into this field, you must master the art of income generation, or you need to find someone who has.

Lack of funding stands as the paramount reason for nonprofit closures and the inability to fulfill their mission. The overarching mission of the Funding Coach is to guide you and your organization in acquiring the essential skills required to establish and sustain a viable funding strategy.

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Welcome

I am delighted to announce my involvement with a dynamic new venture known as ‘The Funding Coach.’ We are set to make our grand debut on November 1st with a noble mission at heart: to empower community groups, non-profits, and faith communities, enabling them to establish a strong financial footing.

The most common hurdle that non-profits face, often leading to their inability to fulfill their missions or even closure, is the lack of adequate funding. These organizations play a pivotal role in uniting communities to address critical social issues such as poverty, youth programs, support for families and seniors, as well as the provision of essential resources like food and meals.

The Funding Coach has been conceived with the sole purpose of providing assistance to these groups. Whether they are feeling overwhelmed, fatigued, or simply seeking strategies for sustainability and growth, we are here to lend a helping hand.

Stay tuned for more comprehensive information, and don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly if you have any inquiries or wish to learn more about our mission.