Category: 7-figurefundraisingexpert

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The Unseen Influence of Nonprofit Events: Beyond Fundraising Galas

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Over three decades in the nonprofit realm, I’ve seen firsthand that events are not just gatherings but potent catalysts for change and touchpoints for community building. Yet, opinions vary widely among nonprofit leaders, board members, volunteers, and community stakeholders.

For larger, financially solid nonprofit organizations with a robust major donor pipeline, events are often viewed as resource-intensive without an immediate ROI. Conversely, events are pivotal for emerging community-based nonprofits looking to raise their visibility and strengthen their major donor pipeline. They capture attention and funds otherwise inaccessible, becoming a focal point for an integrated fundraising strategy.

Having supported the fundraising agendas of established and emerging nonprofits, I appreciate the challenges smaller organizations face, particularly in capturing the attention of funders in the philanthropic marketplace.

Emerging community-based nonprofits often need help fitting within the rigid overhead funding models, leading them to innovative fundraising strategies like special events. Eager to grow their standing in the philanthropic world, these organizations often find special events the most effective option for maximizing their resources.

Remember, not every event is a gala! Several ticketed events occupy this space and are great investments for the host organization. From intimate donor dinners to community-wide festivals, the spectrum of events is as diverse as the causes they support. I will delve deeper into specific types of events in future posts.

Today, I want to share why many of the nonprofit leaders I support decide to host events:

  • Diversification of Revenue: Special events provide an additional income stream, complementing other fundraising efforts like grants, donations, and memberships. This diversification helps organizations maintain financial stability and reduce dependence on a single funding source.
  • Community Engagement: Special events serve as platforms for engaging the community and building stronger relationships with supporters. They unite donors, volunteers, and beneficiaries, creating a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
  • Increased Visibility: Special events can generate media coverage and social media buzz, increasing the organization’s visibility and engaging new donors, volunteers, and supporters who may become more involved with your organization.
  • Donor Cultivation: Special events allow nonprofits to interact with donors and prospects personally. They provide opportunities to cultivate relationships, express gratitude, and update on the organization’s accomplishments, potentially leading to increased future giving.
  • Funding Specific Projects: Nonprofits often use proceeds from special events to fund specific projects or initiatives not covered by earmarked funds. Attending donors learn about critical yet unfunded projects and initiatives that resonate with their values, potentially motivating them to increase their support.

Parting Thoughts

If you are leaning towards hosting events, remember the unique opportunity to showcase your organization before a group of prospects and donors who have enthusiastically accepted (and paid for) your invitation to learn more about your mission and programs.

The list I’ve mentioned needs to be completed, but it’s a good start to inform your present (or future) discussions. As you contemplate hosting your first or next event, consider these tangible benefits beyond fundraising.

Fondly,

Monique

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Women Whose Voices Amplify Philanthropy

Dear Friends,

With all that is going on in our world, I wanted to share this post about women, who I have followed for some time, are using their voices to amplify their views on philanthropy.

This list is not finite for there are so many more stories I plan to share with you. As we continue to navigate the harrowing impact of Covid-19, these acts of generosity remind me how important it is to reach back and support the most vulnerable in our society.

Most important of all, thank you for all that you do to help others. Please stay encouraged!

Sincerely,

Monique

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Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events || Envisioning Your Gala

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Welcome to the Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events™ series created to serve as a resource for non-profit leaders looking to host their first special event fundraiser, or reinvigorate a dormant event, but are overwhelmed by the steps involved.  In my previous article I provided insights to consider when Collaborating with Honorees on your signature fundraising event, which can be accessed by following this link.

Today I am pleased to share tips to keep in mind when planning your organization’s first (or reinvigorated) Grand Affair With Lasting Appeal (GALA). Unlike any other event you will host or imagine a GALA conveys a grand vision that has come to life; uniquely designed to create a memorable experience for prospects, donors and stakeholders.

For many attendees your event will be their first introduction to your organization; therefore you are charged with providing an experience that is exciting and informative, elegant and engaging. Whether the dress code is festive wear or business attire, black tie or white tie, your objective is to create an environment that will impress donors enough to convert them from passive observers into active participants.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when planning for your (GALA):

  1. Your GALA’s objectives should be well-defined and have measurable outcomes.  Most important of all, please take the time to gain clarity around why you have asked guests to gather and the message you want to convey.  This is also an opportunity to allow donors and stakeholders to interact with your program’s beneficiaries and see their philanthropy at work.
  2. Your GALA must have the appropriate team to achieve success. Every participant – honorees, gala committee members, emcees, entertainers, designers, staff and volunteers – must be committed to the vision or it simply will not work.
  3. Your GALA’s ticket and table prices must be structured to create a successful outcome. Funds raised will help strengthen working capital and create a new portal of donors who share your organization’s values. Your GALA will help set the stage for future events and your objective is to leave donors clamoring for ways to be involved.
  4. Your GALA’s look and feel should give the impression something special is going to take place.  The venue you choose is critical to achieving this objective.  While your event must feel special and worthy of your guests’ investment; please be mindful as you to not want to produce an event that will come across as wasteful to your target audience.  

High-level events are a great way to raise funds and build relationships but there are many steps involved.  However, with the right strategies you will be able to plan with precision and execute with excellence.

If I can support your efforts, please contact me at Monique@Eventstrategies4success.com.

Here’s to your success!

Monique

#philanthropy #nonprofitleaders #specialevents #specialeventfundraiser #nonprofitevents #galas #fundraisers

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Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events || Collaborating with Corporate Honorees

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Welcome to the Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events™. I created this series to serve as a resource for non-profit leaders looking to host their first special event fundraiser, or reinvigorate a dormant event, but are overwhelmed by the steps involved. 

In my earlier article, I discussed Ways to Involve Donors When Making the Case For Support, which can be accessed via this link.  As you and your team work to implement sustainable fundraising strategies, one of the most rewarding moments is when a corporate chairman or CEO agrees to be honored.

Collaborating with an industry leader who recognizes the importance of strategically positioning your organization in the philanthropic marketplace can greatly impact your fundraising success. As your team prepares to take action, remember that corporate honorees must carefully align your organization’s needs with their broader social responsibility objectives.

Today, I am pleased to share some insights to consider when Collaborating with Honorees on your signature fundraising event. 

1. Corporate honorees have influence but do not have an open checkbook.  The good news is you are working with proven leaders.  Once they have a clear understanding of your needs and commit to the fundraising campaign, you will receive great support.

2. Corporate support may take many forms.  “Do you make it easy for others to support your work? When seeking corporate support, consider offering options like a one-time lead gift to fund a specific program area, a multi-year commitment to launch a new initiative, or a one-time lead gift to support your event paired with a pledge to secure extra funding through their network. Presenting clear and flexible opportunities can help potential corporate partners align their contributions with your organization’s goals.

3. Corporate honorees are careful with their investments.  CEOs take pride in knowing their resources (time, money, key personnel) add value to your organization’s bottom line.  At the same time, they take comfort in knowing your team will take an active role in fundraising efforts. 

4. Corporate communication generally takes place via a member of their executive team. Traditionally, this person will be a senior-level manager designated to help you and update the honoree.  Please honor and work within this structure.

5. Business etiquette goes a long way.  Your organization contact should have great interpersonal skills and be capable of communicate with business leaders with professionalism and tact.  This will help build a lasting relationship long after the event is over.

Additionally to generating essential funds for your organization, high-level events offer an excellent opportunity to strengthen relationships for future collaboration. While the process involves many steps, implementing the right strategies will allow you to plan with precision and execute with excellence.

If I can support your efforts please contact me at Monique@Eventstrategies4success.com.

Here’s to your success!

Fondly,

Monique

#philanthropy #nonprofitleaders #specialevents #specialeventfundraiser #nonprofitevents #galas #fundraisers

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Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events || Ways to Involve Donors When Making the Case for Support

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Welcome to the Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events™ series created to serve as a resource for non-profit leaders looking to host their first special event fundraiser, or reinvigorate a dormant event, but are overwhelmed by the steps involved.  In my previous article, I shared strategies you can use to Create Momentum for Your Event, which can be accessed by following this link.

If you have been looking for unique opportunities to involve your most generous supporters, why not start with your event? Today I will share ways you can Ways to Involve Donors When Making the Case for Support.

1. Ask donors to collaborate. 

For donors with C-suite connections, invite them to help create strategies for soliciting contributions from others within this circle. Their insight can ensure your appeal is best positioned for a positive outcome.

2. Ask donors to lead.

For donors who enjoy the allure of events, and have the time and resources to ensure successful outcomes, invite them to take a leadership role on the fundraising committee. Excited and engaged donors are vital to your success.

3. Ask donors to host.

For donors who have access to networks critical to your organization’s long-term success, but cannot commit to a lengthy fundraising campaign, invite them to sponsor a pre-event activity or host private a reception to provide honorees with a more personal look at your organization.

4. Ask donors to mentor.

For donors who have served as ambassadors, but shy away from formal committees, invite them to mentor key team members and accompany them on in-person visits with prospects and community stakeholders.

When making the case for support, involving donors is key. With proper planning and patience, well-planned events can set the tone for six-or-seven-figure fundraising success.

If I can support your efforts, please contact me at Monique@Eventstrategies4success.com.

Here’s to your success!

Fondly,

Monique

#philanthropy #nonprofitleaders #specialevents #specialeventfundraiser #nonprofitevents #galas #fundraisers

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