Understanding the Role of Donor-Advised Funds in Modern Fundraising
In recent years, donor-advised funds (DAFs) have become a powerful tool in the nonprofit sector, significantly increasing the amount of charitable donations. In 2023 alone, DAFs facilitated over $54 billion in grants to charitable …
In recent years, donor-advised funds (DAFs) have become a powerful tool in the nonprofit sector, significantly increasing the amount of charitable donations. In 2023 alone, DAFs facilitated over $54 billion in grants to charitable organizations, marking a second consecutive year of exceeding $50 billion in grants. However, despite their growing influence, DAFs have faced criticism for being primarily used for tax advantages. What often gets overlooked, though, is that the funds in DAFs can only be used for charitable purposes, making them a legitimate and powerful means of giving.
What Are Donor-Advised Funds?
At their core, DAFs are philanthropic accounts that allow individuals to make tax-deductible donations to a fund, from which they can then recommend grants to specific nonprofits. Whether through workplace giving or traditional DAFs, this giving model offers donors a straightforward way to contribute to causes they care about. This method of giving not only simplifies the donation process but also helps donors keep track of their charitable contributions over time.
Since DAFs are a relatively new concept (with 81% of them being established after 2010), they may seem intimidating or unfamiliar to some donors and fundraisers. However, the reality is that donors using DAFs are incredibly engaged and committed to supporting nonprofits over the long term, making them an important group to include in fundraising strategies.
Why Donors Choose DAFs
DAF donors are often more intentional and committed to supporting nonprofits for extended periods. Research shows that DAF donor retention is 15% higher than that of non-DAF donors, meaning DAF donors are more likely to contribute over the years. For many, DAFs represent an ongoing commitment to specific causes, unlike one-time donations made sporadically over their lifetime.
Donors who use workplace giving programs often contribute a portion of their paycheck to a DAF, making it a reliable way to fund charitable causes regularly. Even after leaving the workforce, many of these donors continue their giving through DAFs, ensuring that their support for nonprofits remains uninterrupted.
How DAFs Support Corporate Social Responsibility
Many companies now offer workplace giving programs that allow employees to contribute to DAFs, often matching donations to amplify the impact. These programs not only enhance employee engagement but also demonstrate the company’s commitment to making a positive difference in the community. In turn, employees feel more connected to their workplace’s mission and are more likely to continue supporting the nonprofits their company backs.
Corporate-sponsored volunteer events, paired with workplace giving, also help employees connect with nonprofits on a deeper level, which can lead to continued support even after they leave the company.
The Amplified Impact of DAFs
DAFs offer a unique advantage for donors who want their funds to grow before being disbursed. Contributions to a DAF are invested, which can increase the total amount available for charitable giving. This compounded growth allows nonprofits to receive larger donations over time, benefiting from a more consistent flow of funding.
Workplace DAFs are even more beneficial due to employer matching contributions. In some cases, a company’s match can double or triple the impact of an employee’s donation, which increases the value of each charitable contribution.
Overall, DAF donors tend to give significantly more compared to non-DAF donors, with some reports showing that DAF donors give nearly 96% more annually than they did before using the fund. This generosity shows how committed these donors are to causes they care about.
DAFs Are Reshaping Philanthropy
Although DAFs are still a relatively new concept in the world of charitable giving, they are growing rapidly. Between 2019 and 2023, grants from DAFs grew 214 times faster than those from non-DAF sources, which illustrates the increasing role they play in modern fundraising. As DAFs continue to gain traction, nonprofits should actively encourage contributions through these funds and incorporate them into their fundraising strategies.
In conclusion, DAFs offer a tremendous opportunity for nonprofits to tap into a growing and committed donor base. By understanding how DAFs work and integrating them into long-term fundraising plans, nonprofits can maximize their impact and create lasting relationships with their donors.
To read the full article by Matt Nash, please visit Modern Fundraising And The Impact Of Donor-Advised Funds.
Building Capacity Without Breaking the Budget: Smart Strategies for Nonprofits
Nonprofit organizations often face the challenge of doing more with less, especially in an economic climate where budgets are tight and inflationary pressures continue to impact costs. Whether it’s managing a nonprofit or any …
Nonprofit organizations often face the challenge of doing more with less, especially in an economic climate where budgets are tight and inflationary pressures continue to impact costs. Whether it’s managing a nonprofit or any other type of organization, the need to stretch limited resources is constant. However, there are proven strategies that can help nonprofits increase their capacity while keeping expenses in check.
1. Regularly Review Your Budget
Budgeting shouldn’t be a once-a-year task. To keep up with economic changes, it’s essential to review your budget on a quarterly basis. Take a close look at every line item—not just the major expenses like salaries and rent. Small costs, such as office supplies, subscriptions, and equipment, can add up quickly over time. A regular budget review can help identify areas where you might still be paying for unused services or unnecessary expenses.
2. Invest in Revenue-Generating Activities
While reducing costs is important, nonprofits must also focus on generating income to balance their budgets. Revenue-generating activities, such as donor appeals, grant writing, and major donor cultivation, should be central to your strategy. By strategically investing in activities that increase revenue, you can address financial shortfalls and sustain your operations effectively.
3. Focus on Donor Retention
Donor retention is a far more cost-effective strategy than acquiring new donors. Research indicates that retaining a donor costs approximately 10 times less than finding a new one. To build long-term success, it’s critical to maintain strong relationships with existing donors. Regularly evaluate your donor engagement practices to ensure you’re connecting effectively with supporters and encouraging repeat donations.
4. Communicate Transparently
Transparency is key in building trust with your donors and stakeholders. By sharing both your successes and challenges, you demonstrate resilience and the ability to navigate difficult situations. Open communication helps strengthen relationships, making it easier to maintain support without incurring additional costs. Transparency should be a cornerstone of your communication strategy to foster deeper connections with your community.
5. Expand Capacity Creatively
When your organization faces capacity gaps, think creatively about how to fill them. Solutions like staff swaps or hiring fractional professionals—such as part-time CFOs, HR specialists, or grant writers—can provide the expertise you need without the expense of hiring full-time employees. These flexible, cost-effective options allow you to expand your organization’s capacity while keeping expenses low.
These strategies can help your nonprofit build capacity without inflating costs. By regularly reviewing your budget, focusing on revenue generation, retaining donors, communicating transparently, and thinking creatively about expanding capacity, you can position your organization for long-term success even during challenging economic times.
To read the full article by Staci Gilpin, Ph.D. and Charity Anderson, Ph.D., please visit https://thenonprofittimes.com/npt_articles/building-capacity-without-breaking-the-budget/.
Strengthening Partnerships with the Board: Three Critical Areas for Nonprofit Leaders
Nonprofit leaders are passionate about their mission to create meaningful change, but despite their dedication and hard work, many find themselves struggling to achieve the desired results. To overcome these challenges and lead their …
Nonprofit leaders are passionate about their mission to create meaningful change, but despite their dedication and hard work, many find themselves struggling to achieve the desired results. To overcome these challenges and lead their organizations toward greater success, nonprofit leaders must focus on three key areas: building strong relationships with staff, fostering active partnerships with board members, and effectively communicating the organization’s impact. By honing these aspects, nonprofit leaders can drive real, lasting change in their communities.
1. Building Strong Internal Relationships
One of the most important aspects of leadership is creating positive, supportive relationships within your team. Successful nonprofit leaders strive to make their employees feel valued and heard. Leaders who excel in this area can inspire their team to perform at their best by acknowledging their contributions and fostering an environment where all voices are respected.
As Maya Angelou famously said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Listening to your employees and demonstrating that you care about their concerns and contributions can significantly boost morale and create a cohesive team. Leadership isn’t about formal authority; it’s about building trust through genuine care and support.
2. Creating Strong Partnerships with the Board
A successful nonprofit leader also knows how to work closely with their board. While it’s essential to understand the board’s fiduciary responsibilities, the most effective leaders know how to create a strong, collaborative relationship with board members. Engaging your board as true partners in achieving strategic goals is key to organizational success.
Leaders can foster this partnership by encouraging open dialogue about the challenges and opportunities the organization faces. Board members should feel empowered to contribute their unique knowledge and skills. One useful approach is to ensure that at least half of your board meetings focus on open discussions about strategic issues. For instance, after committee updates, the board chair could ask engaging questions such as, “What impact are we making on the people we serve?” or “How can we differentiate ourselves from other organizations?”
3. Measuring and Communicating Organizational Impact
Nonprofit leaders must continuously measure their success and communicate the impact of their work. Many leaders fall into the trap of thinking their organization’s work is well-known when, in fact, they may be the “best-kept secret” in town. To build a successful nonprofit, you must consistently highlight the positive outcomes your organization is creating for its beneficiaries.
Ask yourself: If your nonprofit had a “stock price,” what would it be selling for today? This metaphor emphasizes the importance of understanding and communicating the tangible value your organization provides. Constantly assess and measure the impact you’re making, and ensure that you share those results with your community and stakeholders.
Being transparent about your organization’s impact can help attract more support and involvement. Remember, “donors give to success, not distress.” When you communicate the positive influence your nonprofit is having, you demonstrate your organization’s strength and attract the resources needed to continue making a difference.
Key Takeaways for Nonprofit Leaders: Strengthening Internal Relationships and Board Engagement
To lead a nonprofit to greater success, it is essential to cultivate strong relationships within your organization, engage your board in meaningful ways, and consistently communicate your impact. By doing so, you’ll foster a culture of success and growth that will propel your organization forward. Don’t let your nonprofit remain a secret—share your achievements, measure your impact, and keep your mission at the forefront of all you do.
To read the full article by Dennis C. Miller, please visit https://thenonprofittimes.com/npt_articles/partnering-with-the-board-3-key-areas-to-develop/.
Agricultural Climate Resiliency Program Funds Four New Projects
The Agricultural Climate Resiliency Program is expanding its impact with an additional $5.1 million in funding for four new research and outreach projects. This initiative, a collaboration between Michigan State University (MSU), the Michigan …
The Agricultural Climate Resiliency Program is expanding its impact with an additional $5.1 million in funding for four new research and outreach projects. This initiative, a collaboration between Michigan State University (MSU), the Michigan Plant Coalition, and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), aims to address long-term climate and water challenges in Michigan’s plant agriculture sector.
Established in 2024, the program is administered by MSU AgBioResearch and MSU Extension, supporting research efforts focused on water efficiency, soil health, carbon sequestration, and environmental conservation. Each of the four selected projects will receive $1.275 million over three years to develop innovative, science-based solutions for Michigan farmers.
Advancing Agricultural Resilience
MDARD Director Tim Boring emphasized the importance of these investments, stating, “Supporting Michigan’s agricultural resilience is a top priority. Thanks to Gov. Whitmer’s bipartisan budget, we are funding cutting-edge projects that provide practical solutions for farmers. These initiatives will help the agricultural industry adapt to challenges today and build a sustainable future for generations to come.”
A panel of experts from MSU, the Michigan Plant Coalition, and MDARD evaluated 18 proposals before selecting the four funded projects for 2025. George Smith, director of MSU AgBioResearch, highlighted the significance of these efforts, saying, “The first two years of proposals have been extremely impressive. The selected projects will lay the groundwork for long-term, practical solutions that benefit Michigan’s growers.”
2025 Funded Projects
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Climate-Resilient Cropping Systems
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Researchers are developing a modeling platform to help farmers, food producers, and government agencies make data-driven management decisions. The goal is to optimize inputs and enhance economic, environmental, and social outcomes in agriculture.
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Lead Researcher: Bruno Basso, John A. Hannah Distinguished Professor, MSU Departments of Earth and Environmental Sciences and Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences.
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AI-Powered Agricultural Forecasting
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This project leverages artificial intelligence to create a forecasting tool for four key crops in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula: corn, potatoes, soybeans, and wheat. By analyzing climate trends, the platform will assist farmers in developing adaptive strategies to enhance resilience.
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Lead Researcher: Jiquan Chen, Professor, MSU Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences.
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Mitigating Nutrient Runoff
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Addressing one of the leading causes of harmful algal blooms in Michigan’s waterbodies, this initiative focuses on developing advanced tools for nutrient management in corn and soybean farming. Research will include water quality monitoring, conservation practices, and farmer decision-support tools.
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Lead Researcher: Subhasis Giri, Assistant Professor, MSU Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering.
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Enhancing Soil and Water Conservation Through Regenerative Agriculture
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With Michigan farmers facing increasing uncertainty due to extreme weather, this study will model how regenerative practices can improve soil health, enhance water retention, and reduce runoff. Researchers aim to quantify the benefits of soil water-holding capacity, aquifer recharge, and nutrient retention.
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Lead Researcher: Jeremiah Asher, Assistant Director, MSU Institute of Water Research.
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Research Meets Real-World Application
A critical component of these projects is ensuring that research findings are directly applied to Michigan’s farming communities. MSU Extension Director Quentin Tyler highlighted the program’s commitment to practical implementation: “Strong partnerships with agricultural industries and growers are the backbone of our work. The outreach component of this program ensures research-based recommendations are accessible and actionable.”
For more information about the Agricultural Climate Resiliency Program and ongoing research efforts, visit canr.msu.edu/climate-resiliency.
To read the full article by Cameron Rudolph, please visit Agricultural Climate Resiliency Program funds 4 new projects – Michigan Farm News.
How To Maximize Benefits of Spring Burndown Applications
As temperatures rise and fields begin to thaw, preparing for the upcoming growing season is top of mind for many farmers. Among the most critical early-season tasks is effective weed control. Neglecting winter annuals …
As temperatures rise and fields begin to thaw, preparing for the upcoming growing season is top of mind for many farmers. Among the most critical early-season tasks is effective weed control. Neglecting winter annuals can lead to significant yield loss—sometimes as much as 50%. Implementing a strong burndown strategy can set the stage for a successful season.
Preparing Equipment for Optimal Application
Spring weather conditions can be unpredictable, making it essential to have sprayers ready to go at a moment’s notice. Proper sprayer maintenance ensures effective herbicide application and minimizes downtime.
Key maintenance steps include flushing antifreeze products from the system, checking for leaks, and ensuring no residue buildup in the boom end caps. Wesley Everman, an Iowa State University Extension weed specialist, stresses the importance of this step:
“Some products can have a clay base that leaves a residue that accumulates at the end of the booms. As we get into the new season, we don’t want [old chemicals to contaminate] anything we’re spraying.”
Additionally, calibrating the sprayer for the correct gallons-per-acre setting is essential. While it may be tempting to conserve water, ensuring adequate spray coverage improves weed control effectiveness.
Strategic Planning for Effective Weed Control
A well-thought-out plan is crucial for maximizing burndown applications. Fields intended for early planting should be prioritized, as these areas need to be cleared of winter annuals before crops go in. Problem fields—such as those prone to excessive moisture—should also be addressed early to prevent weed overgrowth before spring rains arrive.
Drake Copeland, a technical service manager for FMC, advises keeping the approach straightforward:
“Keep it simple. There’s a lot of options out there, but go with what you know works and select the appropriate adjuvant.”
Farmers should also consider crop rotation and plant-back intervals when selecting herbicides to ensure they align with their overall planting strategy.
Choosing the Right Time to Spray
Timing is everything when it comes to spring burndown. Weeds need to be actively growing for herbicides to work effectively. Temperature plays a key role in this process, with optimal conditions requiring daytime temperatures around 50°F for several consecutive days.
Monty Parish, a Kentucky farmer, shares his approach:
“I want my air temperature to be a bare minimum of 40°F, and it’s helpful if the sun is shining.”
By monitoring the weather forecast and choosing the right window for application, farmers can maximize herbicide efficacy and reduce the need for additional treatments later in the season.
Evaluating Burndown Success
Unlike other aspects of crop management, burndown application success is often immediately visible.
“It’s an almost instant gratification. Within a few days, you know if the program has worked, because the weeds are either dead, or they aren’t,” says Parish.
Though spring burndown results may take slightly longer than summer applications, most farmers can expect to see effects within 10 days. Clean fields also offer additional benefits, such as improved soil conditions for planting and a reduced risk of insect and nematode infestations.
The Cost of Skipping Burndown
While early-season weed control requires time and resources, skipping this step can lead to bigger problems later in the season. Herbicide-resistant weeds like marestail can quickly become unmanageable, resulting in more costly interventions down the line.
Alternative suppression methods such as tillage or cover crops may be viable in some fields, but for many farmers, a well-executed burndown program is the best investment for long-term weed management.
Copeland emphasizes the importance of starting the season with a clean field:
“It’s a message we’ve heard for years, but starting clean and staying clean is more critical than ever. If there’s money to be spent on herbicides, the way you start the year is where you’ll see the best return on investment.”
By prioritizing effective weed control through a well-planned burndown strategy, farmers can set themselves up for a productive and profitable growing season.
To read the full article by Chelsea Dinterman, please visit How to Maximize Benefits of Spring Burndown Applications.
How to Be Proactive with a Succession Plan
Benjamin Franklin once said, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” This wisdom holds especially true for farmers, whose livelihoods and family legacies depend on careful planning. The story of the Peterson …
Benjamin Franklin once said, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” This wisdom holds especially true for farmers, whose livelihoods and family legacies depend on careful planning. The story of the Peterson family in Gilbert, Iowa, serves as a powerful example of how proactive succession planning can ensure the continuation of a farm for generations to come.
Laying the Groundwork: Starting the Conversation
In 2014, Kevin Peterson and his son, Erik, attended a farm continuation workshop led by Mark McLaughlin, an expert in estate planning and farm succession. Kevin, a farmer and firefighter, knew that securing the future of his family’s 300-acre farm required meticulous planning. He sought guidance from professionals, including McLaughlin, to craft a comprehensive strategy.
The First Steps: Protecting the Land
The initial focus of the plan was on Kevin’s mother, the landowner, who wanted to keep the farm intact for future generations. The family structured a contract sale that allowed Kevin to purchase the land from his mother over a 20-year period. To ease the financial burden, part of Kevin’s inheritance was used to lower the purchase price. Despite some initial resistance from Kevin’s siblings, his mother stood firm in her decision to maintain the land as one unit.
Ensuring Stability: Estate Planning and Contingency Measures
Kevin and his wife, Lynn, took additional steps to safeguard the farm’s future. They set up rental and purchase agreements between Erik and his sister, Lindsay, ensuring a fair but practical distribution of assets. Life insurance policies provided financial security, allowing the farm to continue operating without disruption in the event of Kevin’s passing.
A Sudden Loss: Putting the Plan to the Test
Tragically, within a few years of finalizing the estate plan, Kevin passed away in a motorcycle accident. However, because of the careful planning, his family was able to move forward without financial turmoil. Lynn redirected the $1 million life insurance benefit to Erik, enabling him to purchase his father’s machinery. The tax-free nature of the insurance proceeds, combined with smart financial planning, allowed Erik to reinvest in the farm while simplifying Lynn’s financial responsibilities.
Moving Forward: A Lasting Legacy
Today, Lynn continues to pay off the farmland, ensuring it remains within the family. Erik is set to fully own the Peterson farm one day, with Lindsay receiving a fair inheritance in nonfarm assets. The family’s story underscores an essential truth: fair is not always equal, and strategic planning is key to preserving a farm’s legacy.
Final Thoughts: Why Every Farm Needs a Succession Plan
The Petersons’ experience highlights the importance of early and proactive estate planning. Without it, the sudden loss of a key family member can lead to financial instability, legal battles, and even the loss of farmland. As Erik advises other farm families, “Make time and put it in your calendar. Make sure you just get it squared away.”
By taking the necessary steps today, farmers can secure their family’s future and ensure that their hard work and legacy live on for generations to come.
To read the full article by Lisa Foust Prater, please visit How to Be Proactive With a Succession Plan.
What Employers Need to Know: The Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) Takes Effect February 21, 2025
On February 21, 2025, Michigan’s Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) will go into effect, bringing significant changes to the way businesses handle sick time for their employees. This law applies to all employers with …
On February 21, 2025, Michigan’s Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) will go into effect, bringing significant changes to the way businesses handle sick time for their employees. This law applies to all employers with one or more employees, excluding the U.S. Government, and it mandates that employees begin accruing earned sick time. Let’s take a closer look at what employers need to know to prepare.
Accrual and Limits
- Accrual Rate: Employees will accrue 1 hour of sick time for every 30 hours worked, which breaks down to roughly 0.0334 hours per 1 hour worked.
- Caps: Employers can choose to cap accrual at 72 hours of sick time per year. However, any unused time must roll over year to year, with no cap on the amount that can accumulate. Keep in mind that while rollover is unlimited, employees can be restricted to 72 hours per year unless the employer opts for a higher limit.
Tracking and Usage
- Smallest Increments: Employers must allow employees to use sick time in the smallest increment used by the payroll system. For example, if employees are paid per minute, sick time can be taken minute-by-minute.
- Non-Disciplinary Absences: ESTA time is exempt from disciplinary policies. Absences taken under this leave cannot be counted against an employee in terms of any absence policy.
Documentation and Restrictions
- Reasonable Documentation: After three consecutive days of leave, employers can request reasonable documentation for sick time. However, employers cannot require employees to search for a replacement worker.
- No Payout at Termination: Employers are not required to pay out unused sick time upon termination. However, if an employee is rehired within 6 months, they are entitled to keep their accrued sick time.
Family Members
- Who’s Covered? ESTA defines family members broadly, including children, parents, grandparents, and even siblings, as well as individuals with whom the employee shares a close relationship. Employees can use sick time for their own or a family member’s illness, medical appointments, or issues related to domestic violence and sexual assault.
Key Considerations for Employers
- Tracking Records: Employers must maintain records of earned sick time for at least one year. However, most recommend keeping these records for seven years by integrating them into payroll systems.
- Discipline Policies: Be mindful of your discipline policies, especially if you plan to avoid tracking reasons for ESTA absences. This could complicate any progressive discipline process related to attendance.
Does ESTA Affect Collective Bargaining Agreements?
Yes, if employees are part of a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the terms of the CBA may affect how ESTA applies. The law does not override sick leave benefits negotiated in an existing CBA unless that agreement is silent on the issue.
Action Items for Employers:
- Review and Adjust Policies: Ensure that your sick leave policies comply with ESTA, including accrual rates, limits, and rollover rules.
- Update Payroll Systems: Verify that your payroll system can track sick leave accruals accurately and in the smallest increments.
- Plan for Documentation: Review your documentation process for sick time, especially regarding medical leave requests after three consecutive days.
- Prepare for Compliance: Since ESTA applies to all employees, regardless of work location (as long as they are in Michigan), ensure that your records reflect the correct status for any employees working out-of-state.
With ESTA taking effect in just over a month, it’s crucial to start preparing now. Employers who don’t comply with the new law could face penalties. If you need assistance in adjusting your policies or ensuring compliance, we’re here to help.
Stay informed, and make sure your business is ready for the upcoming changes.
Grants: Positioning Your Organization For 2025
1. Reassess Your GoalsBefore diving into grant applications, revisit your nonprofit’s goals for 2025. Identify the programs or projects you want to fund and ensure they align with your mission. A clear vision will …
1. Reassess Your Goals
Before diving into grant applications, revisit your nonprofit’s goals for 2025. Identify the programs or projects you want to fund and ensure they align with your mission. A clear vision will guide your search and strengthen your grant applications.
2. Research Funding Opportunities
Start researching potential funders now. Explore both familiar sources and new opportunities, such as foundations or government agencies that align with your mission. Create a calendar of grant deadlines to stay organized and ahead of schedule.
3. Build Relationships with Funders
Grant success goes beyond applications—it’s about relationships. Reach out to funders early to introduce your nonprofit, share your goals, and learn about their priorities. A proactive approach can offer valuable insights and help establish connections.
4. Strengthen Your Organizational Profile
Update your website, refine your mission statement, and gather data and impact stories. A polished and compelling organizational profile makes your grant applications more competitive and appealing to funders.
5. Diversify Your Funding Sources
While grants are important, don’t rely on them exclusively. Develop a diverse funding strategy that includes individual donations, corporate partnerships, and earned income. This approach ensures stability and increases your appeal to funders.
6. Invest in Grant-Writing Capacity
Strong grant writing can significantly improve your success rate. Consider training current staff or hiring a professional grant writer to enhance your applications and streamline the process.
7. Plan for Sustainability
Funders want to know their investment will have a lasting impact. Develop a plan to sustain funded projects beyond the grant period to improve your chances of securing multi-year funding.
8. Stay Updated on Funding Trends
Keep an eye on emerging trends in your sector. Understanding funder priorities and shifts in grant-making practices can help you refine your approach and remain competitive.
9. Prepare Your Team
Grant-seeking is a team effort. Ensure your staff, board, and volunteers understand your funding priorities and can clearly articulate your nonprofit’s impact.
10. Reflect on Past Efforts
Review your 2024 grant efforts. Identify what worked well and what can be improved, then apply these insights to refine your strategy for 2025.
By starting early and focusing on clear goals, strong relationships, and organizational readiness, your nonprofit will be better positioned to secure the funding it needs to succeed in 2025. For more assistance in developing your grant strategy, contact De Boer, Baumann & Company today.