SMART goals make for better, more realistic fundraising.
SMART goals make for better, more realistic fundraising.
Get smarter by setting SMART goals

Blockbuster goals might (theoretically) bust fundraising blocks, but SMART goals are (actually) far more effective.

Nonprofit staff aligning their messaging and mission statement to ensure consistency and hitting fundraising target.
On message, on mission

If your nonprofit is going to fulfill its purpose, your staff need to think and speak clearly and consistently about its mission.

Group of people representing advisory council that engages retirees and gen zers, identifies future board of directors members, and rewards promising nonprofit staff members.
Your nonprofit probably needs an advisory council

As the number of charitably inclined Gen Zers and philanthropically involved retirees skyrockets, it’s worth considering the benefits an advisory council could bring to your organization.

Brick wall indicating getting a no from prospective donor, but push through that disappointment to get to a donor yes and fundraising gift
Dealing with disappointment

For every fundraising professional, failure is inevitable—and surmountable, and even beneficial. To mature as a fundraiser, you should see disappointment as an opportunity to grow.

Spotlight

Banks have no business advising individual philanthropy

Big banks know no more about philanthropy than they do about making toast. They shouldn’t be advising customers on either.

Death of a snow day

Snow days may be a thing of the past as “work from home” and “virtual learning” become more common across the country.

Latest Articles

Motivation is worthless

Passion is all well and good, but when it comes to fulfilling your mission, professional discipline is key.

Slow Productivity in action

In his new book, Cal Newport emphasizes the importance and impact of slowing down at work.

“None to Make Him Afraid”: America’s Central Promise Broken by Antisemitism Run Amok

Why is it that so much of the deep-seated disdain for Jews, masquerading as hatred for Israel, is nurtured in the labs of nonprofit institutions?

You have one shot to unlock funding

Making the most of the chance to secure funding for your cause, with inspiration from Eminem.

What of the $17 Billion Racial Reckoning in Philanthropy?

Since 2020, foundations have poured nearly $17 billion into grants earmarked for racial equity. But have those dollars achieved the intended outcomes?

Do you want your donors' information in a public database?

The IRS is careless with donors’ data, but philanthropists are working to spur legal decisions and legislation that force the agency to get serious about taxpayer privacy.