Episodi
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In this shorter, experimental format episode of Grant Writing Simplified, Teresa shares insights on the importance of asking different questions to navigate challenges in the nonprofit sector. Drawing from her experiences leading workshops and serving as a sounding board for nonprofit leaders, Teresa encourages listeners to step back from their frustrations and conventional problem-solving approaches. She emphasizes the value of exploring problems more deeply and considering alternatives to the status quo, without necessarily seeking immediate solutions. Teresa challenges you to apply this approach in your team discussions and collaborative efforts, suggesting that asking the right questions can unlock new paths forward. She also references her TEDx talk for further exploration of this topic and teases future interviews and resources aimed at aiding nonprofit strategies and grant writing careers. 00:00 What do you think of this format? 00:21 Preparing for a Nonprofit Workshop: Insights and Challenges 01:01 The Power of Asking Different Questions 02:11 A Challenge to Think Differently 02:40 TEDx Talk and Upcoming Resources 03:17 Encouragement and Closing Thoughts
Connect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: https://teresahuff.com/share-quiz/
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In this episode, I'm doing something a little different. I was recently invited to be a podcast guest on the Marketer of the Day podcast by Robert Plank and I was happy to do that. It was such a fun conversation. He asked such really good questions that I thought, why not share it here with you as well! We talk about grant writing, nonprofit strategies, and making a lasting impact in communities through grant opportunities. We also address how important it is to build solid relationships with grantmakers to achieve success. I think you're going to love this episode!
On this episode:
Introduction Flipping the Script Diving Deep into Grant Writing The Art of Grant Writing: Making an Impact Success Stories and Strategies in Nonprofit Funding The Process and Strategy Behind Effective Grant Writing Expanding Your Grant Writing Skills and Network Final Thoughts and How to ConnectConnect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: https://teresahuff.com/share-quiz/
Social:
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12544635/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/huffteresa/
https://www.instagram.com/grantwritingsimplified/
https://www.pinterest.com/grantwritingsimplified/
https://youtube.com/@grantwritingsimplified
Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:
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Episodi mancanti?
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Book a 1:1 strategy call with Teresa Huff: www.teresahuff.com/mentor In this episode of the Grant Writing Simplified Podcast, I have a fascinating conversation with Chris Ekimoff, a forensic accountant specializing in litigation consulting and forensic accounting services. Chris discusses the importance of financial vigilance and proactiveness in nonprofits to prevent fraud and financial mismanagement. He emphasizes that it's not about fostering suspicion but about creating awareness and setting up good systems, checks, and balances. We touch upon various topics, including the value of having financial or legal professionals on nonprofit boards, the necessity of self-awareness and admitting organizational weaknesses, and the idea of 'trust but verify' to maintain a healthy and transparent nonprofit culture. We advocate for collaboration among nonprofits to learn and grow together, emphasizing that it's not a competitive but a collective mission to serve communities better. This conversation is aimed at helping nonprofits understand the significance of good financial practices and how to implement them to ensure their organization's and mission's sustainability. 00:00 Welcome and Workshop Announcement 00:47 Introducing Forensic Accounting with Chris Ekimoff 03:36 Chris Ekimoff's Unique Background and Forensic Accounting Explained 05:01 The Importance of Forensic Accounting in Nonprofits 13:32 Practical Steps for Nonprofits to Prevent Fraud 19:58 The Balance of Trust and Compliance in Nonprofit Culture 27:25 Navigating Your Career with Skiing Wisdom 28:18 Strategic Planning for Nonprofits 31:23 The Power of Collaboration in the Nonprofit Sector 33:57 Elevating Nonprofit Impact: Moving Upstream 37:31 Cultivating a Culture of Openness and Improvement 45:56 Leveraging Professional and Personal Resources 48:20 Connecting and Sharing Resources for Nonprofit Success
Connect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: https://teresahuff.com/share-quiz/
Social:
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12544635/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/huffteresa/
https://www.instagram.com/grantwritingsimplified/
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https://youtube.com/@grantwritingsimplified
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Book a 1:1 strategy call with Teresa Huff: www.teresahuff.com/mentor
The Crucial Role of Data in Non-profit Grant Funding
In this episode, I'm diving deep into why data collection and tracking are absolute game-changers for non-profit organizations, especially when it comes to snagging those crucial grant funds. I'm all about getting the full picture, which means not just crunching numbers but also capturing those heartwarming stories that truly showcase our impact.
I'll walk you through a handy five-question guide to evaluate your current data practices, because let's face it, we can always level up.
From day one, I'm all about data – using it to back up our relevance, measure our progress, and guide our decisions at every turn. We'll also chat about how to navigate those pesky constraints in data collection and even how to weave stories seamlessly into our data narrative. Plus, we'll explore techniques for tracking trends and spotting behavior change.
Stick around as we cover data-driven goodness from start to finish!
00:00 Introduction and Webinar Recap
00:48 The Importance of Data in Grant Applications
01:41 The Role of Data in Nonprofit Operations
02:01 When and How to Start Collecting Data
02:57 The ROI Framework and Data
04:01 Understanding Internal and External Data
04:26 Quantitative vs Qualitative Data
05:51 Challenges in Data Collection and Creative Solutions
08:24 Using Data to Inform Programs and Engage Stakeholders
08:42 Five Questions to Evaluate Your Data Collection
Challenge Question:
Is your data reflecting a realistic picture of your impact? If not, do you need to adjust?
Read the full show notes: www.teresahuff.com/149
Connect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: https://teresahuff.com/share-quiz/
Social:
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12544635/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/huffteresa/
https://www.instagram.com/grantwritingsimplified/
https://www.pinterest.com/grantwritingsimplified/
https://youtube.com/@grantwritingsimplified
Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:
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Join me on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip
As we dive into the hustle of year-end activities, the race to finish strong is on for nonprofit leaders, grant writers, and consultants. In this busy season, we need to recognize that finishing well may mean finishing with rest and recovery.
Let's take a cue from coaches and explore the strategic use of timeouts to navigate the challenges and finish the year on a high note.
Acknowledge the Chaos: Embrace the Timeout
The year-end rush can often feel like a relentless marathon. Acknowledge the chaos, and don't be afraid to embrace a timeout. Recognizing the need for a breather is not a sign of weakness, but rather a strategic move to ensure your team sustains momentum. This is even true if you’re a team of one.
Team Focus: Pay Attention to Needs
Whether you're leading a team or flying solo, pay close attention to the needs of those around you. A timeout isn't just for your benefit; it's an opportunity to assess the collective energy and well-being of your team. Understanding their needs ensures you're all on the same page and ready to tackle the challenges ahead.
Timeout Lessons from Coaches
To top off the busy holiday season, many people are involved in sports as well. We can borrow a lesson from coaches and the 5 common reasons they call a timeout during the game:
Break the Momentum Change Your Strategy Correct Mistakes Rest Motivate Your PlayersSometimes, a timeout is more than just a break. It's a chance to regroup, refocus, and deliver a pep talk that motivates your team for the challenges that lie ahead.
Timeout Wisdom: Not Giving Up, but Leveling Up
Calling a timeout isn't the equivalent of throwing in the towel. On the contrary, it's a smart and strategic move.
As the year draws to a close, remember that effective leadership involves knowing when to push forward and when to pause. So, take that timeout, recharge, and set the stage for a successful finish to the year.
To read today's full episode: The Power of Pause: 5 Reasons to Call Timeout in Your Nonprofit
To watch and share my TEDx Talk, The Real ROI of Grant Writing.
Challenge Question:
Do you need to call a timeout?
Connect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer?
Social:
LinkedIn Community LinkedIn Instagram Pinterest YouTubeGet on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:
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Join me on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip
Celebrating Three Years of Grant Writing Simplified
It’s been three years since I launched the Grant Writing Simplified Podcast, and it’s been an amazing journey. The show has over 100,000 downloads from over 140 countries across six continents. I’ve made friends all over the world and we’ve come together as a community. I’m incredibly grateful for my team’s hard work and dedication in making the show possible.
Shifting the Conversations Around Nonprofit Work
In the world of grants, we need to think beyond just the money. If you've listened to my TEDx talk, we need to focus on the Return on Impact (ROI). Funders need to know they will get a return for investing in your nonprofit.
To build a successful ROI, nonprofits need to be Relevant, Optimized, and Interact authentically. Once we lock all three of those in, that's when we can really make progress and we can get results around our impact. It's important that we are helping people understand that. Nonprofits play an important role in educating the world about their mission. Grants aren’t a quick fix; nonprofit work is a long game.
There's an urgency now more than ever to support nonprofits, to shift some things in the sector, to change the conversations around nonprofit work. I can't do it myself. But I can help give you the tools, the ideas, the verbiage and help you become more comfortable with the conversations. I talked to a lot of nonprofit leaders, grant writers, and consultants. There's a need to shift the conversation about how we support nonprofits, how we support funding, how we show up.
I get a lot of questions about grants from nonprofits who have heard, “Oh, you should get grant funding. There are grants out there that'll fix everything.” Ouch! There seems to be this mindset that grants are the easy answer, when in reality that's getting a little bit ahead of themselves if they don't have the other pieces in place. Many nonprofits still have some work to do in this area. I know that's hard to hear a little bit of tough love, but some time invested in the right things can really pay off down the road.
Grants aren't a quick fix; they're not quick money. They're not an overnight way to fund your nonprofit. They're a really small part of a much bigger fundraising plan, and you need those pieces in place. Grants are more of a long-term seed planting and cultivating to build those relationships over time to build out your strategy effectively.
An old proverb says, “Be not afraid of growing slowly; be only afraid of standing still. Growing slowly produces deep roots.” That's true in this context as well. With nonprofit work and with grants, it does take time just like planting seeds. You can't be digging them up and checking them every day to see if the seeds are growing. You have to tend and cultivate and water and let the seeds do their work. Same with grants and nonprofits, We have to cultivate and care for them and provide the right environment and the right conditions.
Booking a Mentor-On-Call Strategy Call
If you’re feeling overwhelmed with trying to help your nonprofit apply for grants, then a Mentor On Call Strategy Call may be a helpful next step. You can book a one on one Zoom call with me to get feedback on any questions you may have and access to an expert. You’ll get clear action steps to keep moving forward and new strategies to level up.
Holiday Zoom Party
To celebrate the holidays, I’m hosting a Holiday Zoom Party! This is a chance to hang out on Zoom, ask mentor questions, share stories about grants, and celebrate the holidays together. Be sure to sign up for my email list or message me on LinkedIn to get an invitation to the Zoom Party.
To read today's full episode: Celebrating Three Years of Grant Writing Simplified
To watch and share my TEDx Talk, The Real ROI of Grant Writing.
Challenge Question:
What do you need to have in place before you start looking for grants? Join us for the Holiday Zoom Party and let’s chat about it!
Connect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer?
Social:
LinkedIn Community LinkedIn Instagram Pinterest YouTubeGet on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:
www.teresahuff.com/vip
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Interested in hopping on a small group call with me? Sign up at www.teresahuff.com/help and I’ll keep you in the loop!
Unlocking Grant Funding: Moving Beyond Ideas and Building Impactful Programs
As summer winds down, I’m seeing renewed energy in the world of fundraising and grants. With this transition, a common question is echoing through conversations—both in my inbox and across online forums. It goes something like this, "I've got an amazing idea. Can I get a grant to fund it?” Or others ask, “Why aren't funders supporting my groundbreaking idea?"
Let’s dig into this topic and shed light on why grantmakers seek more than just brilliant ideas. We’ll explore the art of turning ideas into impactful programs, a journey that requires Relevance, Optimization, and Interaction.
The Power of Moving Beyond Ideas
Remembering my TEDx talk and our recent episodes, you might remember the three pillars of building your ROI: Relevant, Optimize, and Interact. These pillars pave the way for a tangible Return on Impact. Ideas, while important sparks, are only the beginning. The question is: Is your idea Relevant, is it Optimized for action, and are you actively Interacting with others in authentic ways to gather their input?
Ideas: The Starting Point
Ideas are like stars in the sky—plentiful and enchanting. We all have them, and they're often fleeting. Just as you might contemplate getting ice cream after dinner, ideas come and go. But securing grant funding requires more than fleeting notions. It necessitates a solid, active program in motion.
From Ideas to Relevance: The Story of Dooshima
Let's rewind a bit to a strategy call I had with Dooshima. She had an incredible idea—a passion born from personal experience, a desire to transform maternal healthcare in rural communities. However, she faced the challenge of translating that passion into a program that grantmakers could champion. The story resonates because countless people are brimming with such stories of need and possibility.
Listen to the episode to hear Dooshima's question and my advice to her.
Elevating Your Impact with Strategy Calls
Don't stress if you're at the idea stage—that’s an exciting beginning. All good programs start with ideas. If you're seeking direction, strategy calls can be your guiding light. In these sessions we’ll map out a clear roadmap, transforming your ideas into actionable steps. Whether you're starting from scratch or amplifying an existing program, strategy calls provide the momentum you need to make a real difference.
Embrace Change and Spark Transformation
As you navigate the world of grants and funding, remember that your idea is just the start. Embrace the journey of turning that idea into a program that's rooted in Relevance, Optimized for success, and backed by meaningful Interactions. Grant funding isn't just about receiving financial support—it's about igniting change, improving lives, and leaving a lasting impact. So, let's roll up our sleeves, build those impactful programs, and together, let's change the world for the better.
To read today's full episode: From Ideas to Impact: Unveiling the Key to Successful Grant Funding
To watch and share my TEDx Talk, The Real ROI of Grant Writing.
Challenge Question:
What’s one idea where you need to take action? Let me know and we’ll brainstorm together!
And if you need extra support, book a call at www.teresahuff.com/mentor.
Episode 96 - Nonprofit Strategy Call: Gaining Clarity for a Nonprofit’s Next Steps Go to MyEasyGrant.com to find, cultivate, and apply to relevant foundations using Easy Grant by Sparrow Nonprofit Solutions. Watch and share my TEDx Talk: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Resources:Connect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer?
Social:
LinkedIn Community LinkedIn Instagram Pinterest YouTubeGet on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:
www.teresahuff.com/vip
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Interested in hopping on a small group call with me? Sign up at www.teresahuff.com/help and I’ll keep you in the loop!
We Constantly Talk About Learning. But What About Unlearning?
We all know lifelong learning matters. I'm constantly encouraging you to pick up new skills, strategies, and ways of thinking to stay sharp and relevant. But here's the thing—sometimes we need to let go of the old to make room for the new. As crucial as learning is, unlearning may be just as vital to our growth and ability to adapt.
When We're Stuck, It's Often Because We Need to Unlearn
I was thinking about this the other day and realized that when we try implementing new things but just can't move forward, it could be because we need to unlearn outdated habits or mindsets blocking our progress. If we want to reach the next level personally or professionally, we likely need to release our white-knuckled grip on the status quo. Because here's the hard truth: what got you here won't necessarily get you there. And what got you here will also keep you here.
Pursuing Innovation May Require Unlearning
For example, as you learn exciting new tools and strategies (like AI!), approach them with openness to unlearn any preconceived notions or processes that may close you off to new breakthroughs or ways of working. Don't let fear of the unknown prevent you from trying something new.
Signs You May Need to Unlearn Something:
You complain about being stuck but keep doing the same things You resist feedback or suggestions from others You feel overwhelmed trying to learn new skills on top of old ones You find yourself thinking "I already know this" rather than actively listeningWhy Unlearning Matters
The bottom line? Lifelong learning matters—and lifelong unlearning does too. Progress requires releasing comfortable but constraining ways of thinking and doing to create space for the new. Reexamine your assumptions, habits, and beliefs through curiosity, not defensiveness.
Unlearning Propels You Forward
Unlearning isn't easy, but it can propel you forward. By letting go, you make room for progress to grow. I believe in you, my friends!
To read today's full episode: The Art of Letting Go: Why Unlearning is as Important as Learning
To watch and share my TEDx Talk, The Real ROI of Grant Writing.
Challenge Questions:
What old habits or mindsets can you let go of to pursue breakthroughs? Where might you be clinging to the status quo out of fear? How can you become more open to feedback and growth?I’d love to hear about your work, so shoot me an email and let’s chat!
Go to MyEasyGrant.com to find, cultivate, and apply to relevant foundations using Easy Grant by Sparrow Nonprofit Solutions. Watch and share my TEDx Talk: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Resources Mentioned:Connect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer?
Social:
LinkedIn Community LinkedIn Instagram Pinterest YouTubeGet on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:
www.teresahuff.com/vip
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Join me on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip
Revisiting the ROI Journey
It's time for a heart-to-heart about a topic that's close to all our missions: authentic interactions in this tech-savvy world. So grab your favorite cup of inspiration, settle in, and let's dive into the final chapter of our ROI journey – the all-important art of Interacting.
Remember when we kicked off this ROI conversation? In nonprofit work, grantmakers are looking for a Return on Impact. We broke down the pillars of my ROI Framework: Relevance, Optimize, and Interact. We chatted about being Relevant in Episode 135, and the importance of Optimizing in Episode 136. Now we’re going to come back to discussInteract, the juiciest slice of the ROI pie.
The Human Touch in the Age of AI
While we’re on the subject of Interacting, let's address the elephant in the digital room – AI. Yes, it's impressive, and it's changing the game. But guess what? It won't replace the magic that happens between humans. Amidst the buzz, never forget that there's a flesh-and-blood person on the other end of every click, every tap, every email.
So, you might wonder, how do we use AI without losing our humanity? Great question! We use it to optimize, to fine-tune our approach, but not to replace the essence of what makes us connect – genuine, heart-to-heart communication. Whether it's a grant application, an email, or a good old-fashioned phone call, we're speaking to people, not bank accounts.
Remember Adam Witty's golden words, "Business moves at the speed of trust." Well, guess what? That's our rhythm too! In the nonprofit world, trust is the currency that fuels our impact. Trust is what propels us forward even before the race begins.
We’ve had some great conversations about this already. In Episode 105, Kevin Fitzpatrick shared how meeting donors face-to-face is more than just dollars and cents – it's about human connection. In Episode 133, Sherry Quam Taylor urged us to be curious, to ask questions that uncover stories and passions. She challenged us to ask questions like, “How did you become so generous?” and then listen.
And then there's Derik Timmerman's challenge from Episode 143 – have coffee with 90 people in 90 days. Can you imagine the support network of relationships we can grow in that time?
Let's talk to those grantmakers, those nonprofits, those potential partners. Let's dive deep, listen closely, and build bridges that carry our impact far beyond ourselves.
Return on Impact isn't just about numbers; it's about the ripples of change we create, the lives we touch, and the legacy we weave.
To read today's full episode: Humanity in the Age of AI: Navigating Authentic Connections for Lasting Impact
To watch and share my TEDx Talk, The Real ROI of Grant Writing.Challenge Question:
How will you build your Interactions this week? I’d love to hear about your work, so shoot me an email and let’s chat!
Resources Mentioned:
Episode 105 - Creating Clarity Around How to Obtain Major Gifts for Your Nonprofit Episode 133 - How Design, Creativity and Relationships Intersect With Budget Transparency Episode 143 - Formula for Nonprofit Success: Balancing Heart, Grit, and Brains Go to MyEasyGrant.com to find, cultivate, and apply to relevant foundations using Easy Grant by Sparrow Nonprofit Solutions. Watch and share my TEDx Talk: The Real ROI of Grant WritingConnect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer?
Social:
LinkedIn Community LinkedIn Instagram Pinterest YouTubeGet on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:
www.teresahuff.com/vip
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Join me on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip
The Truth About Grant Readiness
If you’ve followed me for any amount of time, you know I’m a big advocate for grant readiness, because the more prepared you are before you start, the better chance you have of winning a grant. But I’m also a big believer in taking action. The truth is, grant readiness is a lot like parenting. You need a certain amount of stability, but you’re never really 100% ready. At some point, you have to just start and then learn as you go.
My friend Derik Timmerman founded Sparrow Nonprofit Solutions to help nonprofits succeed in their fundraising. In this episode of Grant Writing Simplified, Derik tells the story of how Sparrow Nonprofit Solutions started when he realized he had to get a little rowdy, and how you can energize your board members while you get the critical grant readiness pieces in place.
Balancing Heart, Grit, and Brains
Most nonprofits are full of passion for their cause and determination to stick with it, but they struggle with the business mindset in one of two ways. Either they lack the business knowledge needed to run a nonprofit, or they don’t realize the impact they can have when they think outside the box.
It takes more than heart and grit to run a nonprofit. It requires a combination and a balance of heart, grit, and brains to see the mission truly take off. You need all three in tandem.
Derik explains further about the importance of business elements in nonprofits and the core elements of grant readiness. Your nonprofit needs just four elements in place before you can win grants through EasyGrant.
Why do we exist? Forming your mission. What is a win? Creating a vision. Who are when when we're winning? Defining values. How do we win? Developing a strategy.If you can’t answer these four questions, Derik can help through a board retreat called BoardSpark. BoardSpark is especially helpful for languishing boards, if the board is in a transition, or if it’s been a long time since the board evaluated the organizational mission, vision, values, and key habits. Derik has seen many struggling nonprofit board members leave re-energized in their work.
While passion and persistence are necessary ingredients for impact in the nonprofit world, we need to mix them with equal parts business acumen and daring creativity. Consider how you can take your next step today.
To read today's full episode: Formula for Nonprofit Success: Balancing Heart, Grit, and Brains
To watch and share my TEDx Talk, The Real ROI of Grant Writing.Challenge Question:
When you consider your nonprofit, do you know why you exist, what is a win, who are you when you are winning, and how do you win? I’d love to hear about your organization, so shoot me an email!Meet Derik Timmerman
Derik Timmerman is the Founder of Sparrow Nonprofit Solutions, a nationwide consulting firm helping nonprofits maximize their world-changing impact. In addition to coaching nonprofit professionals at all levels, Derik is a nationally-recognized speaker and author on a variety of nonprofit subjects including fundraising, grant research/writing, and board development.Prior to founding Sparrow, Derik was a management consultant at McKinsey & Company and a US Army Intelligence Officer with two combat deployments to Iraq. Derik earned a Bachelor's in Computer Science from the United States Military Academy at West Point, as well as a Masters, PhD, and CFRE certification in fundraising. Derik has a passion for chocolate chip cookies, burning them off on nearby hiking trails with his three boys, and living out his life's core purpose of building factories of hope.
Connect with Derik Timmerman:
MyEasyGrant.com LinkedInResources Mentioned:
40 Laws of Nonprofit Impact Monday.com Sparrow Nonprofit Solutions: Gala Guide Sparrow Nonprofit Solutions: BoardSpark Go to MyEasyGrant.com to find, cultivate, and apply to relevant foundations using Easy Grant by Sparrow Nonprofit Solutions. Watch and share my TEDx Talk: The Real ROI of Grant WritingConnect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer?
Social:
LinkedIn Community LinkedIn Instagram Pinterest YouTubeGet on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:
www.teresahuff.com/vip
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Join me on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip
Streamlining Systems for Nonprofit Success
Can you believe we’re already nearing the end of summer? As we charge ahead into the second half of 2023, now is a great time to pause and evaluate whether your nonprofit's systems are working optimally for you.
A while back, we talked about my favorite tech tools and the importance of systems for grant strategy. With the development of AI and emerging technology, it’s more important than ever to understand the strategy behind your systems so you can use them most effectively.
Today, let's dive deeper into other critical systems to consider as a nonprofit.
If you feel your organization could use some fine-tuning in these areas, no worries! Reach out anytime to schedule an advisory session - we can shore things up to end the year strong and kick off 2024 organized and ready. For a comprehensive guide to crafting effective systems, be sure to check out my Fast Track to Grant Writer VIP Program.
Key Systems for Nonprofit Success
Over the years, I’ve used many different systems to streamline my grant writing business. Even though I now focus on coaching and strategy, having robust systems in place remains crucial.
Digital and paper file organization Password management (I love LastPass!) Calendar with recurring task reminders Note-taking and action items Contact management Donor updates Budget and finances Internal communications Strategic planning Fundraising and grants Program data collection and reporting Mapping big goals into daily tasks
Some key areas for nonprofits to track include:Are Your Systems Serving You?
While well-designed systems are invaluable, let's keep it real - we all have off days! The key is not getting stuck in reactionary mode and knowing which systems are truly mission-critical.
Can Automating Help Your Nonprofit Work?
Look for signs like:
Dropped balls or missed deadlines Repetitive administrative tasks Re-explaining processes frequently Missing key data for grant applicationsThis indicates it may be time to optimize your systems! Identifying areas to automate can free up time and energy for your most important work.
The time invested now will pay dividends as we progress through 2023 and beyond. Reach out any time to strategize streamlining systems tailored for your nonprofit's needs. Here's to a smooth and successful second half of the year!
To read today's full episode: Streamline Systems for Nonprofit Success
To watch and share my TEDx Talk, The Real ROI of Grant Writing.
Challenge Question:What is one system or workflow you can evaluate this month to help streamline your nonprofit's operations? I’d love to hear about your organization, so shoot me an email!
LastPass Secure Passwords Episode 21: Tips for Successful Grant Writing & Federal Grant Project Management: Interview with Brandi VanAntwerp, CoxHealth Foundation Grants Administrator Episode 52: Business Building: The Tech Tools I Use Most in My Grant Writing Business Episode 62: Pro Tips to Step Up Your Nonprofit Grant Strategy with Systems Go to MyEasyGrant.com to find, cultivate, and apply to relevant foundations using Easy Grant by Sparrow Nonprofit Solutions. Watch and share my TEDx Talk: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Resources Mentioned:Connect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer?
Social:
LinkedIn Community LinkedIn Instagram Pinterest YouTubeGet on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:
www.teresahuff.com/vip
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Join me on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip
Mid-Year Check-In
It’s hard to believe the summer is half over already! Where did the year go? I don’t know about you, but I’m a goal-setter, so mid-year is a good time to check in on my progress. Like most years, I’ve had a lot of unexpected things come up. It’s a process of learning to roll with the changes and adjust as I go.As I evaluate how to move forward for the rest of this year, I thought it would be a good time to share a few tips I’ve learned to help you reach your goals.
Make Progress with Micro-Habits
One method of goal-setting is to set up micro-habits. Rather than setting ourselves up for failure with a huge goal we likely won’t reach, where can we create micro-habits to set ourselves up for a nearly 100% win? Those have a surprisingly compounding effect.
Micro-habits are small actions that help lead us towards our goals. They're easy to accomplish consistently and have a compounding effect.
7 Steps for Setting Micro-Habits for Success
Assess Your Progress:
Look at your goals from the beginning of the year. Are you on track? Have you accomplished what you hoped for by now? Don’t be too hard on yourself if your progress isn't exactly where you expected it to be. Instead, use this time to evaluate, adjust, and adapt. Be Flexible
Choose to adapt when life throws unexpected things at you. Keep pushing forward and don’t give up. Be Deliberate
When unexpected opportunities or hurdles come, deliberately decide where these things fit in the bigger picture. Be sure to pace yourself and take a rest when you need to. Be Intentional
Be intentional when choosing your micro-habit. Consider the larger goal of who or what you want to become and identify a habit that will help you get there. Define and visualize where you want to be in the next month, three months, or by the end of the year. Be Strategic
Identify areas where consistent action will have a meaningful impact on your larger objectives. Then integrate micro-habits into your existing daily routine by choosing a trigger. A trigger is a specific time or event in your day that serves as a reminder to do the new habit. Be Accountable
Setting goals, micro-habits, and triggers is only half the battle. We all need accountability to stay on track. If you need an accountability partner, shoot me an email. Stay Clear on Your Vision
Make sure your bigger purpose is clear. Why are you doing this? What will this move you closer to? That will help you stay motivated and on track.The key is to set a trigger and stick to it, because it takes about a month for a behavior to become a routine. By setting deliberate micro-habits strategically aligned with our bigger picture, we can actively work towards becoming better versions of ourselves each day. And you don’t have to do it alone; I’m here to support you.
Keep pushing forward; you've got this!
To read today's full episode: Mid-Year Goal Check: Assess Your Progress and Set Micro-Habits for Success
To watch and share my TEDx Talk, The Real ROI of Grant Writing.Challenge Question:
What micro-habit will you commit to every day for the next 30 days?
Resources Mentioned:
Other Grant Writing Simplified podcasts to help you reach your goals: Leadership Lessons from a Green Beret: How to Lead for Success Master of One: The Role of Excellence in Our Work 5 Easy Grant Writing Tips to Build Strategic, Lasting Relationships Go to MyEasyGrant.com to find, cultivate, and apply to relevant foundations using Easy Grant by Sparrow Nonprofit Solutions. Watch and share my TEDx Talk: The Real ROI of Grant WritingConnect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer?
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LinkedIn Community LinkedIn Instagram Pinterest YouTubeGet on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:
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ROI for Foodies
I enjoy watching some of the Food Network challenges because it’s fun to discover new baking ideas. While watching an episode last week, I noticed another reason the competitions are so much fun to watch.
Grant writers and Food Network competitors go through a similar process in hopes of winning money. To win the prize, we all have to show the judges how they will get a Return on Investment - or in the case of nonprofits, a Return on Impact - by investing in us.
In my TEDx talk, I explain how the key to writing a winning grant is to show the grant funder the Return on Impact (ROI) they’ll get. Funders aren’t looking for a return on investment like a for-profit business. Instead, grantmakers want to give grants to organizations they know will make an impact on the community, just like the judges on the Food Network want to invest in chefs that will contribute to the baking community and represent the Food Network well.
9 Ways Food Network Challenges are Like Grant Writing:
The judges provide clear instructions and a goal before the competition begins. The competitors can be creative, but they still have to stay within defined parameters. The competitors have to make a reduction to eliminate any fluff or distractions. (Check out Episode 16 for examples of how to do this in grant writing!) The challenge always includes a tight deadline, so competitors have to practice and be prepared to thrive under pressure. Competitors must adapt quickly when mistakes and unexpected hurdles occur. Judges love a good story, as long as it is relevant and concise. Participants must present a complete, finished product. Most competitors won’t win the prize, but they don’t give up on their dream. Before the participants do anything, they sketch out their vision and devise a strategy to transform that dream to reality.Many competitors skip the vision and strategy and go straight for writing the grant, but this should actually be the first thing both grant writers and Food Network competitors do. Without a vision and goal, there’s no direction, only chaos and confusion.
Conclusion
Your ROI isn’t just a formula for how to position the grant for funders. It’s also a vision for your organization. It’s your nonprofit’s lighthouse. The return you want to give your funders is the same as the impact you want to have on your community, it’s the reason you do this work every day; it’s what keeps you anchored so you don’t drift from your mission.
To read today's full episode: 9 Ways Food Network Challenges Mirror the Grant Writing Process
To watch and share my TEDx Talk, The Real ROI of Grant Writing.Challenge Question:
Which Food Network lesson do you need to implement or improve upon in your work?
Resources Mentioned:
Grant Writing Simplified Episode 16: How to Write Tight Storytelling Series: Episode 58: Are You Telling Your Nonprofit Story? How Coffee Mugs Are Like Grant Writing. Episode 59: How to Tell Your Nonprofit Story Through Video. Episode 60: 5 Questions for a More Compelling Nonprofit Story. Episode 64: Using Data to Tell Nonprofit Stories: 6 Tips to Flex Your Grant Writing Muscles. Go to MyEasyGrant.com to find, cultivate, and apply to relevant foundations using Easy Grant by Sparrow Nonprofit Solutions. Watch and share my TEDx Talk: The Real ROI of Grant WritingConnect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer?
Social:
LinkedIn Community LinkedIn Instagram Pinterest YouTubeGet on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:
www.teresahuff.com/vip
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Join me on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip
The Link Between Competition and a Scarcity Mindset
Competition is at the heart of every grant application, and a scarcity mindset can come from a position of competition. Many nonprofits work on a very limited budget, so the struggle with a scarcity mindset is common. After all, you wouldn’t be applying for grants if you already had the money, right?
Nonprofits applying for the same grant are likely providing parallel services to a similar demographic, so the unfortunate reality is that organizations fighting for the same cause are competing with one another for funds and therefore, feeding the sector-wide scarcity mindset.
In today’s podcast, retired Army Colonel Dr. Vincent Lindenmeyer helps us think creatively to work collaboratively with otherwise competing organizations so both teams can overcome the scarcity mindset and get more done.
What Collaboration and Grant Funding Look Like Together
During his 26 years in the US Army, Vince specialized in engineering, logistics management, and strategic studies, so he knows what creative collaboration looks like. He now applies his knowledge and experience to the nonprofit sector. As principal of Beacon 4sight Group, Vince helps women, veterans, minorities, persons with disabilities, and the formerly incarcerated start nonprofits and businesses to create economic growth for equality and justice.
Many of Vince’s clients begin with little more than a dream, but he helps them get their nonprofit started in 90 days. He knows the power of creative collaboration to overcome scarcity. Like-minded organizations need to share resources, time, and talent to create in-kind partnerships based on trading complimentary skills and backgrounds.
7 Empowering Benefits of Working Collaboratively
Wonderful things can happen when organizations work together:
Extra personnel
Everyone gets more done when you have more hands on deck working toward the same goals. Share tips and tricks
Share knowledge to solve problems and work more efficiently. Stronger bottom line
Struggling nonprofits become stronger by giving and receiving resources and expertise. Larger network
Collaboration breeds collaboration, so when you partner with an organization, you will also get to work with their connections. Stay in your lane
Collaboration means sharing complementary skills to boost each other’s weaknesses so you can focus on your strengths. Increased visibility and community awareness
When you get more done together, both organizations get a piece of the spotlight to bring awareness to both your cause and your brand. Celebrate your wins together
Collaboration means having more to celebrate and more people to celebrate with!If we truly want to make things better and improve our mission, then we have to cooperate. It's not about us. It's not about the scarcity. It's so much more.
We have to work together. We have to ask ourselves how we can give back to the community and improve each other’s mission, whether or not it comes back directly to us.
To read today's full episode: 7 Reasons Working Collaboratively Helps Your Team Get More Done
To watch and share my TEDx Talk, The Real ROI of Grant Writing.Challenge Question:
Where do you see a scarcity in your nonprofit? Can you identify another organization with whom to collaborate to turn the scarcity into abundance?Meet Dr. Vince Lindenmeyer (from https://beacon4today.com/resources/)
Dr. Vince Lindenmeyer, Colonel, US Army (Retired), is a Principal of the Beacon 4sight Group that helps women, veterans, minorities, persons with disabilities, and the formerly incarcerated start nonprofits and businesses to create economic growth for equality and justice. Colonel Lindenmeyer served a 26-year career with overseas tours to Korea, Egypt, Qatar, and Iraq, earning the Bronze Star Medal. As an educator, Dr. Lindenmeyer has taught face-to-face and distance learning over the past 20-years. He earned a BS in Systems Engineering (West Point, United States Military Academy), master’s degrees (three) in Logistics Management, M.Ed., an MA in Strategic Studies, and a Ph.D. in Education.
Connect with Vince
Beacon4Today.com Email: [email protected] LinkedIn
Play Bigger: How Pirates, Dreamers, and Innovators Create and Dominate Markets, written by Al Ramadan, Dave Peterson, Christopher Lochhead, and Kevin Maney "Iron" Mike Steadman - Ironbound Thrive Initiative - Free Business Coaching for Young Urban Entrepreneurs A Course in Miracles, written by Foundation For Inner Peace The Basics of a Course in Miracles Audible, written and narrated by Marianne Williamson, published by Better Listen Northeast Louisiana Arts Council Watch and share my TEDx Talk: The Real ROI of Grant Writing Go to MyEasyGrant.com to find, cultivate, and apply to relevant foundations using Easy Grant by Sparrow Nonprofit Solutions.
Resources Mentioned:Connect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer?
Social:
LinkedIn Community LinkedIn Instagram Pinterest YouTubeGet on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:
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Ask Not What the Funder Can Do for You…In our last episode, we talked about how your nonprofit can stay relevant to funders, in the community, and as a grant writer. Today we’re going to talk about how to write stronger grant proposals and build relationships with funders by aligning the relevance of your program to their mission.
I talked about relevance in my TEDx Talk, “The Real ROI of Grant Writing.” Funders need to know they will get a Return on Impact for investing in your nonprofit. This means you need to convince the funder that your nonprofit is Relevant, Optimized, and Interacting in meaningful ways. If you haven’t already, you can watch my TEDx talk on YouTube.
How Strategic Positioning Can Help Build Your ROI
Grant writers look for grants that will help the nonprofit reach their organizational goals. Of course funders have goals too, but their goals are not necessarily related to the success of your organization.
A funder’s mission is to serve the community in a specific way. For a nonprofit, strategic positioning is about writing a grant proposal from the funder’s priorities. The funder wants to know how investing in your nonprofit will help them accomplish their goals, not yours.
To convince the funder they will get the most return on impact by investing in your nonprofit, show them how your organization is relevant to their goals. They need to see how your program will help the external community, even if it's building your internal capacity.
You can do that by strategically positioning the grant to show how your nonprofit aligns with their goals.
5 Tips to Align Your Program with a Funder’s Goals
Oswald Chambers wrote, “Life serves back in the coin you pay.” Let’s keep that in mind in the context of our grant writing work. Look at the bigger picture, the overall context in which your organization has an impact, and consider how you are serving and giving to the community. Then write the grant from a position of service.
Five ways to show how your organization serves the funder’s mission:
Present your value exchange as a gift Offer something that is meaningful to them Ensure your goals align Explain how your program will help them accomplish their goals Help them envision the end resultsTo read today's full episode: 5 Easy Grant Writing Tips to Build Strategic, Lasting Relationships
To watch and share my TEDx Talk, The Real ROI of Grant Writing.
Challenge Question:
How will you position your grant proposal from an attitude of service?ResourcesMentioned:
Go to MyEasyGrant.com to find, cultivate, and apply to relevant foundations using Easy Grant by Sparrow Nonprofit Solutions. Watch and share my TEDx Talk: The Real ROI of Grant WritingConnect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer?
Social:
LinkedIn Community LinkedIn Instagram Pinterest YouTubeGet on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:
www.teresahuff.com/vip
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Join me on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip Welcome, Up-and-Coming World Changers!
Are you thinking about a career in grant writing, but don’t know where to start?
I have a passion to train and equip grant writers with the skills they need to be successful because I had an amazing mentor who helped me get started. In today’s episode of Grant Writing Simplified, I had a blast talking shop with my friend and fellow grant writing mentor, Holly Rustic. After nearly twenty years as a grant writing consultant, Holly has dedicated herself to teaching a tribe of grant writers to drive positive change for nonprofits while having an abundant lifestyle.
In this episode, we talk about the top questions we hear from new grant writers. You’ll benefit from our combined forty years of grant writing experience and get answers to your top freelance grant writing questions.
Top Questions from New Grant WritersGrab a pen and notepad because you’re about to get loads of actionable guidance and practical advice as Holly and I share everything we wish we had known when we started grant writing, such as:
Where do I start?
What kind of experience do I need?
Should I write for free?
How do I negotiate prices and rate increases?
How can I avoid misunderstandings with clients?
How do I present my value as a grant writer to potential clients?
What is a Master Grant Template and how will it help you make the world a better place?
…And much more!
To read today's full episode: Expert Answers to Your Top Questions on How to Become a Grant Writer
To watch and share my TEDx Talk, The Real ROI of Grant Writing.
Challenge Question:What skills can you learn, develop, or adapt to grant writing? Make a list, choose one skill, and decide what you will do to move forward.
Meet Holly Rustick:Holly has nearly two decades of experience helping nonprofit organizations and grant writers (and volunteers, board members, and everyday people!) get funding. She has learned a lot over the years and has dedicated herself to teaching a tribe of grant writers to drive positive change for nonprofits while having an abundant lifestyle.
Connect with Holly:GrantWritingandFunding.com
YouTube
Facebook
LinkedIn
Instagram
Resources Mentioned:Nonprofit Consulting Conference Online
The Beginner's Guide to Grant Writing: Tips, Tools, & Templates to Write Winning Grants
Other Resources:Go to MyEasyGrant.com to find, cultivate, and apply to relevant foundations using Easy Grant by Sparrow Nonprofit Solutions.
Watch and share my TEDx Talk: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Connect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer?
Social:
LinkedIn Community
LinkedIn
Instagram
Pinterest
YouTube
Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:
www.teresahuff.com/vip
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Join me on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip The ROI of Grant Writing
In my recent TEDx Talk, I talked about the Real ROI of Grant Writing. In the business world, ROI means Return on Investment, but it’s a different mindset in the world of grants. We’re talking about a Return on Impact. In today’s podcast episode, I’ll tell you more about the R in the ROI of grant writing and how knowing this can save you frustration and time so you can write more proposals.
What is the ROI Framework?Funders need to know they will get a Return on Impact for investing in your nonprofit. This means you need to convince the funder that your nonprofit is Relevant, Optimized, and Interacting in meaningful ways.
ROI of Grant Writing:
Relevant
Optimized
Interacting
5 Steps to Evaluate RelevanceOne question I wish more nonprofits would consider is, “How do I know if my organization is relevant?” I recommend the following five steps to determine if and how your organization is relevant to the community, the funders, and the grants you are applying for:
Determine if organization is truly relevant in the community.
Take a critical look at your mission and goals to evaluate if you are serving a real need in the community. Make sure you have the statistics and testimonials to back up your mission statement. If necessary, go back and define your goals more closely.Analyze if your organization is relevant to the funder’s mission and goals.
Make sure you are applying to funders whose mission and goals align with yours. There are consequences to both your organization and the funder if you just chase the money.Now that you’ve determined your organization is relevant in the community, and your mission is relevant to the funders, the next step is to find relevant grants.
Avoid irrelevant research.
Research can be fun, but there are millions of grants and many ways to search. Don't get lost in the never-ending grant search rabbit trail. You don’t need ALL the grants; you just need to find the good-fit grants.To read today's full episode: Nonprofit ROI: 5 Tips to Stay Relevant to Funders and Win More Grants
To watch and share my TEDx Talk, The Real ROI of Grant Writing.
Challenge Question:
Do you need to narrow your focus? Are you clear on what that is?
Resources Mentioned:Go to MyEasyGrant.com to find, cultivate, and apply to relevant foundations using Easy Grant by Sparrow Nonprofit Solutions.
Watch and share my TEDx Talk: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Connect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer?
Social:
LinkedIn Community
LinkedIn
Instagram
Pinterest
YouTube
Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:
www.teresahuff.com/vip
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Join me on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip
As a grant writer for about two decades and winning over $7M for my clients, I’ve learned that grant writing isn’t magic, but there is a formula to increase your chances of winning grant. Today I’m sharing my secret sauce with you in my TEDx Talk! You can read the abbreviated version below or watch the full presentation (complete with pictures!) on YouTube.
Where NOT to Start with Grant Writing
Imagine you're at work when your boss walks by and says, "Hey, I need a favor. I’m supposed to help at the youth shelter fundraiser on Saturday and I can't make it. Can you step in for me?"
As a team player and fan of the youth program, you say, "You bet! Happy to."
Relieved, he says, “Thanks, you’re the best!” On the way out, he adds, "Oh, by the way, it's a marathon. Just get some good running shoes and you'll be fine."
Wait - what? A marathon?
I don’t know about you, but I’m sure not ready for a marathon on Saturday.
…Yet I hear the equivalent of this all the time in the nonprofit world.
People hear someone wants to start a nonprofit and say, "Oh, you should just get a grant for that!"
Or, "You need a new building? I've heard there's grant funding out there.”
Grants aren’t that simple. You don’t “just” get a grant. Like training for a marathon, grants require preparation, strategy, and hard work. Successful grant writing takes consistent effort, uncovering misconceptions, and willingness to approach strategy through a new lens. We must look at grants as part of a much bigger process.
Start with ROIIn business, we know investors are looking for a Return on Investment, or ROI. We put money in and calculate, "How much profit will I get back?"
In the nonprofit world, ROI is more about creating a Return On Impact. You won’t get your investment of time, money, or resources back when you donate to a nonprofit. In the same way, grantmakers are looking forward. They want to know, "How much impact can we make through this work? How much of a ripple effect can we create by partnering together?"
Even better, by giving forward and investing in others, we do get a return back - by way of meaning, relationships, and fulfillment. That's why it's so important for us to band together to help nonprofits build this kind of ROI. A Return on Impact.
ROI FrameworkHow do we go about showing Return on Impact? We do this through what I call the ROI Framework: Relevant, Optimize, and Interact. That’s how we get the results that lead to impact.
Rather than simply writing more grants, let’s move upstream to look at the bigger picture and see how each grant opportunity fits in as part of the whole puzzle. When we put grants into their proper context, that’s when we can effectively build the nonprofit’s ROI.
Relevant
Relevance is twofold in the context of building our ROI Framework:
Establish the relevance of our work to society.
Ensure our work’s relevance to the grantmaker’s mission.
First, we need contextual research to ensure the community need for this project:
What statistics and data support this mission?
Why is this work so critical?
Then we should consider the relevance to the grantmaker:
Whose funding priorities best align with the nonprofit's mission?
What community gaps does the nonprofit fill?
How can they partner to meet those needs?
When thinking through this Relevance, we should consider the logical proof of ROI.
To read today's full epsiode: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Challenge Question:What can you do to increase your nonprofit’s ROI?
Connect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes ot be a grant writer?
Social:
LinkedIn Community LinkedIn Instagram Pinterest YouTubeGet on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:
www.teresahuff.com/vip
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Join me on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip
The collective values and priorities of a society change with each generation. We express our values with our time and money, so those values then drive the economy through the demand for relevant products and services. With each economic shift, the value proposition and marketing methods adapt to the current priorities to provide the most perceived value.
As a nonprofit, you want to be on the peak of the value curve. During our discussion, Mark provided a journey of economic shifts through the history of America to help us understand where we are today and how nonprofits can take advantage of the current transformational economy to engage supporters.
Join us for a journey through history to discover how you can help your nonprofit grow using assets you already have on hand.
What is the Transformational Economy?Civilizations start as tribes in the subsistence economy, where we get enough to meet our needs and live. The goal is to say, “I'm alive.”
As tribes settle, we move to the commodity economy where we harvest commodities such as crops, wood, and mining to buy and trade. The goal is to say, “I'm productive.”
As the value of commodities increases, people move into the product economy where we buy labor savings. So instead of making your own products, we buy products someone else made. The goal is to say, “I’m efficient.” In the United States, we shifted to the product economy during the Industrial Revolution.
As the need for products is met, we shift to the service economy where we free up time by paying for services we previously did on our own.
Then we moved to the experience economy, where people wanted more than a service—they wanted a memorable service.
Now, we are living in a transformational economy, where people want more than interesting memories. They want authentic, meaningful experiences to make things better, whether it’s improving themselves, their workplace, their family, their community, or the world.
This is what people are craving and paying for today, so rapidly growing companies are providing an opportunity for their customers to be better people through their products and services.
How the Transformational Economy Can Help a Nonprofit
The marketing efforts of nonprofits have operated on a service economy mindset, where we focus our recruitment messaging on the services we provide. But since we are in the business of transformation, it should feel natural to embrace the shift and showcase how a contributor makes the world a better place by supporting our cause.
However, amid this shift, nonprofit organizations face a larger struggle to be heard through the noise with minimal marketing dollars. So how does a nonprofit get and sustain supporters’ attention long enough to appeal to their sense of purpose?
The Power of Story to Embrace the Transformational Economy
The most powerful and entertaining way to showcase transformation is through storytelling.
Mark explained, “You can't sell transformation with features, advantages, and benefits. A person will not understand until they have been through the experience. How we do that is by telling a story of somebody who has been through the transformation. You have to tell it as a hero's journey.”To read today's full episode: What is a Transformational Economy, and How Can it Help a Nonprofit?
Challenge Question:
What is a recent initiative you can search for stories of transformation?
Connect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer?
Social:
LinkedIn Community LinkedIn Instagram Pinterest YouTubeGet on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:
www.teresahuff.com/vip
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Join me on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip How to Shake Up the Status Quo and Raise Funds for Your Nonprofit
I talk with a lot of nonprofits each week, and of course they all have one thing in common they need: more funding! That’s why I like to bring in experts in other types of fundraising too. We need to understand the bigger picture of how the strategies fit together.
Today I’m talking with another nonprofit expert who is fantastic at what she does. Sherry Quam Taylor is good at shaking up the status quo and challenging people to think bigger, better, and with excellence to raise funds to serve your nonprofit fully.
Listen as Sherry and I do some myth-busting about fundraising. We also discuss advice on scaling nonprofits.
Transparency and the Gift of Asking, "Why?"Sherry and I discuss the importance of bringing creativity to work. Design and creativity not only help us take care of ourselves, but they also help our organizations grow and build. This can insulate us from becoming stagnant.
The experience Sherry brought from the for-profit world to the nonprofit world helped her tremendously, and that transition helped her learn a lot by simply asking, “Why?” “Why can’t we say that?” Why can’t we spend that?” These questions challenged Sherry and the teams she worked with to look at “why” they were doing things a certain way, and build toward securing donors' best gifts.
Giving the Gift of Time in Nonprofit Relationship BuildingRelationships take time. Rushing relationships does not build strong foundations. As board members, development teams, or even grant writers, relationships are at our heart.
Sherry also shares tools we can use to build those relationships, specifically with investment-level donors. First of all, we need to ask questions and listen with interest. Sherry suggests this gem, “How did you become so generous?”
As I share in my TEDx Talk, building relationships means being conversational and getting to know the person, not just the dollar. Slowing down and being relational with donors can lead them to their best gift. That process can take 12-24 months or more, and that's okay.
To read today's full episode: How Design, Creativity and Relationships Intersect With Budget Transparency
Challenge Question:
What five people can you start building relationships with now? Make that list today.
Meet Sherry Quam Taylor:
Sherry Quam Taylor works with business-minded Nonprofit CEOs who want to scale their organizations’ budgets by 2-5X but need larger amounts of general-operating revenue to do so. The organizations Sherry works with want to reduce dependence on government, earned, or contracted revenue and increase unrestricted revenue from investment-level donors.To achieve this, Sherry helps leaders align their organization's charitable revenue initiatives with their business, programmatic, and strategic growth opportunities. This is the step that most skip! It ensures the funding challenges are solved at the root of the issue and attracts investment-level donors that get this!
As a result of learning her methodology, Sherry’s clients know how to fund their Strategic Plans and add 7-figures of gen-ops revenue to their bottom line. But, mostly, her CEOs can confidently know their development departments and board have transformed into high-ROI revenue generators, aligned their hours with dollars, and broken free from the limitations of transactional fundraising.
Sherry attributes the success of her business to her passion for modeling radical confidence to the future CEOs in her house - her two teenage daughters.
Website: Sherry Quam Taylor LinkedIn YouTube
Connect with Sherry Quam Taylor:Connect with Teresa Huff:
Website: www.teresahuff.com
Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing
Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer?
Social:
LinkedIn Community
LinkedIn
Instagram
Pinterest
YouTube
Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:
www.teresahuff.com/vip
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