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Kelsey Boudin

Kelsey Boudin, President and Founder of Grand River Agency

About Kelsey Boudin

http://kelseyboudin.me

President and Founder, Grand River AgencyWith over 19 years of diverse experience in print journalism, digital media marketing, and nonprofit administration, Kelsey Boudin founded Grand River Agency (formerly Southern Tier Communications Strategies) in 2020. The agency specializes in offering contract-based strategic communications, content marketing, grant proposals, website design, and public relations services to small businesses and nonprofits. Kelsey's career spans roles as an editor, content creator, and grant writer, reflecting his expertise in leading successful digital marketing campaigns, securing funding, and executing various projects.

Posts by Kelsey Boudin:

identify major gift donors

How AI Can Identify Major Gift Donors for Nonprofits: A Data-Driven Approach

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There’s more to artificial intelligence (AI) than creating content. It’s surprising how few in the nonprofit industry are aware of that reality. The rapid development of AI now allows expert nonprofit fundraisers (like myself) to predict donor behavior – and even identify major gift donors for appeals.

How does this benefit you, the busy nonprofit executive? 

Nonprofits often operate with tight budgets, limited resources and a pressing need to maximize impact. You can’t afford to spend endless hours writing grants and courting donors ALL WHILE running your organization and overseeing community programs simultaneously. While grant writing and donor cultivation remain vital nonprofit activities, you need an optimized process that identifies major philanthropists with the least amount of time and effort.

Why scramble for small donations when you can go directly to a nonprofit wellspring of support? Predictive AI is your answer.

Can AI Really Find Major Gift Donors for Nonprofits? Predictive AI is the Key.

Yes! And it’s all about a data-driven approach – supported by predictive AI – that for-profit businesses have been using for years. 

At Grand River Agency, we understand the challenges nonprofits face in achieving sustainable growth. That’s why we’ve invested in a new cutting-edge certification in Artificial Intelligence for Nonprofit Marketing & Fundraising. 

Not all donors are created equal. Some individuals have the capacity and inclination to contribute significantly to your cause, while others may prefer smaller, more frequent contributions.

The key to optimizing fundraising efforts lies in finding the major gift donors — those most likely to make transformative gifts.

Why Identifying Major Gift Donors is Critical

The traditional “spray and pray” approach to fundraising — sending the same appeal to every donor in your database and submitting multiple grant proposals every week — is inefficient and usually yields low returns. Your case for support document may be absolutely amazing. But if it isn’t reaching THE RIGHT prospective funders, you probably won’t achieve fundraising goals.

Nonprofits waste valuable time and resources chasing leads that may not result in substantial contributions. Instead, targeting high-impact donors through predictive AI allows you to:

1. Maximize ROI

By targeting individuals with a higher likelihood and capacity to give, you can achieve greater fundraising outcomes with fewer resources.

2. Build Stronger Relationships

High-impact donors are more likely to become long-term supporters when approached with personalized, thoughtful outreach.

3. Scale Efforts Strategically

With limited staff and time, focusing on the right donors helps your nonprofit grow sustainably.

How AI Analyzes Donor Data to Find Major Gift Donors

Predictive AI uses advanced data analytics and machine learning algorithms to sift through vast amounts of donor data, revealing patterns and insights that would be impossible to uncover manually. 

Here’s how it works:

1. Donor Segmentation

This concept is far from new. You’ve been collecting data on donors for years – from demographic info to donation history to giving priorities. But this is more than keeping a spreadsheet.

AI segments donors into categories such as “major gift prospects,” “repeat donors” or “lapsed donors.” That’s also not new. You’ve also been tailoring messaging based on status markers like these for years. But predictive AI can recommend or can automatically take the next steps to engage them on their terms accordingly.

2. Predictive Analytics

By analyzing historical data, AI can predict which donors are most likely to make significant contributions in the future. For example, if a donor has a history of increasing their gift size over time or has demonstrated a strong interest in specific campaigns, predictive AI can flag them as a high-impact prospect.

Does one type of donor – or even a particular donor – tend to give only at a certain time of year? Perhaps after tax time or more specifically to honor a loved one’s birthday or holiday? AI knows that and once again suggests or takes the next appropriate step.

3. Wealth Screening

AI tools can integrate with wealth screening databases to assess a donor’s financial capacity. Platforms like DonorScope can do this – legally and ethically – by accessing financial records available to the public. By identifying individuals with the means to make major gifts, AI helps nonprofits focus their efforts where they matter most.

What next? You guessed it, it recommends or takes the next logical move in the donor cultivation process.

4. Behavioral Insights

AI tracks donor behavior across multiple touchpoints, such as email opens, event attendance and website visits. These behavioral signals provide clues about a donor’s engagement level and readiness to give. There’s a lot that can be said for the types of content 

Next appropriate steps, of course. Thanks, AI!

5. Real-Time Updates

AI continuously analyzes new data, ensuring your donor insights remain up-to-date. This allows your team to act quickly on emerging opportunities and maintain momentum in your fundraising campaign.

Real-World Example: The AI Advantage in Donor Prospecting

Consider a nonprofit arts organization using predictive AI to identify major gift donors. By analyzing their database, the AI tool uncovers a group of donors who:

  • Regularly attend gala events.
  • Have donated to similar arts organizations in the past.
  • Engage with high-value auction items during fundraisers.
  • Fall within a specific income bracket based on wealth screening data.
  • Are actively perusing your website or other digital content.
  • Traditionally give during certain times of year.
  • & More!

Your organization can now focus its efforts on building relationships with these individuals.  You can promote your nonprofit value proposition in alignment with their specific interests and philanthropic goals. This targeted approach not only increases the likelihood of major gifts but also strengthens donor loyalty.

Why Grand River Agency is Uniquely Positioned to Leverage AI to Boost Your Nonprofit Fundraising

At Grand River Agency, we don’t just leverage AI tools — we offer expertise. Being certified in Artificial Intelligence for Nonprofit Marketing & Fundraising, I lead a nonprofit fundraising team with a deep understanding of both the technology and the unique challenges nonprofits face.

Here’s what sets us apart:

1. Tailored Solutions for Nonprofits

We understand that every nonprofit has its own mission, audience and challenges. We work closely with your team to customize AI strategies that align with your specific goals and needs.

2. Human-Centered Approach

While AI provides powerful insights, it’s the human touch that transforms those insights into action. Our team ensures that every data-driven strategy is executed with care, empathy and a focus on building authentic donor relationships.

We invite prospective funders to partner in your nonprofit mission.

3. Ethical Data Practices

Transparency and ethical data use are at the core of our approach. We ensure that artificial intelligence is used responsibly, respecting donor privacy and maintaining trust. We also help clients to develop a formal AI policy to ensure trust and transparency in their AI practices.

4. Comprehensive Services

From donor segmentation to personalized outreach and campaign optimization, we provide end-to-end support to help you get the most out of AI technology.

Final Thoughts: Predictive AI Offers a Data-Driven Approach to Courting Major Gift Donors

AI is no longer the future of nonprofit fundraising — it’s the HERE and NOW! By harnessing the power of AI to identify high-impact donors, nonprofits can make smarter decisions, build stronger relationships and achieve greater impact.

Grand River Agency is here to help you navigate this exciting new frontier. With our expertise and certification in AI, we’ll empower your nonprofit to thrive in today’s competitive fundraising landscape.

If you need help, contact me today at ke****@gr**************.org. 

your nonprofit needs an AI policy

5 Reasons Your Nonprofit Absolutely Needs an AI Policy in 2025

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Let’s go back a couple years. Even halfway through 2024, I never would’ve thought we’d be talking so seriously – at least in the nonprofit world – about something as exciting and game-changing as artificial intelligence. Sure, generative AI made an almost immediate impact for speeding up the grant writing process, nonprofit marketing and donor communications. But going so far as to discuss nonprofits needing a formal AI policy wasn’t on my 2025 Bingo card. 

Yet, here we are. We’re living in a time when artificial intelligence is reshaping how we operate, communicate and drive impact. 

It’s not just the ability to create at lightning speed. It used to take precious time to write grant proposals, design annual reports and schedule social media posts. Today, we’re using AI to PREDICT donor behavior, personalize communications and gather intelligence for ultimate impact. 

But let’s be clear, while AI has the power to revolutionize the nonprofit industry, it also comes with its own set of challenges. That’s why I firmly believe every nonprofit must have a robust AI policy in place. 

Solid Arguments for Your Nonprofit to Adopt an AI Policy

1. To Protect Donor Privacy Like It’s Your Most Precious Asset

Your donors trust you with their personal data, and that trust is the backbone of your organization. But like any technological advancement, the people who DON’T use it are slow to trust it.

Get it in writing what you WILL and WON’T do with data gained from using predictive fundraising AI. Your AI policy acts as a shield, showing your community that their privacy is non-negotiable.

AI processes unthinkable amounts of data in seconds. Your nonprofit must have a strict AI policy that ensures you’re not only compliant with data privacy laws, but also safeguarding your supporters’ sensitive information. No one wants to be caught in a data breach nightmare. 

2. To Promote Transparency & Build Trust

Imagine if you had a secret ingredient in your fundraising strategy, but you never told anyone what it was. That’s what happens when you use AI without a clear policy. 

You’ve built your nonprofit case for support, and they’ve jumped on board your community mission with an open heart (and an open wallet). Your nonprofit needs their funding to not just operate, but thrive in whatever sector you serve. 

The least you can do is communicate openly and honestly.

By outlining how AI is used in your operations — what data it collects, how it’s processed and how decisions are made — you build trust with your donors. They know you’re not hiding anything, and that goes a long way in strengthening those crucial relationships.

3. To Ensure Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence

AI can inadvertently perpetuate biases if not managed correctly. Establishing ethical guidelines in your AI policy ensures that every decision made by your AI tools is fair, unbiased and aligned with your nonprofit’s values. 

(Remember: you can’t have a nonprofit value proposition without values.)

This proactive approach prevents unintentional harm and keeps your organization’s mission pure. It’s about ensuring that every piece of technology that your nonprofit implements works for community good.

4. To Maintain the Human Touch in a Digital Age

Artificial intelligence can generate content and automate processes, but we always say AI needs the human touch to be effective. 

Beyond that, it can’t replicate the warmth of a genuine human interaction that nonprofits still need to serve communities. Your AI policy should clearly define the boundaries — where AI stops and human connection begins. This balance ensures that while you enjoy the efficiency of AI, your messaging remains heartfelt, authentic and tailored to resonate with your audience.

5. To Prepare for the Future & Stay Agile

The digital landscape is ever-evolving, and what works today will be obsolete in the future with 100% certainty. A comprehensive AI policy is not a one-time document. It’s a living framework that evolves as new technologies emerge. 

You continually update other nonprofit policies – from board governance to employee and volunteer protocols. A nonprofit AI policy is no different. By doing so, you ensure that your organization remains agile, ready to adopt cutting-edge tools while mitigating risks.

Let Us Help You Build a Nonprofit AI Policy to Build Trust & Communication

At Grand River Agency, we’re at the forefront of helping nonprofits in Western New York and beyond to navigate this complex, exciting AI landscape. I recently became certified in Artificial Intelligence for Nonprofit Marketing & Fundraising through Nonprofit Tech for Good. 

AI is a powerful tool, but it’s the human touch that turns technology into meaningful impact. Let’s chat about how we can help you create a nonprofit AI policy that drives success while keeping your values intact. Email me directly at ke****@gr**************.org. 

professional speech writing

Speak Like a Human: Mastering the Art of Professional Speech Writing

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Let’s be honest, the art of speech writing today has lost a bit of  luster. We can blame politics for that. Whatever “side of the aisle” you’re on, the leaders we hear so much in speeches today are word salad monsters and meandering buffoons who never get to any cogent point.

(For whatever reason, that speech style works for millions of Americans, but that’s a different story for a different day.)

The rest of us rank-and-file professionals are still left with the burden of telling stories that actually sense. Could you imagine giving a speech at a trade show, meandering aimlessly from the most recent research to demonizing competitors back to completely unrelated research? You’d be booed off stage!  

So let’s get reacquainted with professional speech writing as it’s meant to be. Let’s prepare to speak like a human.

Professional Speech Writing Tips to Engage Audiences & Become Memorable

Even the most brilliant leader can lose their audience if their speech fails to connect dots or sounds like it was written by a robot. 

Your first hurdle? Attention spans are shorter than ever. The secret to professional speech writing is balancing expertise with humanity. If you get too deep in the weeds, statistics and insider jargon, audiences will get bored and tune you out. If you get too comfy and sprinkle three key points in an hour of personal stories like an annoying recipe blogger, no one will get the point. 

So you have to strike a balance among being:

  • Relatable
  • Credible
  • Knowledgeable
  • Likeable
  • Approachable

As someone who’s spent nearly two decades in the trenches of media and communications, I know the art of speech writing is about connecting with your audience in the most genuine way possible. The best professional speech writers weave a story that augments the thesis, reaching out to viewers/listeners as a friend with a helping hand or guiding perspective. 

Here’s my take on how to use what I call “muscular writing” to craft speeches that aren’t just heard – but felt.

Know Your Audience & Speak Directly to Them

Before you even put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard or voice to AI assistant), think about who’s in your audience. Know your audience, as the cliché goes. Professional speech writing doesn’t aim to impress with technical jargon or convoluted ideas. 

Instead, it focuses on what matters to the people listening. Ask yourself: What do they need to hear? How can you address their challenges in a way that’s relatable? When you tune into your audience’s interests and pain points, you’re not just delivering information — you’re having a conversation.

For example, if you’re speaking to a group of startup founders, share practical anecdotes about overcoming common entrepreneurial hurdles. When your message resonates with their daily struggles, your speech transforms from a monologue into a dialogue that sparks real connection.

Hook ‘Em Early

We all know that the first 30 seconds of any speech are crucial. That’s your golden moment to grab attention. It’s your elevator pitch in live form. Whether it’s a witty remark, a surprising statistic or a poignant story from your own experience, the hook must be powerful and immediate. 

A strong opening sets the stage for everything that follows. It gets your audience salivating for more. It reaches their psyche and speaks to innermost desires, fears or uncertainties. 

Invite your audience to lean in and listen.

Simplify Without Dumbing Down

Speakers often get lost in the labyrinth of their own expertise. While it’s important to showcase your knowledge, your audience isn’t there to be dazzled by complex theories or data. 

They’re there to be inspired! 

Strive to simplify your language. Write to speak concisely. Replace convoluted concepts with clear, quick and powerful statements that hit home. Think of your speech as a friendly conversation where every word counts. The goal is to be memorable and relatable, not to intimidate with complexity.

The Power of Storytelling

Nothing builds connection like a good story. Personal anecdotes, relatable case studies or even a clever metaphor can make your speech unforgettable. 

Storytelling is your superpower — it not only humanizes your message but also creates emotional anchors for your audience. When you share a story about overcoming adversity or achieving breakthrough success, you’re not just conveying information; you’re inviting your listeners to experience those moments with you. 

It’s this shared experience that makes your message stick.

Structure for Impact

A well-organized speech is like a well-built house: it needs a strong foundation, clear rooms and a comfortable flow. I like to think in terms of a simple structure:

  • Introduction: Start with a hook to capture attention.
  • Body: Develop your main points with supporting stories and evidence.
  • Conclusion: End with a strong call-to-action that leaves your audience ready to act.

This classic structure ensures your message is coherent and your key points are reinforced. It’s like setting up a roadmap that guides your listeners smoothly from point A to point B, with no confusing detours along the way.

No word salad! No meandering! 

Keep It Brief and Memorable

Brevity is key. Get to the damn point. 

The average adult attention span these days is 8.25 seconds. Experts say the attention span of a goldfish is 9 seconds. 

The best speeches are NOT the longest. They’re the ones that stick in the minds of the audience. Be ruthless with your editing. Ask yourself: Does this sentence add value? Can this idea be stated more succinctly? Remember, every word should have a purpose, and sometimes less is more.

The Human Touch in Every Word

At the end of the day, speech writing is an art form that thrives on human connection. Technology and data can provide us with trends and insights, but they can’t replace the nuance and empathy of a well-crafted human message. 

A great speech is like a personal letter — it speaks directly to the hearts of those who hear it. It’s this human touch that differentiates an ordinary speech from one that inspires action.

How to Prepare for Your Next Speaking Engagement

As you step up to deliver your next speech, keep these principles in mind. The real magic of professional speech writing happens when you combine clarity with authenticity, and structure with heartfelt storytelling. 

Your audience isn’t just listening — they’re connecting with you. Or at least, they would like to. And when you speak like a human, you create a lasting impact that transcends the moment.
For more insights on strategic communications and storytelling for both businesses and nonprofits, keep an eye on our updates at Grand River Agency. Let’s keep the conversation going, one genuine word at a time.

Feel free to contact me directly at ke****@gr**************.org.

artificial intelligence for nonprofit marketing and fundraising

*NEW* We’re Certified in Artificial Intelligence for Nonprofit Marketing & Fundraising!

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We’ve used artificial intelligence (AI) for years now. It’s crazy how quickly time flies as the technology for doing business, managing community outreach and automating complex processes evolves with breakneck speeds. To keep up and better serve our nonprofit clients, I recently completed the Artificial Intelligence for Nonprofit Marketing & Fundraising certification from Nonprofit Tech for Good.

But this isn’t just your run-of-the-mill AI for efficient content generation (although that’s incredibly valuable to charities and for-profit businesses alike). The power of artificial intelligence allows us now to manage and optimize the entire nonprofit fundraising process.

What does that mean? If used properly, AI can use predictive analytics to:

  • Personalize donor communications
  • Forecast giving trends
  • Segment donor lists on virtually any criteria 
  • Optimize and automate data collection and workflows
  • & Much more!

All of this based on demonstrated actions, preferred media, personal interests, and causes and programs close to their hearts.

What this Certification in AI for Nonprofit Marketing & Fundraising Means to You 

With this certification, we can now serve nonprofits anywhere with the tools to improve fundraising efficiency and outcomes. It’s still vital to invest in case for support development, grant writing, public relations and digital marketing. But this certification in AI for Nonprofit Marketing & Fundraising allows us to augment those traditional fundraising activities. Grand River Agency is now at the forefront of a rapidly evolving digital fundraising landscape. 

We’re prepared to equip nonprofits – anywhere and everywhere – with cutting-edge AI strategies to increase donor engagement and revenue.

Grand River Agency has served nonprofit clients around the globe. We’re also particularly excited to focus more on charities in our hometowns here in rural Western New York, where nonprofit organizations often lag behind technology advancements. 

Artificial Intelligence: A New Technological Era for Nonprofit Fundraising

Early adoption of artificial intelligence is key to securing sustainable nonprofit revenue streams. Many small-budget nonprofits in Western New York and beyond have yet to harness AI’s full potential beyond simple applications like generating social media posts and thank-you emails.

Small nonprofits that embrace AI-powered donor intelligence and predictive analytics will significantly outperform those that don’t. Yes, there’s a cost to the most effective brands of AI software – just like there’s a cost associated with any step toward progress. You’re aiming for ROI, so why not use the data-backed approaches at your disposal?

Fundraising Artificial Intelligence: More Than Just a Buzzword

Many nonprofits are hesitant to invest in AI fundraising due to cost concerns or skepticism about its effectiveness. Recent industry insights suggest early adopters will reap the most benefits. According to the 2025 Fundraising Outlook Report, the number of nonprofits using AI to personalize donor outreach grew from 4% in 2023 to 6% in 2024. Projections say 43% of nonprofits will adopt AI for this task in the coming years.

Predictive AI uses machine learning (ML) to analyze donor behavior and forecast giving trends. Needless to say, it’s transforming how nonprofits tailor their community outreach strategies. Rather than using a one-size-fits-all donation form, AI-driven platforms can customize donation appeals based on a donor’s past giving history, content engagement, demographics and even preferred payment method.

Don’t believe me? Let the numbers tell the story.

Key AI fundraising platforms leading this transformation include:

  • Classy (by GoFundMe) – Reports an 11% increase in donation revenue for nonprofits using smart fundraising technology.
  • Fundraise Up – Uses behavioral AI to optimize donation forms, resulting in a 10-15% revenue boost and more than doubling new donor conversions.
  • MAZON – Uses predictive analytics to segment donors, helping nonprofits retain donors and increase print appeal revenue by 23% while sending 10% fewer mailers.

And that barely scratches the surface of what’s out there for AI in nonprofit marketing and fundraising – and what’s soon to come!

The Data is Clear: AI Improves Nonprofit Fundraising Outcomes

Not convinced? Let’s chew over some more numbers:

  • 43% of donors say AI use would have a positive or neutral impact on their giving.
  • The more generous the donor, the more supportive they are of AI-driven fundraising (30% of major gift donors, 19% of medium-sized donors and 13% of small donors).
  • Mobile donors are twice as likely to upgrade a one-time gift to a monthly gift than desktop users.

When it comes to optimizing, the power of artificial intelligence to analyze data and recommend action improves chances for fundraising success. For instance, it’s helpful to respond to the fact that first-time donors in New York give 23% more than those in Nebraska. AI identifies these trends and optimizes fundraising efforts accordingly.

AI gives us the ability to personalize fundraising efforts in ways that were unimaginable just a few years ago.

AI Still Needs the Human Touch

Despite AI’s growing capabilities, it still needs a helping hand from humans who are capable of feeling, nuance and critical thinking. We’ve believed that from the beginning – whether using generative AI to create infographics or predictive AI to optimize a donor database. 

Artificial intelligence can’t replace the strategy, storytelling and emotional intelligence required for successful fundraising campaigns. That’s where we come in. Grand River Agency pledges to help nonprofits navigate the world of AI-driven fundraising, ensuring our clients choose the right platforms, leverage predictive analytics effectively, and maintain a balance between automation and human connection.

We’ll provide nonprofits with AI-powered tools, but more importantly we’ll provide expertise in using them ethically, effectively and strategically. At the end of the day, AI is just another tool in your strategic communications toolbelt. It’s up to us to use it wisely to build stronger donor relationships and drive real impact.

Grand River Agency Earns AI for Nonprofit Marketing & Fundraising Certification.

For nonprofits anywhere struggling to keep up with fundraising demands, the future is clear: AI will define the next era of nonprofit success. Organizations that act now will be better positioned to attract, retain and grow their donor base.

Ready to use our expertise to your advantage? Email me at ke****@gr**************.org. 

About Grand River Agency

Grand River Agency is a Western New York-based nonprofit marketing and fundraising firm specializing in AI-powered fundraising strategies, donor engagement and nonprofit growth solutions. Founded by award-winning journalist Kelsey Boudin, Grand River Agency is committed to helping nonprofits embrace modern technology to achieve their missions.

personalized donor outreach

9 Nonprofit Strategies for Using AI to Improve Personalized Donor Outreach

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Donor relationships are the lifeblood of every nonprofit fundraising campaign. Today, artificial intelligence allows nonprofit executives, fund developers and grant writers to generate personalized donor outreach and communications on a MASSIVE scale! 

As a discerning nonprofit leader, you know donor communications go far beyond simply asking for donations. You must cultivate and nurture relationships. You must build trust. You must express and prove community impact. You must help prospective donors envision the positive results of financial contributions toward missions they care about – and then demonstrate those results after the donation has been made. 

Nonprofits that successfully use personalized donor outreach have a leg up in the fundraising game. AI technology today provides so much firepower to these efforts – and it’s gaining in accuracy and effectiveness with each passing day!

Artificial Intelligence for Nonprofit Fundraising & Personalized Donor Outreach 

Rewind to just 5 years ago. Many nonprofit leaders may have had internal donor tracking systems chronicling facts, figures and trends about donors – major gift donors and average givers alike. As much as we could infer from data, fundraising challenges remained. Smaller nonprofits especially struggled with driving meaningful engagement, compelling donors and securing repeat donations.

AI for personalized donor outreach:

  • Eliminates guesswork
  • Crafts donor communications quickly
  • Speaks specifically to funder preferences   

Here at Grand River Agency, we’re proud to announce that we are now certified in Artificial Intelligence for Nonprofit Marketing & Fundraising from Nonprofit Tech for Good. Full disclosure, we’ve used AI for years to assist some of our clients’ strategic communications, but we’ve also found that it still requires the human touch.  

This certification enables us to bring cutting-edge strategies to the table while maintaining the human touch that’s critical to successful personalized donor outreach. Let’s explore how AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini and Claude can help nonprofits write messages that move the needle for donors and nurture lasting relationships.

Why Personalization Matters in Donor Communications & Outreach

Imagine receiving an email that addresses you by name, references your previous contributions and outlines how your support has made a difference. (OK, so that’s not hard to imagine. Email personalization has existed for years. But it’s astonishing how many nonprofits don’t even manage that base level of engagement.) So compare that to a generic “Dear Donor” email that could have been sent to thousands of others. 

Which one feels more engaging? That’s a silly question, and we both already know the answer. Unfortunately, a majority of nonprofits are getting marketing and outreach wrong!

Personalization is no longer optional — it’s an expectation. A volunteer for one of our nonprofit clients donated to our $1 Million Fundraising Campaign and expected a personalized, hand-written thank you letter.  

Studies show that personalized messages drive higher open rates, click-through rates and donor retention. AI makes it possible to scale this personalization without requiring hours of manual effort, enabling nonprofits to reach more people with tailored, impactful messages.

How AI Superpowers Personalized Donor Outreach

AI tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot are revolutionizing personalized donor outreach by enabling nonprofits to craft thoughtful and highly customized messages in minutes. Here’s how:

1. Generating Personalized Content at Scale

AI can analyze donor data — such as donation history, interests and demographics — and create messages that speak directly to each individual. For example, you can use AI platforms to generate email templates that address specific causes a donor has supported or milestones they’ve helped your community mission to achieve.

2. Emotionally Engaging Messaging

Crafting nonprofit communications that evoke emotion is an art, and AI can assist by generating content that emphasizes the human stories behind your nonprofit’s mission. Artificial intelligence can help write stories of individuals or communities positively impacted by donations, creating a strong emotional connection with donors.

3. Testing & Optimizing Messaging

AI tools allow nonprofits to A/B test different variations of outreach messages to see which ones resonate most with their audience. Whether it’s trying out different subject lines, writing tones or call-to-action phrases, AI provides data-driven insights to continually refine your approach.

4. Real-Time Adaptability

AI can adapt messaging based on donor behavior in real time. If a donor engages with a specific piece of content, AI can help craft a follow-up message tailored to their interest, fostering deeper engagement.

Strategies for Writing Compelling Messages with Artificial Intelligence

While AI provides powerful tools, it’s essential for nonprofits to approach donor outreach with a professional touch to ensure authenticity and emotional resonance. Here are some strategies to effectively leverage AI for crafting donor messages:

5. Define Clear Objectives

Before using AI, clarify the purpose of your message. Are you thanking donors, providing updates on their impact or requesting additional support? A clear objective will guide the AI in generating focused and relevant content.

6. Combine AI with Human Expertise

While AI can draft compelling messages, human oversight ensures the tone and content align with your nonprofit’s voice and values. AI-generated messages should always be reviewed and refined to maintain accuracy and human authenticity.

7. Incorporate Donor Data Thoughtfully

AI can analyze donor data to personalize messages, but it’s crucial to strike a balance. Overusing personal details can seem intrusive, so focus on meaningful data points and insights like referencing specific campaigns or causes a donor has supported.

8. Use Storytelling to Build Connections

AI can help write emotionally compelling stories that highlight the impact of donor contributions. By weaving in real-life examples and testimonials, your messages can create a powerful narrative that inspires further support.

9. Maintain Transparency & Trust

Transparency is key to building donor trust. Use AI to generate clear and concise updates on how contributions are being used and the outcomes achieved. This reinforces your nonprofit’s credibility and encourages continued engagement.

Why a Professional Touch Matters in Personalized Donor Outreach

While artificial intelligence is a powerful tool, it’s not a substitute for the human element. Anyone can access AI these days, but it still takes an experienced hand to guide it toward ideal messaging. Grand River Agency specializes in blending the efficiency of AI with the nuance of professional nonprofit branding expertise. Our certification in Artificial Intelligence for Nonprofit Marketing & Fundraising equips us to help nonprofits leverage these tools effectively while preserving the heartfelt connection that drives donor loyalty.

AI can handle the heavy lifting of data analysis and content generation. But the true magic happens when a professional refines and personalizes the message not just to specific audiences – but specific people. By combining AI’s capabilities with our deep understanding of nonprofit audiences, we ensure that every outreach effort feels genuine, impactful and mission aligned.

Contact me today at ke****@gr**************.org to learn more.

business podcast content ideas

How to Come Up With Awesome Business Podcast Content Ideas

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A business podcast can play a key role in your organization’s evolving digital marketing strategy. But how do you keep a volume of business podcast content ideas flowing to ensure it entices the target audiences you aim to help?  

Podcasting as a thought leadership tool is so ripe for all the things digital consumers are looking for – especially if you’re in the B2B realm aiming to attract busy professionals. So let’s leverage that! 

Hopefully, you’ve developed an overarching strategy that’ll guide your podcast direction moving forward. If so, now it’s time to develop that further into actual business podcast content. 

In this blog, we’ll explore various techniques and strategies to spark inspiration for your podcast, empowering you to consistently deliver high-quality episodes that resonate with your audience.

Unlocking Creativity: 4 Strategies for Generating Business Podcast Content Ideas

The good news is there are so many great business podcast content ideas and show formats out there. You can: 

  • Host guest experts from your field
  • Discuss the benefits of your latest product with your product engineer
  • Interview satisfied customers/clients
  • Provide tips & tricks to solve pain points
  • Give insider knowledge about industry trends  

What luck, in content marketing, anything that can be blogged about, posted on social media, turned into an infographic, etc., can be talked about. If it can be talked about, it can be turned into a great podcast content idea.

The format options are also wide-ranging – from one-on-one interviews to panel discussions to solo shows. (Josh Hatcher, our VP of Client Success, sometimes likes to sit in his car and turn his thoughts into awesome podcasts for our business!)

In general, here are four strategies to get your gears turning about specific business podcast content ideas.

1. Identify & Address Audience Problems

This one’s always key for me. Any piece of content marketing should strive to solve a problem or pain point of your target audience. Sure, there’s wiggle room for entertainment and enlightenment, but the most engaging business podcasts keep people coming back for one simple reason: THEY ARE HELPFUL!

At the core of every successful business podcast is a deep understanding of the audience’s needs, challenges and aspirations.

(I know, you’ve been told “know your audience” more times than you can shake a stick at.) But getting to the crux of their issues takes more than educated guessing. Listen to your audience and prospective listeners/viewers. Engage them through:

  • Surveys (offer incentives for participation)
  • Feedback forms
  • Social media interactions
  • Live Q&A sessions or virtual events
  • Interactive polls or quizzes on your podcast’s website or social media channels
  • Listener-generated content submissions (questions, stories or testimonials)
  • Attend industry events, conferences, or meetups to engage listeners face-to-face

Uncovering pain points and audience questions in these ways could potentially inspire hundreds of business podcast episode topics you had never considered. Each problem is a solution waiting to be discussed. Craft episodes that offer practical solutions, actionable insights and meaningful conversations that resonate with your listeners and establish your podcast as a thought leader in your industry.

2. Journal Techniques for Inspiration

Take some time to jot down your thoughts and feelings. Seriously.

Journaling isn’t just some grade-school activity to learn personal reflection. In a professional sense, it’s also a powerful tool for generating content ideas for your business podcast. By setting aside time to jot down ideas, experiences and observations, you can uncover a wealth of potential topics and themes to explore.

These thoughts don’t have to be logical or coherent. Whether you prefer traditional pen and paper or digital note-taking tools like Google Keep, even a random train of thought can get you thinking in the right direction.

3. Collaborate with Other Business Podcasts

Collaboration holds the key to unlocking fresh perspectives and new audience insights – while also greatly amplifying your message and reach. Partnering with fellow professionals in your niche offers a unique opportunity to generate compelling content ideas.

Identify podcasters or influencers whose content aligns with yours and resonates with a similar audience. Pitch a guest spot on your podcast – or vice versa. Your two organizations may form a natural connection in a continuum of services, from one step in a process to another. 

Feeling bold? Reach out to a competitor and have a friendly debate!

Discuss shared interests, audience demographics and the unique perspectives each party brings to the table. Brainstorming sessions can spark creativity and generate a wealth of business podcast inspiration.

4. Competitor Analysis

There’s much to learn by looking at what others are doing. You can stay ahead of trends to keep your content fresh and relevant. Online forums, discussion groups and subreddit communities pertaining to your podcast’s subject matter are great places to mine for information. Use digital analytics tools to analyze listener/viewer demographics and behavior.

And if you’re looking at competitors, you stand a better chance of not missing a particular podcast discussion or format that really seems to resonate.

Remember my buddy Josh from earlier? He jokingly calls this “spycraft.” I just call it smart market research. Ethically gather insights – engagement strategies, emerging topics, etc. – from competitors and other industry authorities. Note exciting new opportunities for innovation! 

Borrow ideas. Give credit where it’s due, of course. Ensure your podcast stands out while staying true to your brand.

Ready to Come Up with Some Great Business Podcast Content Ideas? We Can Help!

As business decision-makers, you understand the importance of engaging your audience with valuable and relevant content. First, you must strategize and create it, and then you must launch and promote it to the world!

Remember, creativity knows no bounds – so let your imagination soar as you craft compelling business podcast content that sets yours apart in the digital landscape.

In the bustling world of podcasting, competition for listeners’ and viewers’ attention is fierce. The ability to generate fresh and compelling content ideas is paramount. That can be a lot even for well-established marketing teams – let alone for small businesses and nonprofits. If you need help, contact us here.

business podcast promotion using short-form video

Business Podcast Promotion: Unleashing the Potential of Short-Form Video

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You’ve strategized and launched your business podcast. Congratulations! Now, how are you going to get eyes and ears on it – especially in a world that’s overflowing with multimedia content? If you’re video recording your podcast, as well, short-form video is the common denominator for promotion across a variety of platforms.

What must your business podcast up aga? Well, there are 3.2 million active podcasts, which last year published over 30 million episodes in at least 100 different languages. 

That’s a lot. The good news is, it’s not nearly as competitive as producing SEO blogs for your business against 3 BILLION blog posts published each year globally. 

So let’s promote your business podcast using short-form video to do what it does best: grab attention on social media.

Capturing Attention with Short-Form Video to Promote Your Business Podcast

By now, you know how hard it is to capture shrinking attention spans. That’s the double-edged sword of digital media. The easier it becomes to access and absorb content, the less mental capacity people subconsciously devote to processing it. 

Podcasters need to find innovative ways to stand out in the digital realm. Enter short-form video content – a dynamic tool that holds immense potential for business podcast promotion and engaging with listeners. 

Here we’ll explore how harnessing the power of short-form video can augment your business podcast promotion strategy and captivate audiences – where they live on social media. Create super-quick snippets that appeal to the senses and tease the subject matter in just seconds. 

Social Media LOVES Short-Form Video

Short-form video content is the literal definition of today’s most popular social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts. While these (especially TikTok) emerged as places for silly content and dance videos, businesses quickly caught on that they could leverage the market, too.

A quick video snippet can tell a potential viewer everything they need to know about an upcoming episode or your podcast in general. People can learn a heck of a lot in a 7-second clip – enough to make a decision about consuming your content. By condensing key themes, topics and highlights from podcast episodes into bite-sized snippets, business podcasters deliver their message quickly and effectively, making it easier for viewers to consume and share across social media platforms.

Crafting Compelling Teasers & Trailers

Short-form video content serves as the perfect teaser or trailer for podcast episodes, generating anticipation and excitement among listeners and viewers. Share intriguing snippets of conversations, thought-provoking insights or captivating guest interviews to entice your audience to tune in for more.

(Helpful hint: Just because it’s a business podcast doesn’t mean it has to be all serious. In producing and promoting podcasts for clients, we’ve found that humor draws people in, too.) 

These teasers not only engage existing listeners and viewers, but also attract new ones who are intrigued by just a capsule glimpse at the podcast’s content.

Editing with AI for Maximum Impact

Whether you’re an organizational decision-maker or a rank-and-file member of the marketing team, you’re busy. Too busy. Sometimes the thought of spending MORE time on ANOTHER marketing task makes it easy to avoid business podcasting altogether.

Rest assured, there are so many tools to make your life easier. Utilizing AI-powered editing tools streamlines the process of breaking down podcast episodes into short-form video content. By transcribing podcast episodes and then editing the transcripts into concise video clips, business podcasters can create engaging snippets that grab viewers’ attention from the outset. 

It’s essential to ensure that each clip can stand on its own and make sense outside of the context of the full episode, increasing its effectiveness in driving engagement.

Artificial intelligence is our powerful friend in the digital marketing world, allowing us to efficiently compile volumes of content. But as we always say, AI is just a tool and still requires the human touch to make your work sing. 

Diversifying Content for a Fresh Look

In addition to sharing clips from podcast episodes, podcasters should also create platform-specific short-form videos tailored to each social media platform’s unique audience and format. Don’t fall into the pattern of crafting the “same old” short-form video clips for business podcast promotion. 

They’ll become repetitive and boring. They’ll get tuned out and avoided. Or worse, people will unfollow your podcast and social media platforms.  

So keep it interesting and snappy! Get creative. Show them something a little different each time around:

  • Share behind-the-scenes content
  • Respond to comments with additional video content
  • Post funny outtakes 
  • Create interesting podcast promotions & intros from new locations

Crafting fun, humanizing videos can increase engagement and nurture a sense of connection with the audience. By diversifying content, business podcasters can maximize their reach and impact across different platforms. Show them you’re not just a resource for insights, but actual people aiming to help them solve their problems.

Business Podcast Promotion with Short-Form Video: Engage Your Audience in Exciting Ways

Short-form video content presents a tremendous opportunity for podcasters to improve promotional efforts and engage with your audience in new and exciting ways. By leveraging the power of short-form video, podcasters can create compelling teasers, trailers and platform-specific content that captivates viewers and listeners. 

Drive awareness for your business podcast as part of a well-rounded digital marketing strategy. Show them your human side and your commitment to providing content that helps and engages them how they prefer to be engaged – whether that’s during their morning workout or tuning in for a brief lunch break session.

With creativity, strategy and the right tools, you can harness the full potential of short-form video podcast promotion to show your brand in a new light. 

Of course, there’s no shame in asking for help. Grand River Agency produces and promotes podcasts for business clients every day. Email Josh Hatcher, our VP of Client Success, at jo**@gr**************.org to have a friendly chat!

podcast content creation

4 Basic Steps to Mastering Business Podcast Content Creation

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The potential for digital content creation is virtually limitless these days. As a smart business leader, you’re likely proud you’ve invested in website development and social media marketing. But what MORE could you do to move the needle? How about trying some podcast content creation? 

Podcasts have emerged as a powerful medium for businesses and organizations to connect with their audiences on a deeper level. But, as you know, it’s far from a new technology. The very first podcast was launched in 2003 – back before it was even called a podcast.

Two decades later, an ocean of podcasts dominates nearly every market and subject area imaginable. It’s not just people talking about pop culture, self-improvement tips and true-crime documentaries. Businesses and other organizations can use podcast content creation as another avenue for industry thought leadership.

(Check out our podcast at StratComm.Live to see how we tackle thought leadership here at Grand River Agency.)

(Breaking News: StratComm.Live Podcast Debuts at No. 8 on Apple Podcast in the US.)

Tips & Tricks for Great Podcast Content Creation 

Crafting compelling podcast episodes is not just about hitting the record button and hoping for the best. A great business podcast requires careful planning, creativity and consistency. As with any other part of your expert digital marketing strategy, you must have a good grasp of your target audience:

  • Demographics: Characteristics such as age, gender, location, occupation, income level and education to tailor content that resonates.
  • Interests & Preferences: What topics are they passionate about? What types of content do they enjoy consuming? How do they prefer to be engaged to keep them coming back for more?
  • Pain Points & Challenges: Identify the problems that your audience faces in their personal or professional lives. The best business podcasts provide valuable insights, solutions and practical tips.
  • Listening Habits & Preferences: How does your target audience consume podcasts? Do they prefer short episodes or longer, in-depth discussions? Are they more likely to listen during their commute, while exercising or during downtime? Tailor your podcast format and delivery to maximize engagement.
  • Communication Style: Are they looking for authoritative, professional content? Or do they prefer a more laid-back, conversational and relatable approach? 

Knowing these, you can begin strategizing podcast content creation. 

Building the Ultimate Podcast for Your Business or Organization

Let’s start generating some ideas and streamlining your workflow to produce your business podcast with maximum efficiency. Here are four easy steps to follow:

1. Lay the Foundation for Your Content Strategy

Before diving into podcast content creation, it’s essential to establish a clear content strategy. You wouldn’t trudge forward with creating blog content or social media posts without first knowing what you’re doing, right? Launching a successful podcast follows the same playbook. 

Define your target audience, identify key themes or topics that align with your brand or organization, and determine the overall tone and style of your podcast. This foundation will guide your content creation process and ensure that each episode serves a purpose in achieving your audience engagement goals.

2. Generate Fresh Content Ideas

Generating fresh and engaging content ideas is crucial for keeping your audience hooked – and perhaps even turning them into brand ambassadors. Explore different techniques to spark inspiration, such as brainstorming sessions, audience feedback and trend analysis. 

Utilize tools like journaling and even “spycraft” to identify emerging trends and topics relevant to your audience’s interests. By addressing your audience’s problems and providing valuable solutions, you can create episodes that help them to choose you over others during their morning jog or lunch break.

3. Planning Your Content Calendar

Feeling good about the topics you brainstormed? Great! Let’s start putting them into an easy-to-follow schedule. 

Consistency is key in the world of podcasting. To avoid the common pitfall of running out of things to talk about and losing momentum, create a podcast content calendar. This calendar will help you stay organized and plan out your episodes in advance. 

Consider establishing themes or series to provide structure to your content and maintain audience interest over time. Balance variety and consistency in your content calendar to keep your audience engaged while ensuring a steady flow of new episodes.

4. Streamlining Your Workflow

Efficiency is crucial for podcasters, especially when juggling multiple responsibilities. (If you’re running a small business or nonprofit organization, podcasting is most certainly not the ONLY thing on your plate.) Adopt bulk production strategies to streamline your workflow and maximize productivity. 

The “Master Calendar” approach involves outlining talking points, scheduling interviews, and producing content in batches. By batching similar tasks together, you can minimize interruptions and focus your energy on creating high-quality content. 

Additionally, leverage automation tools and templates to streamline repetitive tasks and free up time to invest in the creativity of your business podcast.

Business Podcast Tips: Professional Quality Podcast Content Creation is Easier Than You Think

Launching a compelling podcast for your business or organization requires careful planning, creativity and consistency. With a clear roadmap, professional quality podcast content creation is easier to accomplish than you might think.

We do it every day here at Grand River Agency, for ourselves and for client businesses and nonprofits who aim to reach new audiences. Combined with other elements of 21st-century marketing – like search engine optimization and targeted social media ads – podcasting can be an element of your digital strategy that people actually WANT to hear and see.

By establishing a clear content strategy, generating fresh ideas, planning your content calendar, and streamlining your workflow, you can create episodes that captivate your audience and drive engagement. If you follow these basics, podcasting can help you build brand awareness, establish thought leadership and foster meaningful connections.

Of course, there’s no shame in asking for help from the experts. Contact Josh Hatcher, our VP of Client Success, at jo**@gr**************.org. 

public relations and media outreach

Public Relations: Big Media Splash as Grand River Agency Launches Nonprofit Fundraiser   

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It’s wonderful when things go exactly as planned. Even better when they exceed expectations. By now you’ve likely heard about Grand River Agency launching a $1 Million Fundraising Campaign for one of its nonprofit clients, the Olean Food Pantry. After months of planning and building communications capacity, the announcement required a public relations push to create a BIG MEDIA SPLASH.

And that’s exactly what happened! Simply enough, we wrote and submitted a press release announcing the fundraising campaign – leveraging our decades of media experience and extensive industry contacts. What made that initial press release stand out above thousands of others submitted to local, regional and national media outlets that day?

Expert storytelling, of course.

Within 12 hours, our expert media relations team had orchestrated the PR splash we desired, capturing the attention of local, regional and even national media outlets. 

Every. Single. Media. Outlet. Targeted. What a fantastic kickoff generating widespread buzz and support for Olean Food Pantry’s crucial mission!

BIG Public Relations Campaign Boosts Nonprofit Fundraising Campaign

Here’s how we did it.

Setting the Stage for Success

At Grand River Agency, we understand the power of nonprofit storytelling and the importance of leveraging media relations to amplify our clients’ messages. Having already improved Olean Food Pantry’s digital presence and crafted a compelling case for support document, the stage was set for community engagement.

The launch of the Olean Food Pantry’s $1 Million Fundraising Campaign offered an awesome opportunity to build a narrative around a BIG fundraising goal in a small community. That’s news in itself! Ambitious plans aren’t often hatched here in the impoverished northernmost tip of Appalachia. 

Crafting a Compelling Narrative

The initial press release justified a breakdown of major gifts, individual donations, corporate donations and grants required to meet fundraising goals. It weaved an emotional narrative around evidence of local food insecurity as told by food pantry administrators and volunteers, who routinely see record numbers on distribution days. Told correctly, the story needed no client testimonial to still paint a picture of severe struggle.

This compelling narrative highlighted the urgency of the Olean Food Pantry’s mission and the impact of fundraising efforts, expressing exactly how far every dollar donated can go. We emphasized the staggering rise in food pantry usage in recent years and the critical need for community support to address this pressing issue.

Making Waves in All Levels of Media

With our narrative in hand, we embarked on a strategic media outreach campaign, targeting a diverse array of media outlets to maximize our reach. A strong PR strategy doesn’t emphasize just one – or even a handful of media contacts – but rather a comprehensive list of journalists. 

It’s not enough to just send a PR pitch to the local paper and call it good.

At Grand River Agency, our proprietary list of media contacts include rank-and-file journalists, editors, producers and other decision-makers from local newspapers and radio to regional TV powerhouses and national aggregate sites. In targeting the hierarchy, we stand a greater chance at influencing coverage with reporters looking for “a scoop” that day and newsroom leaders who direct news production.

Within hours of publicly announcing the campaign, our press releases and pitches had captured the attention of news media outlets including:

Additionally, the PR secured a lead story that evening on Buffalo’s NPR station, further extending the campaign’s reach beyond local eyes and ears. Each publication either ran the press release in its entirety or expanded upon food insecurity in Western New York and the importance of community support.

Building Buzz & Momentum

Initial media coverage generated by Grand River Agency’s public relations efforts helped to build buzz and momentum around the Olean Food Pantry’s $1 Million Fundraising Campaign. It quickly drove increased visibility and support for their cause, laying a foundation for future press releases, op-ed pieces and other media outreach to be received favorably. 

The community dialog is now launched with Olean Food Pantry strategically positioned as a thought leader in the War on Hunger. It further solidified the organization’s brand reputation as a trusted and impactful charity.

Expert Public Relations for Nonprofit Clients at Grand River Agency

At Grand River Agency, we’re passionate about using our media relations prowess to benefit nonprofit clients and promote fundraising initiatives that make a difference. Expert public relations are a powerful tool to supplement a well-rounded professional communications strategy.

We’re committed to helping our clients achieve their goals through strategic storytelling and media outreach. OFP’s fundraiser is just one case study on what we can do for your organization. Whether you’re launching a new initiative, raising awareness about an important cause, or seeking to engage the community in your mission, Grand River Agency is here to help. 

Contact us here and let’s get to know each other.

Olean Food Pantry million dollar fundraising campaign

Grand River Agency Builds $1 Million Fundraising Campaign for Nonprofit Client

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Let’s take a behind-the-scenes look at the strategic maneuvers powering a $1 Million Fundraising Campaign for one of Grand River Agency’s nonprofit fundraising clients. 

Raising large sums of money for great missions of charity is one of our hallmark services. But, contrary to popular practice in the charity industry, we’re not spending all day churning out grant proposals and praying they stick. To be sure, grant writing is part of the strategy, but we prefer a well-rounded approach that diversifies funding sources and leverages multiple channels for BIG and small wins.

Here’s how we’re doing it. 

Olean Food Pantry’s $1 Million Fundraising Campaign Managed By Grand River Agency

The Olean Food Pantry’s groundbreaking $1 million fundraising campaign, masterminded by Grand River Agency, actually began MONTHS before the formal announcement. In my initial consultation with their Board of Directors, my first question was this: “What do you think of your organization’s digital presence?” 

Their answer? Crickets. 

Obviously, that was the place to start. Nonprofit storytelling these days takes place almost entirely in the digital realm, so why not supercharge the mechanisms for those communications? Activities included:

  • Building a new website
  • Creating new & optimizing current social media accounts
  • Writing blogs for SEO
  • Designing graphics & short-form videos for cross-channel promotion

The next question during that initial discussion was, “Who’s your nonprofit’s target audience?” Naturally, one Board member answered, “The people we serve.” To which I responded, “Absolutely not.”

And here’s why.

The Importance of a Donor-Centric Nonprofit Communications Strategy

The people your charity serves DON’T have money. Donors, funders, grantors and philanthropists are every nonprofit’s target audience.  

That’s not to say your communications strategies mustn’t address and help the people and causes you serve. They absolutely do! Consider it this way: your communications must appeal to donors and funders BY showcasing the superheroic capacity to influence people, whether it’s your nonprofit’s website, social media presence or media relations. 

With the proper mechanisms in place, you can then focus on communicating directly with the people and organizations with the financial power to bankroll your nonprofit mission.  

Writing & Designing a Strong Nonprofit Case for Support

Also known as a case statement, the nonprofit case for support is a comprehensive document that details the who, what, when, where, why and how of your charity’s mission. It’s basically a blanket proposal.

Expertly written and designed, it can be sent in its entirety to BIG MONEY funders or used to copy-and-paste (or at least inform) all future grant proposals, marketing materials and media outreach. Why reinvent the wheel each time you craft new communications?

For the Olean Food Pantry’s $1 Million Fundraising Campaign, we developed and designed a case for support in e-book/magazine format. It clearly and compellingly expresses:

  • Organizational history
  • Mission & vision
  • Community need
  • Current programs & demonstrated impact
  • Future vision
  • Financial realities
  • Justification & plans for funding
  • Decision-makers, staff & volunteers

Just as importantly, it details a well-rounded fundraising strategy noting exactly what’s expected of supporters, grant funders and big money donors to make it work.

Diversifying Revenue Sources in a Strong Nonprofit Fundraising Campaign

So many nonprofits launch fundraising strategies emphasizing just one main activity – whether it be grant writing (often before they’ve built the capacity to contend for competitive grants) or some annual fundraising gala (which often costs more to host than it brings in).

What’s the best way to eat a whale? One bite at a time! So for the OFP $1 Million Fundraising Campaign, Grand River Agency broke down fundraising tactics into four easy revenue streams. 

Grant Writing: Securing $450,000 in Funding

Don’t get us wrong. Grant writing is great – as PART of a well-rounded fundraising campaign. (And that’s only if your organization is grant-ready.) Olean Food Pantry is grant-ready, having already demonstrated success in securing local and regional grants through the years. We’re now aiming to secure a whopping $450,000 in grant funding by researching applicable funding opportunities on a national scale and submitting a volume of proposals to various foundations, charitable trusts and government resources.

Major Gift Donor Cultivation: Unlocking $450,000 in Major Gifts

The next big chunk of the pie requires cultivating major gift donors. Through personalized outreach, relationship-building and targeted stewardship of a list of prospective millionaire donors, we will secure $450,000 in major gifts from philanthropists, community leaders and other high-net-worth individuals with specific interest in the War on Hunger. 

Corporate Giving: Mobilizing $50,000 from Business Leaders

Corporate giving is yet another fundraising avenue we’re mobilizing for Olean Food Pantry. By engaging local businesses and corporations, we’re eyeing a smaller sum of $50,000 in donations. We recognize the area’s business climate makes money tight – and such businesses are already doing their part to combat food insecurity via employment.

By asking businesses for a smaller total contribution, we’re forging strategic partnerships that make a buzz and raise community awareness.   

Individual Donors: Rallying Community Support

Last, but certainly not least, individual donors are playing a crucial role in raising the final $50,000 to support the Olean Food Pantry’s $1 Million Fundraising Campaign. By improving the organization’s digital presence (mentioned earlier), we can now engage the community in ways never before possible.

In general, community members may have comparatively limited means. But compelling smaller contributions – a few dollars here and there add up quickly – empowers individuals to help their family, friends and neighbors.

A Holistic Approach to Fundraising Guides OFP’s $1 Million Fundraising Campaign

The Olean Food Pantry’s $1 million fundraising campaign is a testament to the power of strategic communications – a range of tactics building upon each other to create a POWERHOUSE nonprofit fundraising strategy. But before we could even think about the fundraising aspect, we had to shore up and create numerous avenues for communications. 

Grand River Agency will achieve this ambitious fundraising goal and make a tangible difference for a nonprofit client in the Olean community.

Join Us in Making a Difference in YOUR Community

Ready to harness the power of strategic communications and fundraising to drive meaningful change in your community? We’re here to help your organization unlock your fundraising potential and make a lasting impact.

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