Posts in category: Podcast

Kailee Scales, the dynamic CEO of Pencils of Promise (PoP), has carved a distinctive path in nonprofit fundraising and leadership. Raised in Queens, New York, Kailee fostered a passion for music alongside a desire for global change. Her commitment to social transformation was ignited during a Congressional campaign in Brooklyn, marking the start of her journey in leadership.

Kailee’s profound impact began as an entry-level fundraiser for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), where her knack for galvanizing support led to record-breaking funds. Her role at PoP now involves breaking down educational barriers for children worldwide.

Beyond PoP, she founded Think Free Global Strategies to offer equity solutions for organizations, extending her influence to 17 countries. From a music enthusiast to a global change catalyst, Kailee’s journey is a masterclass for those in the nonprofit sector. 

Embarking on a path of social change from an early age in Queens, New York, Kailee Scales has emerged as an emblem of transformative leadership in the nonprofit sector. As the CEO of Pencils of Promise (PoP) and founder of Think Free Global Strategies, her approach offers invaluable insights for nonprofit leaders. Here, we distill key elements of Kailee’s philosophy that can guide your journey toward more impactful leadership.

Unleash the Power of Fundraising

Kailee views fundraising as more than a means to an end; she sees it as a force for societal transformation. Adopt her confidence in articulating the potential impact of donations. This perspective can help you connect with donors on a deeper level, driving greater engagement and commitment.

It’s crucial to transcend the conventional ‘scarcity mindset’ that often pervades the nonprofit sector. Instead, embrace Kailee’s ‘abundance mindset,’ viewing resources as plentiful and fundraisers as advocates for a fair share. This paradigm shift can create a more positive, expansive perspective that ultimately attracts more funding.

Make Storytelling Your Secret Weapon

Kailee emphasizes the human element in fundraising, underscoring the critical role of storytelling. This approach fosters a connection between donors and the lives their contributions can transform. Infusing your fundraising efforts with compelling narratives will cultivate a sense of contribution among donors, amplifying your impact.

Foster Collaboration

In the nonprofit sector, collaboration is more than teamwork; it’s a cornerstone of successful leadership, as exemplified by Kailee Scales. Kailee acknowledges the need to distribute tasks effectively, recognize each team member’s strengths, and ensure everyone’s contribution is valued and recognized. To adopt her collaborative leadership style, prioritize an environment where each member feels valued, heard, and crucial to the mission. By doing so, you can cultivate inclusivity and build stronger strategies for change. This intentional shift towards collaborative leadership can drive your organization towards greater efficacy and impact.

Create a Vision for Prosperity

Kailee’s vision of a prosperous nonprofit entails three key components: a clear message, a clear intervention, and a found tribe. Implementing this vision means forming a deep connection with your supporters and communicating your mission effectively. It’s about taking your tribe on a transformative journey, using their voices for advocacy, and expanding your community of supporters.

Stay the Course: The Nonprofit Marathon

Just as Kailee likens nonprofit work to a marathon, it’s essential to understand that your organization’s journey will involve continuous growth and adaptation. Success involves:

• Regularly revisiting your communication strategies.
• Keeping your tribe engaged.
• Reminding them they are integral to your mission.

Embrace Kailee’s Transformative Journey

Kailee Scales offers an unconventional, abundantly rewarding perspective on nonprofit leadership. Embracing her insights into collaboration, storytelling, the abundance mindset, and the marathon nature of change can help you steer your organization toward prosperity. Use these guiding principles to inform your leadership style and foster a transformative, impactful, and abundant approach to your mission.

Read the podcast transcripts here.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Connect with Stephanie on Instagram
• Connect with 100 Degrees Consulting on Instagram
• Connect with Kailee on Instagram
• Understand (and maximize) your organization’s numbers with this free download.

Want more of the podcast?

• New episodes are released weekly! Find them all plus show notes and exclusive bonus content at 100degreesconsulting.com/podcast
• Leave us a review! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Let me know what you loved most about this episode!
• Subscribe to the show so you don’t miss a thing

Today, I bring you a peculiar yet insightful experience that unfolded during an unexpected rendezvous with my dentist. Yes, you read it right – the dentist! Though seemingly unrelated, my recent dental visit ended up shedding some invaluable light on the critical aspects of nonprofit donor engagement.

A Brush with Transformation 

The dentist, a place often associated with discomfort and dread, had been on my procrastination list for a while. But as life often surprises us, a chance conversation led me to book an appointment at a nearby clinic. The compelling online presence of the dental practice, the empathetic booking process, and the personalized approach toward my visit piqued my curiosity. 

As I stepped into the clinic, it became evident that the office’s spa-like ambiance was just the tip of the iceberg. From the technologically advanced facility to the non-judgmental approach of the staff, the entire experience was a refreshing break from my past dental traumas.

This led me to draw several parallels that I believe will resonate with many nonprofit leaders:

Leveraging the Power of Referrals 

Just as my conversation steered me to a new dental practice, referrals in the nonprofit world are incredibly potent. They’re not merely potential donors; they’re the validation of our efforts, indicative of the impact we make. As nonprofit leaders, we must harness this power and cultivate relationships that generate these valuable referrals.

Building a Strong Digital Footprint 

A robust online presence, as seen in the dental practice, can make or break the first impression. Websites and social media channels are the first touchpoints for potential donors. Ensuring a sleek, user-friendly online experience is as critical for nonprofits as it is for any modern dental practice.

Recognizing Donor Preferences

An empathetic approach to understanding individual preferences goes a long way in creating lasting relationships. In the same way that my dentist’s office had an empathetic questionnaire to understand my past experiences and fears, nonprofits must acknowledge donor preferences and address their pain points, making them feel seen, heard, and valued.

Crafting a Seamless Donor Journey 

Each touchpoint with the donor should make them feel part of something bigger. Are we inundating them with solicitations, or are we genuinely appreciating their contributions? Just as I felt welcomed and valued at the dentist’s, nonprofits must ensure their donors experience the same appreciation.

Creating an Exceptional Donor Experience 

The spa-like experience at the dentist’s office led me to ask, ‘What does it feel like to be a part of our nonprofit community?’ Once our donors are “inside,” how do we make them feel special? How do we show them the impact of their contribution?

Adopting a Non-Judgmental Approach 

As my dentist focused on improving my dental health without judgment, nonprofits must adopt the same approach with their donors. Are we making them feel guilty for not donating frequently or in large amounts, or are we accepting them for where they are and working with them to improve the causes they care about?

Integrating Modern Technology 

The efficient technology at the dentist’s office was impressive. Are we, as nonprofits, stuck with outdated systems, or are we utilizing modern technology to streamline our operations and provide an efficient donor experience?

Ensuring a Thoughtful Departure 

The last touchpoint at the dentist’s office was as pleasant as the first. Similarly, nonprofits need to ensure that their gratitude towards donors is expressed meaningfully and thoughtfully, encouraging a continued relationship.

The journey of a donor with your organization should mirror the transformative dental experience I had – from the initial contact to a seamless online experience, understanding preferences, creating multiple positive touchpoints, offering an exceptional insider experience, adopting a non-judgmental approach, employing efficient technology, and finally, a thoughtful departure. 

Every element is crucial in crafting an unforgettable donor experience, ultimately leading to donor retention.

So, as we navigate the complexities of donor engagement, let’s remember to take a page from our seemingly unrelated experiences. After all, a dentist’s office was the last place I thought I’d find insights into the world of nonprofits!

Read the podcast transcripts here.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Connect with Stephanie on Instagram
• Connect with 100 Degrees Consulting on Instagram
• Understand (and maximize) your organization’s numbers with this free download.

Want more of the podcast?

• New episodes are released weekly! Find them all plus show notes and exclusive bonus content at 100degreesconsulting.com/podcast
• Leave us a review! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Let me know what you loved most about this episode!
• Subscribe to the show so you don’t miss a thing

Are you a nonprofit leader feeling overwhelmed and burnt out? You’re not alone. Nonprofit organizations face many challenges, from time and financial management to creating sustained impact. But the good news is, there are practical strategies you can implement to overcome these challenges and make a lasting impact in your community. In this blog post, we’ll share insights from Rachel Bearbower on simplifying operations, managing time, building strong donor relationships, and creating sustained impact through Rachel’s “Sprouted Method”. So, grab a cup of coffee and read on to learn how you can build a stronger foundation for your nonprofit organization.

Simplification and Delegation

One of the most important strategies for nonprofit leaders is simplification. By getting clear on their mission, who they serve, what they do, and why they’re here, leaders can focus on what makes their organization unique and double down on that. This includes saying no to funding opportunities or projects that don’t align with the organization’s core mission. Furthermore, delegation and automation are crucial in saving time and increasing efficiency. Leaders should focus on what they do best and delegate the rest, even if they don’t have the budget to hire more staff. Delegation can also mean delegating to future selves or software programs that cost a small amount each month. This allows leaders to stay focused on their zone of genius and create lasting impact.

Time Management and Rest

Rachel Bearbower, founder of Small Shop Strategies, introduced several strategies for nonprofit leaders to manage their time effectively. She emphasized the importance of creating boundaries, recognizing personal energy levels, and scheduling tasks accordingly. This includes using the Eisenhower Matrix, which involves dividing tasks into four quadrants based on urgency and importance. Additionally, recognizing the importance of rest and balance is critical to avoid burnout and maintain productivity.

Building Strong Donor Relationships

Stephanie and Rachel also emphasized the importance of building strong relationships with donors. Nonprofit leaders can cultivate and nurture relationships with donors who share their values and are committed to their organization’s mission. This includes making donors feel like partners rather than just a source of funding and implementing donor management software to help keep track of donor interactions and ensure that donors are receiving personalized and timely communication.

Strategies for Creating Sustained Impact

In addition to the above strategies, Rachel’s “Sprouted Method” highlights the importance of pausing, planning, building a blueprint, bringing resources together, fueling the flame, and then harvesting and boosting impact. This method emphasizes the importance of creating daily habits that create impact over time and taking advantage of technology to save time and increase efficiency.

Implementing Technology and Automation

Rachel also emphasized the importance of implementing technology and automation to help save time and increase efficiency. Even small investments in technology can yield significant savings in time and money. This includes using software programs to automate tasks, implementing donor management software, and leveraging social media to reach a wider audience.

Nonprofit leaders can overcome the challenges they face by implementing practical strategies such as simplification, delegation, time management, financial management, building strong donor relationships, and implementing technology and automation. By prioritizing rest and balance, delegating tasks, simplifying the organization’s mission, and using technology to their advantage, nonprofit leaders can create sustained impact and build stronger foundations for their organizations. With these tools and strategies, nonprofit leaders can make a lasting impact and build a better world.

Read the podcast transcripts here.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Connect with Stephanie on Instagram
• Connect with 100 Degrees Consulting on Instagram
• Connect with Rachel on Instagram
• Understand (and maximize) your organization’s numbers with this free download.

Want more of the podcast?

• New episodes are released weekly! Find them all plus show notes and exclusive bonus content at 100degreesconsulting.com/podcast
• Leave us a review! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Let me know what you loved most about this episode!
• Subscribe to the show so you don’t miss a thing

As a nonprofit organization leader, you may feel like you have to prioritize everyone and everything else before yourself. However, investing in yourself can actually help you bring your best self to the table as a leader and ultimately increase your impact. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of investing in yourself and how it can be a game changer for you and your organization.

Why Investing in Yourself Matters

Investing in yourself can take many forms, such as hiring a coach, attending conferences and workshops, or taking online courses. By doing so, you can gain new skills and knowledge, enhance your confidence, improve your decision-making abilities, and increase your work-life balance. Plus, you’ll be happier, which will make you a better leader overall.

It may be hard to justify investing in yourself when resources are tight, but think of it as an investment in your organization’s future. If you’re more confident, productive, and prosperous, your organization will benefit too. Additionally, investing in yourself can help you build relationships with like-minded leaders, gain insights into your industry, and make connections that will help you achieve your goals.

Investing in Your Team

Investing in yourself is just the beginning, investing in your team can be just as important to achieve your goals. Providing professional development opportunities and coaching to your team can improve their performance and help them reach their full potential. This is especially important for succession planning and ensuring your organization continues to grow.

Breaking Through Limiting Beliefs

As a nonprofit organization leader, you may have limiting beliefs that are holding you back. These beliefs may include thinking that your organization cannot grow beyond a certain size, that you are not capable of managing a larger team, or that your team cannot improve beyond their current performance level. However, by investing in yourself and your team, you can break through these limiting beliefs and achieve greater success.

Overcoming Limiting Beliefs: A Story

Let me share with you a story about how I overcame my limiting beliefs. I hired a business coach who helped me realize that I had placed an invisible ceiling on my business’s growth potential. I thought that my business would never generate more than a million dollars because I did not want to manage 15 employees. However, my coach challenged me to think differently and presented me with a management structure that would allow me to grow my business beyond my initial expectations.

This story is a great example of how limiting beliefs can hold us back from achieving our goals. As a nonprofit organization leader, you may have similar limiting beliefs that are preventing your organization from growing and having a bigger impact. By investing in yourself and your team, you can break through these beliefs and achieve greater success.

Making It a Non-Negotiable

Investing in yourself and your team should be a non-negotiable part of your organization’s budget. It is essential to prioritize investing in your team’s growth and development to ensure that your organization can continue to have a positive impact on your community. The only way to take care of the people on the inside is to invest in them and help them grow.

Investing in yourself as a nonprofit organization leader is an investment in your organization’s future. By gaining new skills and knowledge, enhancing your confidence, and improving your work-life balance, you’ll be able to bring your best self to the table and make a bigger impact in your community. So take the time to invest in yourself, whether it’s through hiring a coach, attending a conference, or taking an online course. Your organization will thank you for it. Remember, investing in yourself and your team is not an extra; it is a non-negotiable.

Read the podcast transcripts here.

Links mentioned in this episode

• Connect with Stephanie on Instagram
• Connect with 100 Degrees Consulting on Instagram
• Understand (and maximize) your organization’s numbers with this free download.

Want more of the podcast?

• New episodes are released weekly! Find them all plus show notes and exclusive bonus content at 100degreesconsulting.com/podcast
• Leave us a review! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Let me know what you loved most about this episode!
• Subscribe to the show so you don’t miss a thing

As a nonprofit organization leader, you understand the importance of securing funding to achieve your goals. However, the process of applying for and managing federal grants can be overwhelming. That’s why we sat down with Patrice Davis, founder of GrantsWorks, to gain valuable insights and advice for pursuing federal grants. In this blog post, we’ll share some of the key takeaways from our conversation that we believe can benefit your organization.

Invest in a Dedicated Grant Manager

Patrice Davis, the founder of Grants Works, emphasizes the importance of having a dedicated grant manager who can ensure that all requirements are met. Davis recommends that organizations invest in a part-time grant manager, ramping up to full-time when possible. A grant manager will work with program teams, finance or accounting teams, and data teams to ensure that everyone is working collaboratively and meeting grant requirements.

Identify Federal Agencies Aligned with Your Work

For organizations looking to apply for federal grants, Patrice advises first identifying the federal agencies that award grants aligned with their work. Organizations can also research state and local government grants. Patrice suggests looking at grant announcements from the previous year to understand requirements and plan accordingly.

Build a Strong Foundation

Patrice stresses the importance of having a strong foundation before applying for federal grants. This includes a healthy donor base, diverse revenue streams, program income, in-kind support, and successful fundraising programs. She also emphasizes the value of an active board that donates to the organization.

Invest in Expertise and Training

Nonprofit organizations can invest in the right expertise, such as grant writers or consulting companies, to help them identify grant opportunities and write grants effectively. They can also enroll in training programs like Grants Works Academy, created by Patrice Davis, which provides cost-effective training that can help organizations become grant-ready and eligible for larger grants.

Research Available Grants

Nonprofit leaders can research available grants by searching government databases such as Grants.gov and USA.gov, as well as private foundation databases like the Foundation Directory Online. They can also invest in a grant prospect research report, which scans the funding landscape to identify government grants and provides in-depth information about available grants.

Comply with Regulations and Reporting Requirements

Grant management also involves complying with various regulations and reporting requirements. Nonprofit organizations must follow the rules and guidelines set forth in the grant agreement, including how the funds are used and how progress is measured and reported. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in the loss of funding or other penalties.

Collaborate and Communicate Proactively with Funders

In addition to training and finding the right grants, successful grant management also requires proactive communication and collaboration with funders. Nonprofit organizations should communicate with grant funders regularly, providing updates on their progress, challenges, and successes. This communication can help build trust and strengthen relationships with funders, which can lead to more funding opportunities in the future.

Work with Grant Management Consultants

To ensure compliance and successful grant management, nonprofit organizations can work with grant management consultants like Grants Works. These consultants can help organizations navigate the complex grant management process, provide training on compliance and reporting requirements, and help organizations stay on track to achieve their goals.

Ultimately, nonprofit organizations face unique challenges in securing the funding they need to achieve their important missions. However, with the right resources and expertise, such as the insights shared by Patrice Davis, founder of Grants Works, nonprofit leaders can better navigate the process of pursuing and managing government grants. By investing in training, research, and collaborative relationships with funders and grant management consultants, nonprofits can increase their chances of securing funding, achieving their goals, and making a lasting difference in their communities.

Read the podcast transcripts here.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Connect with Stephanie on Instagram
• Keep up to date with the podcast on Instagram
• Connect with Patrice on Instagram
• Understand (and maximize) your organization’s numbers with this free download.

Want more of the podcast?

• New episodes are released weekly! Find them all plus show notes and exclusive bonus content at 100degreesconsulting.com/podcast
• Leave us a review! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Let me know what you loved most about this episode!
• Subscribe to the show so you don’t miss a thing

Running a nonprofit can be rewarding but also challenging, especially for leaders juggling various tasks. Success hinges on a strong financial foundation, with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) playing a critical role. In this post, we explore the nonprofit CFO’s role and offer key hiring questions to ensure the best candidate selection.

The Role of a Nonprofit Chief Financial Officer

When I first began my career as a nonprofit CFO, I vividly remember an interview with the board’s treasurer. They were also the retired CFO of a massive global corporation. I was in my late 20s, incredibly nervous, and still relatively new to the world of nonprofit finance. Despite my anxiety, the treasurer shared a piece of advice that has stuck with me throughout my entire career. Their advice? The role of the CFO is to see around the corner.

This simple yet powerful statement set my career on a trajectory that has led me to where I am today. It’s a perspective I carry with me in every aspect of my work as a CFO.

Seeing Around the Corner: Key Responsibilities of a Nonprofit CFO

1. Scenario Planning and Financial Forecasting: A CFO should be able to think through various scenarios that may impact your organization and financially plan for them. This involves forecasting and making projections based on different circumstances, ultimately guiding the decision-making process.

2. Engaging with Stakeholders: As the hub of the organization, the CFO should be able to bring together different teams, such as development, leadership, and program teams, to discuss financial matters.

3. Identifying Patterns and Trends: A CFO should be skilled in using data, KPIs, and analytics to identify potential risks or future opportunities, helping the organization make informed decisions.

Hiring a Nonprofit CFO: Essential Questions to Ask

When searching for the ideal CFO candidate, it’s crucial to ask the right questions and listen for stories that showcase their experience, expertise, and passion for nonprofit work. A candidate who can share stories demonstrating their ability to navigate complex financial situations, collaborate with various stakeholders, and effectively communicate financial information will likely be a strong fit for your organization.

During the interview process, encourage candidates to share stories that illustrate their past experiences in the following areas:

1. Experience in Financial Management: Ask the candidate to share a story about a time when they faced a challenging financial situation and how they navigated it.

2. Nonprofit Experience: Request examples of how the candidate has made a significant impact within a nonprofit organization through their financial expertise.

3. Financial Planning and Budgeting Approach: Have the candidate explain their approach to budgeting and how they have successfully collaborated with different departments in previous roles.
4. Risk Management Strategies: Invite the candidate to discuss a situation where they identified and mitigated a potential financial risk for a nonprofit organization.

5. Communication Style: Encourage the candidate to provide an example of how they effectively communicated complex financial information to various stakeholders.

By understanding the role of a nonprofit CFO and asking the right questions during the hiring process. Then, you can ensure that you’re bringing on a CFO who will help your nonprofit thrive. A strong CFO is not just a financial expert. They’re an essential partner in your organization’s journey toward achieving its mission and making a lasting impact.

Read the podcast transcripts here.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Connect with Stephanie on Instagram
• Connect with 100 Degrees Consulting on Instagram
• Understand (and maximize) your organization’s numbers with this free download.

Want more of the podcast?

• New episodes are released weekly! Find them all plus show notes and exclusive bonus content at 100degreesconsulting.com/podcast
• Leave us a review! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Let me know what you loved most about this episode!
• Subscribe to the show so you don’t miss a thing

As a nonprofit leader, you face the constant challenge of securing funds to keep your organization running smoothly. With so many grant opportunities available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why I want to introduce you to Meredith Noble. Co-founder of Learn Grant Writing, who discovered her passion for grant writing during the 2008 economic recession. Through her online platform, Meredith shares grant writing tips and strategies with others in the nonprofit sector. Join us on this journey as we uncover the secrets to working smarter, not harder, in the quest for funding. By implementing these grant writing tips, you’ll learn how to build a prosperous nonprofit organization that thrives in today’s competitive landscape.

Meredith Noble’s Journey

Meredith began her career in grant writing after graduating during the 2008 economic recession. Unable to find work, she conducted informational interviews to identify potential career opportunities and ultimately discovered her passion for grant writing. After working as a full-time grant writer for an engineering firm, she burned out and vowed never to write another grant again. However, she soon found herself consulting and teaching others how to write grants, eventually leading her to create Learn Grant Writing, where she shares grant writing tips and strategies.

The Global Grant Writers Collective

Learn Grant Writing is best known for its Global Grant Writers Collective, an online community for those looking to improve their grant writing skills or build their careers in the field. The platform offers a comprehensive course, community group, and coaching program that aims to provide unparalleled support and education for grant writers. Participants in the program include both freelance grant writers and those working within nonprofit organizations, all seeking to learn and implement grant writing tips.

Becoming a Grant Writing Unicorn

Meredith’s journey continued with her book, “How to Write a Grant: Become a Grant Writing Unicorn.” She developed an efficient process for writing by outlining, audio recording, and transcribing her thoughts before editing the final version. The book is divided into three sections. The first answers the top 10 questions she’s asked as a grant writer. The second section addresses questions she wishes people would ask. Lastly, the third section focuses on mindset, including the Dunning-Kruger effect and its impact on learning new skills.

The Dunning-Kruger effect describes a pattern in which people initially feel highly confident when starting something new, but their confidence quickly drops as they realize how much they don’t know. Understanding this principle helps individuals embrace the learning process and persevere in gaining competence.

Building a Successful Grant Writing Business and a Balanced Funding Strategy

Meredith emphasizes the importance of a solid funding strategy for nonprofits and advises against the “spray and pray” method of writing as many grants as possible. Instead, she encourages grant writers to focus on creating a well-rounded revenue portfolio for their organization, with grants serving as the icing on the cake rather than the foundation. A diverse funding portfolio can include individual donations, corporate sponsorships, and earned income, among other sources.

Meredith also explains that a grant should ideally make up no more than 20% of a nonprofit’s overall budget to ensure financial stability. A well-planned funding strategy should outline the grants you plan to pursue over the next 12 to 18 months, ensuring that they have a high likelihood of success and offer a good return on investment in terms of resources and time.

Strategic Grant Writing and Building Strong Relationships

The key to successful grant writing lies in critical thinking and research. Rather than blindly applying for any and every grant opportunity that crosses your path, take the time to carefully evaluate each one. Determine whether it aligns with your organization’s mission and if it’s worth the time and effort to pursue. Additionally, it’s essential to build relationships with grantmakers throughout the year. This will not only help you gain a better understanding of their priorities and requirements, but it can also increase your chances of being awarded funding when the time comes to submit an application. Implementing these grant writing tips can significantly impact your organization’s success.

Creating a Prosperous Nonprofit

Meredith believes that a prosperous nonprofit is one that invests in its employees and supports their professional development. This not only helps retain valuable team members. It ensures the organization stays up-to-date with the latest grant writing techniques and strategies. By working smarter, focusing on a comprehensive funding strategy, and diversifying revenue sources, nonprofits can build a stronger foundation and ultimately achieve greater success.

Meredith emphasizes the importance of finding patterns in our work, planning ahead, and being intentional in our actions. This approach creates spaciousness, which she believes is the key to a prosperous nonprofit. By focusing on high-impact tasks and following Pareto’s principle (the 80/20 rule), nonprofits can prioritize their most important work and create a viable, prosperous organization.

Ongoing Support for Grant Writers

One of the unique aspects of Learn Grant Writing’s program is its focus on providing ongoing support for grant writers, even after they’ve completed the initial course. Members can access additional content and resources as they reach new career milestones. This ensures they continue to grow and develop their skills over time and learn new grant writing tips.

Resources for Aspiring Grant Writers

To learn more about grant writing, Meredith recommends visiting LearnGrantWriting.org for a free class and a helpful budget template. You can also find her book, “How to Write a Grant: Become a Grant Writing Unicorn,” on Amazon or at your local bookstore.

Becoming a grant writing unicorn takes dedication, mindset, and strategic planning. By understanding the principles that underpin the learning process, finding patterns in our work, and applying effective grant writing tips, we can create spaciousness in our lives and achieve success in the nonprofit world.

Read the podcast transcripts here.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Connect with Stephanie on Instagram
• Connect with 100 Degrees Consulting on Instagram
• Understand (and maximize) your organization’s numbers with this free download.

Want more of the podcast?

• New episodes are released weekly! Find them all plus show notes and exclusive bonus content at 100degreesconsulting.com/podcast
• Leave us a review! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Let me know what you loved most about this episode!
• Subscribe to the show so you don’t miss a thing

Creating a thriving nonprofit is no small feat, and having the right people on the team is crucial to your organization’s success. In this comprehensive and engaging guide, we’ll discuss the importance of building your nonprofit finance dream team and identify the key roles you need to ensure your organization flourishes.

The Bookkeeper: Laying the Groundwork for Your Finance Team

• Enters and codes transactions
• Reconciles bank accounts
• Handles day-to-day financial management and operations

Think of your bookkeeper as the unsung hero of your finance team. They lay the groundwork by keeping your financial records accurate and up-to-date. When searching for a professional bookkeeper, look for someone with experience in your specific accounting software and a keen eye for detail. A skilled bookkeeper will provide a solid foundation for your finance team, ensuring your organization’s financial health stays in check.

The CFO: The Visionary Captain Steering Your Financial Ship

• Senior-most finance person
• Predicts trends and makes data-driven decisions
• Guides financial strategy and growth

Your CFO is like the captain of your financial ship, guiding your organization’s strategic financial decisions. With their ability to predict trends and make data-driven decisions, they help your organization sail smoothly through challenges and maximize its potential. Look for a CFO with a strong background in nonprofit finance and the ability to effectively communicate with both finance and non-finance team members. With a visionary captain at the helm, your nonprofit is bound for success.

The Controller, Accounting Director, or Finance Manager: The Versatile Middle Ground

• Bridges the gap between the bookkeeper and the CFO
• Manages financial reporting and compliance
• Assists with budgeting and forecasting

These versatile roles serve as the glue that holds your finance team together. They bridge the gap between the bookkeeper and the CFO, taking on more junior aspects of the CFO role and more senior aspects of the bookkeeper role. While these roles may vary between organizations, they are crucial in ensuring your finance team remains balanced and effective. Seek out candidates with strong analytical skills and experience managing finances in a nonprofit setting. With these adaptable team members, your finance department will be a well-oiled machine.

The Accountant: Your Trusty External Expert

• CPA who works outside of your organization
• Files your 990 or conduct audits
• Provides financial advice and guidance

An accountant or an audit firm with nonprofit expertise is like your organization’s trusty sidekick. Building a strong relationship with an external expert helps ensure your financials are accurate and compliant while also providing valuable financial advice and guidance. By having a reliable accountant in your corner, you can confidently navigate the ever-changing world of nonprofit finance.

Building your nonprofit finance dream team involves having a skilled bookkeeper, a visionary CFO, versatile middle-ground roles such as a controller or finance manager, and a trusty external accountant. By assembling this dream team, your organization will be well-equipped to make informed decisions and maximize its impact. Take a moment to assess your current team and consider adding or adjusting roles as necessary to create a solid financial foundation for your nonprofit. With a top-notch finance team in place, your organization will be primed for success and ready to make a lasting impact on the world.

Read the podcast transcripts here.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Connect with Stephanie on Instagram
• Connect with 100 Degrees Consulting on Instagram
• Understand (and maximize) your organization’s numbers with this free download.

Want more of the podcast?

• New episodes are released weekly! Find them all plus show notes and exclusive bonus content at 100degreesconsulting.com/podcast
• Leave us a review! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Let me know what you loved most about this episode!
• Subscribe to the show so you don’t miss a thing

In the past, many nonprofits focused on their mission at the expense of infrastructure, leading to overworked and burnt-out teams. Thrive Impact’s CEO, Tucker Wannamaker, offers a groundbreaking co-creation approach to empower nonprofits to thrive without sacrificing their team members’ well-being.

The Scarcity Mindset

Nonprofit leaders often face the challenge of the scarcity mindset, where they feel like there is never enough time, resources, or progress. This can lead to overwork and undervaluing their own worth. To combat this, Wannamaker advises nonprofit leaders to reflect on their progress and wins on a weekly basis. By creating a space to reflect on the best of who they are and have been, nonprofit leaders can actively get out of the scarcity mindset.

Unlocking the Heads and Hearts of All Team MembersUnlocking the Heads and Hearts of All Team Members

In today’s rapidly changing world, traditional top-down approaches to change are no longer effective. Instead, Wannamaker emphasizes the importance of unlocking the heads and hearts of all team members and inviting them into co-creating the organization’s future. This approach allows nonprofit leaders to discover themselves and their solutions, creating conditions for conversation and learning and building the collective identity of organizations.

The Power of Great Questions

Leadership is not about having all the answers but rather inviting team members into the struggle and co-creating the organization’s future. By asking great questions and empowering team members to craft what they want to create, organizations can achieve better impact, revenue, and culture. Wannamaker’s personal story highlights the importance of shifting from the few who have the answers mentality to engaging the many and the power of great questions.

The Co-Creation Approach

Co-creation is the process of creating something new by engaging with stakeholders to foster innovation, transparency, and buy-in. Wannamaker believes that co-creation is the greatest form of humanity. It creates conditions where people are empowered to craft what they want to create, leading to more engagement and energy. By breaking away from traditional top-down approaches and embracing co-creation, nonprofit organizations can adapt to the exponential rate of change and achieve better impact.

Transparency Builds Trust

Transparency is a key component of building a prosperous nonprofit. Co-creation creates a space of buy-in that is more efficient than any kind of top-down approach. Wannamaker advises nonprofit leaders to implement a strengths-based approach, which involves reflecting on what has been the best of their organization, identifying the factors involved, and creating a rhythm of learning to move forward. By implementing co-creation principles or activities, nonprofits can foster innovation and trust.

Creating a Prosperous Nonprofit

A prosperous nonprofit creates conditions that allow for its people to thrive, which subsequently helps the people they serve. It is a learning organization that has a clear and unique value proposition and creates rhythms of learning that allow for it to reflect on a regular basis. Wannamaker believes that creating a prosperous nonprofit is a journey that requires a willingness to learn and iterate.

Join the Movement

Thrive Impact’s co-creation approach is a new way of working that fosters innovation, transparency, and trust for nonprofit leaders. Reflect on progress and wins on a weekly basis and implement a strengths-based approach. Ask great questions, invite team members into the struggle, and co-create the organization’s future. Join the movement towards creating prosperous nonprofits that thrive without sacrificing their people. Check out Thrive Impact’s free workshop, “The Six Shifts that Every Nonprofit Leader Needs to Make to Lead in the Next Normal,” and connect with other nonprofit leaders who are going through similar experiences.

Read the podcast transcripts here.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Connect with Stephanie on Instagram
• Connect with 100 Degrees Consulting on Instagram
• Understand (and maximize) your organization’s numbers with this free download.
• Connect with Tucker on Instagram
• Connect with Thrive Impact on Instagram

Want more of the podcast?

• New episodes are released weekly! Find them all plus show notes and exclusive bonus content at 100degreesconsulting.com/podcast
• Leave us a review! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Let me know what you loved most about this episode!
• Subscribe to the show so you don’t miss a thing

As a nonprofit leader, you understand the importance of sound financial management. And to effectively manage your finances, you need the right accounting software. In this post, we’ll discuss the two most popular options, QuickBooks Online and Blackbaud Financial Edge, and compare their strengths and weaknesses to help you identify which accounting software is right for your nonprofit.

QuickBooks Online: Affordable and User-Friendly

QuickBooks Online is a cloud-based accounting software that is popular among nonprofits for several reasons. Firstly, it is affordable. Nonprofits can take advantage of the discounts offered by TechSoup and get a subscription for as little as $100 per year. This makes QuickBooks Online a great option for small to mid-sized organizations that need a reliable accounting software on a tight budget.

Another advantage of QuickBooks Online is its user-friendliness. The software is designed for non-accountants and is easy to navigate, making it an excellent option for organizations that don’t have a dedicated finance team. QuickBooks Online is intuitive, and users can set up and run reports quickly and easily. The software also integrates with many third-party tools, including Bill.com for bill payment and Gusto for payroll management.

However, QuickBooks Online has its limitations. It is not ideal for larger organizations that require more robust reporting capabilities. It may not be able to handle complex accounting needs, such as fund accounting or grant tracking, making it a poor choice for some nonprofits.

Blackbaud Financial Edge: Robust and Integrated

Blackbaud Financial Edge is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system that is tailored specifically to nonprofits. The software is designed to handle the complex accounting needs of large nonprofit organizations. It is a highly robust platform that can handle fund accounting, grant tracking, and complex financial reporting.

One of the significant advantages of Blackbaud Financial Edge is that it is tightly integrated with other Blackbaud products, including its donor database software Razor’s Edge. This makes it easy to reconcile donations and other programmatic data with financial data, streamlining the process and saving time.

However, Blackbaud Financial Edge is also more expensive than QuickBooks Online. It may not be a cost-effective option for smaller organizations that don’t need all its advanced features. Additionally, the software can be challenging to navigate for non-accountants and requires a significant investment in training to use effectively.

NetSuite for Nonprofits: Comprehensive but Costly

NetSuite has gained popularity among nonprofits for its comprehensive ERP system that goes beyond accounting to provide financial management, CRM, e-commerce, and programmatic data tracking features. Its scalability makes growing your organization a breeze, accommodating extra users and complex processes as needed. NetSuite’s high customizability addresses the unique needs of your nonprofit while offering real-time reporting and analytics for well-informed decision-making. Plus, as a cloud-based platform, it gets rid of the need for on-site infrastructure and allows remote access.

However, there are a few downsides to consider. NetSuite can be pricey for smaller nonprofits when you factor in the costs of implementation and ongoing maintenance. The platform’s complexity might also require a steep learning curve for staff to become acquainted with its features. Additionally, although NetSuite integrates with numerous third-party applications, there could be limitations depending on the specific tools your organization uses. The capacity to merge programmatic data into the same platform as accounting, as demonstrated by one of our clients, underscores NetSuite’s wide-ranging capabilities.

Wave for Nonprofits: A Budget-Friendly Option with Some Limitations

Wave has become a go-to choice for small nonprofits due to its free accounting software, which is particularly appealing when budgets are tight. Designed with non-accountants in mind, Wave is user-friendly and easy to navigate, making it ideal for organizations without dedicated finance teams. As a cloud-based solution, Wave enables remote access and eliminates the need for on-premise infrastructure. It offers essential accounting features, such as invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting, while also integrating with some popular third-party applications for streamlined workflows.

On the flip side, Wave does have its drawbacks. Its limited functionality might not be sufficient for larger or more complex nonprofits, particularly those requiring fund accounting or grant tracking capabilities. Additionally, Wave lacks a dedicated nonprofit version, which could lead to less efficient financial management. Limited customer support may also pose challenges when addressing issues or concerns with the software. As your organization grows, Wave’s limited features and functionality might not be able to keep up with your expanding needs. Furthermore, compared to other accounting software options, Wave offers fewer third-party integrations, potentially hindering your organization’s ability to create a cohesive software ecosystem.

Which Software Is Right for You?

Choosing the right accounting software for your nonprofit organization requires careful consideration of your needs and budget. QuickBooks Online is an excellent option for small to mid-sized nonprofits that need a reliable and user-friendly accounting software at an affordable price.

For larger organizations with more complex accounting needs, Blackbaud Financial Edge may be a better fit. However, it comes at a higher cost and requires more extensive training to use effectively.

Ultimately, the best nonprofit accounting software is the one that meets your organization’s unique needs and is user-friendly. Both QuickBooks Online and Blackbaud Financial Edge have their strengths and weaknesses, and it’s up to you to decide which one is right for your nonprofit.

Read the podcast transcripts here.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Connect with Stephanie on Instagram
• Understand (and maximize) your organization’s numbers with this free download.

Want more of the podcast?

• New episodes are released weekly! Find them all plus show notes and exclusive bonus content at 100degreesconsulting.com/podcast
• Leave us a review! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Let me know what you loved most about this episode!
• Subscribe to the show so you don’t miss a thing