Hey Nonprofits!

HGA Fundraising

The 'Hey Nonprofits!' podcast is here to help fundraisers and event professionals Raise More Money. Each week, we bring on an industry expert to highlight important tips and strategies, and you can use them effectively to grow your organization. Whether you simply need help communicating with donors or need advanced tactics with setting up live auctions and fundraising events—host Trevor Nelson is here to guide you toward success. Be sure to tune in for a new episode every Tuesday! Brought to you by HGA Fundraising.

  1. Board Members Won't Fundraise? Try This Proven Method

    -5 J

    Board Members Won't Fundraise? Try This Proven Method

    Are you tired of a nonprofit board that does nothing to help with fundraising? Discover the proven method to get your board members to finally start raising money and contributing to your cause. This strategy is so simple, you'll wonder why you didn't try it sooner. In this episode of Hey Nonprofits, host Trevor Nelson sits down with Ryan Scarola, a nonprofit founder who turned his inactive board of directors into a fundraising powerhouse. Ryan shares his exact tactics for getting board members engaged, from providing them with the right tools to making the ask irresistible. Learn the secrets to authentic donor cultivation, building powerful relationships, and overcoming the fear of asking for support. This conversation is full of actionable fundraising strategies for any nonprofit leader looking to grow their individual giving and build a community of passionate supporters. 🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗 Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/ Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/ Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanscarola/ 💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙 This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY. To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/ Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/ Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/ 📌 *CHAPTERS* 📌 0:00 - The Shocking Truth About Most Nonprofit Boards 0:54 - Why Nonprofit Work Never Gets Easier 2:20 - The Secret to Avoiding Burnout 3:41 - The #1 Time Management Hack for Leaders 5:21 - Our First Campaign Goal Was Tiny...Then THIS Happened 7:33 - The #1 Secret to Getting People to Donate 8:49 - This Simple Thank You Card Trick Gets Results 10:29 - What to Do When a Board Member Brings in a HUGE Gift 12:24 - What Happens When Your Board Does NOTHING 14:19 - I Fired 80% of My Board, Here's Why 16:42 - From Personal Tragedy to a Powerful Mission 20:03 - The Soft Skills They DON'T Teach You in School 23:55 - The Devastating Statistic That Inspired Everything 25:11 - The #1 Mistake Fundraisers Make (And How to Fix It) 27:55 - The Surprising Reason Some People NEVER Ask for Money 32:13 - How to Build Relationships That Last (And Get MORE Donations) 37:04 - Why I'll Turn Down a Million Dollar Funder 38:50 - The LinkedIn Post That Changed EVERYTHING 40:58 - The Biggest Mistake Nonprofits Make in Their Thank You Letters 45:48 - Your Nonprofit's BIGGEST Financial Mistake 50:19 - When Disaster Strikes, Do THIS Immediately 52:57 - The Mindset Hack That Unlocks Fundraising Success 56:45 - The Uncomfortable Truth You Need to Hear

    57 min
  2. The Biggest Storytelling Mistake Nonprofits Make

    9 SEPT.

    The Biggest Storytelling Mistake Nonprofits Make

    A fundraising story that raises millions can also put a life in danger. The biggest storytelling mistake nonprofits make isn't about the money you could lose; it's about the irreversible harm you don't even see you're causing. In this episode of Hey Nonprofits, host Trevor Nelson sits down with ethical storytelling expert Diana Farias to uncover this critical issue. Diana shares the powerful and personal story of how she learned that a successful fundraising campaign can have devastating consequences for a story owner. She reveals why even well-intentioned nonprofits are at risk of ruining their reputation and breaking community trust. Discover how to create a simple and consistent process for gathering stories that protects your clients, honors your mission, and ultimately inspires more giving. This conversation provides a clear framework to help you raise money with both confidence and integrity. 🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗 Connect with Diana Farias on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianafariasheinrich/ Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/ Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/ 💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙 This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY. To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/ Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/ Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/ 📌 *CHAPTERS* 📌 0:00 - Perfection is the Enemy of Progress 0:34 - My Journey to Ethical Storytelling 1:14 - My First Assignment: A Massive Success 1:58 - The Overheard Conversation That Changed Everything 2:56 - A Mistake I Vowed Never to Repeat 3:52 - Turning My Mistake Into My Mission 5:51 - Is "Ethical Storytelling" Just a Buzzword? 6:36 - The #1 Person Fundraisers Always Forget 8:20 - Be Clear Over Clever in Your Stories 9:27 - The 12-Story System for Easy Content 11:32 - How to Reuse and Refresh Your Stories 12:44 - Using AI to Build Your Content Library 14:16 - Why I Created the Ethical Nonprofit Summit 18:38 - The 10-Word Mission Statement 20:55 - Are You a Story Owner or a Storyteller? 22:46 - Tell Your Story From a Scar, Not a Wound 25:00 - When The Client Feels Obligated to Say Yes 26:48 - What's Next for Diana and Her Mission 27:43 - Where You Can Find Diana Online

    29 min
  3. The Most Creative Fundraising Idea We've Ever Heard

    2 SEPT.

    The Most Creative Fundraising Idea We've Ever Heard

    Forget everything you think you know about fundraising events. There's a simple and creative way to get your donors excited to give, and it has nothing to do with a traditional gala. On this episode of Hey Nonprofits, host Trevor Nelson sits down with expert event planner Mary Davidson to discuss the most brilliant fundraising idea we've ever heard. Mary explains why simplifying your event with shorter, mission-centric programs and creative gamification leads to more engagement and bigger donations. She shares powerful insights on the importance of in-person connection, tips for collaborating with other leaders, and her own journey from a nonprofit employee to a successful business owner. If you want fresh, actionable strategies to make your next fundraiser a huge success, this is the conversation for you. 🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗 Connect with Mary on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryrosedavidson/ Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/ Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/ 💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙 This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY. To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/ Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/ Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/ 📌 *CHAPTERS* 📌 0:00 The Truth About Nonprofit Work 0:24 How Trevor Discovered The Better Events Podcast 1:43 The Podcast Every Fundraiser Should Hear 2:52 The Unseen Heroes of Fundraising Events 4:36 What is an "Event with a Purpose"? 5:24 Why Seattle is a Nonprofit Hotspot 7:02 From Nonprofit Employee to Business Owner 9:10 The #1 Sign You Need to Start Your Own Business 11:34 The Mindset Trick All Great Leaders Use 12:28 "Fake It 'Til You Make It" Actually Works! 13:49 Who REALLY Runs a Fundraising Event? 15:24 Avoid This Mistake at Your Next Event Meeting 17:09 Why In-Person Events Are BACK! 18:37 The Secret Sauce of In-Person Fundraising 20:06 The Real Reason Nonprofits Hate Events 22:37 The "Less is More" Event Strategy That Works 24:35 Understanding Your Donors' Giving Style 25:50 Why Your Event Needs Different Ways to Give 27:05 The Most Creative Fundraising Idea We've Ever Heard! 29:00 The #1 Trend in Events Right Now 30:07 Video vs. Live Speaker: Which Is Better? 31:39 The Best Fundraising Game You've Never Heard Of 33:52 The Great Debate: Live Auction or Fund-A-Need First? 36:08 How to Avoid Burnout in the Nonprofit World 38:54 The Power of Collaboration Over Competition 41:45 Mary's Conference for Event Professionals 44:03 Where to Find Mary Davidson Online

    45 min
  4. The AI Breakthrough That Rewrites Every Rule of Fundraising

    28 AOÛT

    The AI Breakthrough That Rewrites Every Rule of Fundraising

    Your fundraising strategy is about to become ancient history. This AI breakthrough isn't just a small update; it's a complete revolution that changes everything you know about donor relationships and growing your nonprofit. In this episode of Hey Nonprofits, host Trevor Nelson is joined by fundraising expert and AI pioneer Nathan Chappell to discuss the most profound technology shift in human history. They explore why old methods like focusing on cost per dollar raised are failing and how the shrinking donor pool is forcing a new approach. Nathan explains how any nonprofit can use predictive and generative AI to build a true community, create personalization at scale, and foster generosity. This conversation reveals the simple steps to embrace innovation and curiosity, ensuring your organization thrives in this new era. 🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗 Connect with Nathan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/ Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/ Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/ 💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙 This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY. To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/ Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/ Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/ 📌 *CHAPTERS* 📌 0:00 - The Future of Fundraising is Here 0:51 - Why People Thought He Was Crazy 10 Years Ago 1:22 - How He Accidentally Got Into Nonprofits 2:35 - The Non-Profit Sector Lacks This Critical Skill 3:55 - The Secret to Thriving in an Exponential World 5:10 - This Is The Reason Non-Profits Don't Innovate 6:55 - The Shocking Decline in Charitable Giving 8:13 - Can Technology Widen the Donor Pool? 10:03 - The Myth About Wealthy Donors DEBUNKED 11:32 - How to Use AI for Personalization at Scale 13:45 - Why Your Fundraising Job Gets Harder Every Year 15:18 - A Simple Explanation of AI for Beginners 16:19 - Why Relationships Are The Key to Fundraising 18:03 - The Surprising Power of The Third Event 19:43 - The Biggest Mistake Non-Profits Make 22:24 - The Donor Pool Will Absolutely Grow If We Do This 23:36 - Are You a Barrier to Generosity? 25:07 - Why Non-Profit Professionals Use AI in Secret 29:01 - Why NOT Using AI Will Be The End of Your Non-Profit 31:05 - AI Is a Bigger Shift Than The Internet & Electricity COMBINED 35:42 - Predictive AI vs. Generative AI Explained 40:13 - Which AI Tool Should You Use? 42:41 - The Future of AI: What is AGI & ASI? 44:17 - What is Quantum Computing? 46:21 - Quick Tips to Get Started With AI Today 52:02 - The #1 Skill to Hire For In The Age of AI 55:12 - How to Connect With Nathan Chappell 57:45 - Non-Profits Are Like Entrepreneurial Endeavors

    58 min
  5. Nonprofit vs. For-Profit: What a Silicon Valley CTO Learned

    26 AOÛT

    Nonprofit vs. For-Profit: What a Silicon Valley CTO Learned

    Is your nonprofit run more like a passion project than a business? A former Silicon Valley CTO reveals why that mindset is costing you donations and limiting your impact. This isn't about choosing mission over money. It's about using smart business strategy to fuel that mission. On this episode of Hey Nonprofits, host Trevor Nelson sits down with Christa Stelzmuller, the Chief Technology Officer of Charity: Water. Christa shares how she applies powerful lessons from the for-profit world to the nonprofit sector. Learn how to think about your donors as consumers, why technology is not a cost center but your greatest tool for growth, and how simple changes in your fundraising approach can lead to incredible results. This conversation provides a clear roadmap for any nonprofit leader looking to increase their funding and make a bigger difference. 🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗 Connect with Christa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cstelzmuller/ Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/ Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/ 💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙 This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY. To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/ Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/ Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/ 📌 *CHAPTERS* 📌 0:00 - The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything 0:48 - Meet the Silicon Valley CTO Helping Nonprofits 1:37 - What is Charity: Water? 2:15 - This Global Crisis is Actually Solvable 3:44 - Why Building a Well is Not Enough 5:07 - How They Plan to Double 18 Years of Work in 5 7:29 - Their Genius "100% Model" You Should Steal 10:10 - How to Make a $20 Donor Feel Like a Million Bucks 11:26 - Using Tech to Tell a Better Story 13:30 - Data vs. Heart: Reporting Both Sides of Your Impact 15:23 - You're a Non-Profit, Not a Charity Case 16:06 - The #1 Mindset Shift: Your Donors are Consumers 18:15 - Why a Top Tech Exec Left Silicon Valley 20:33 - Is Your Non-Profit a "Cost Center" or an Investment? 22:01 - The 3 Main Jobs of a Non-Profit CTO 23:27 - You MUST Have a CRM 25:20 - How to Make the Jump from For-Profit to Non-Profit 27:05 - How to Connect with Charity: Water

    29 min
  6. Why Nonprofits That Don’t Adapt Are Failing (And How to Fix It)

    19 AOÛT

    Why Nonprofits That Don’t Adapt Are Failing (And How to Fix It)

    Nonprofits that refuse to adapt are falling behind, and fast. In today’s rapidly changing world, sticking to outdated strategies could be costing your organization donations and impact. But how can your nonprofit thrive when resources are tight, and traditional methods no longer work? In this episode of the Hey Nonprofits podcast, host Trevor Nelson and guest Leya Simmons dive deep into why adaptability and creativity are no longer optional, they’re essential. Together, they reveal how nonprofits can embrace innovative fundraising strategies, address common leadership challenges, and foster collaboration to drive real results. Learn how strong nonprofit boards, authentic leadership, and a focus on self-care help organizations tackle tough challenges. Whether you’re a development director, fundraising volunteer, or nonprofit leader, you’ll gain actionable advice to help your organization stay nimble, build trust with donors, and create lasting impact in your community. 🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗 Connect with Leya on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leyasimmons/ Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/ Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/ 💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙 This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY. To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/ Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/ Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

    45 min
  7. How Nonprofits Win on LinkedIn: Best Strategies

    14 AOÛT

    How Nonprofits Win on LinkedIn: Best Strategies

    Keep striking out on LinkedIn? Discover ways nonprofits are growing donations and finding new partners using LinkedIn! On this episode of Hey Nonprofits, host Trevor Nelson is joined by Mario Hernandez and Randy Molland to reveal how building real relationships, not just quick transactions, helps organizations stand out and win. Learn strategic LinkedIn networking tips, how to reach the right corporate sponsors, and why your mission needs to align with your messages online. If you want to see real fundraising results and create a bigger community, this conversation is a must watch for every nonprofit leader and fundraiser looking for modern solutions. 🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗 Connect with Mario Hernandez on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marioknobl/ connect with Randy Holland on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randymolland/?originalSubdomain=ca Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/ Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/ This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY. To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here:  https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/ Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/ Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:   https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/ Chapters: 0:00 Tapping into LinkedIn for Fundraising Success 1:32 Grow Your Network, No Followers Needed! 4:50 Secrets to Keeping Employees and Donors Happy 6:18 Nonprofit Outreach: Easy Wins with Business Partners 9:12 Attract Companies: Make Them Chase You 10:41 Build Powerful Fundraising Relationships 13:13 LinkedIn Hacks for Real Connections 14:36 Breakthrough Networking: Say Goodbye to Self-Doubt 17:16 Why LinkedIn Beats Other Social Media 18:25 Stand Out and Shine on LinkedIn 20:47 Grow Your Community and Impact—Simple Steps 21:59 Supercharge Event Success with Corporate Partners

    23 min
  8. How Nonprofits Can Attract Major Donors (Step-by-Step Guide)

    12 AOÛT

    How Nonprofits Can Attract Major Donors (Step-by-Step Guide)

    Struggling to attract major donors for your nonprofit? In this episode of Hey Nonprofits, hosts Trevor Nelson and Jason Ledlow sit down with special guest Bill High to reveal proven strategies to identify, connect with, and inspire high-value donors to support your cause. If your nonprofit has ever wondered how to approach wealth transfer opportunities, leverage donor-advised funds, or create emotional connections that drive donations, this is the guide you’ve been waiting for. The conversation dives into the $140 trillion wealth transfer happening right now, how to tap into legacy giving, and why understanding donor profiles is critical for building long-term relationships. You’ll also learn how effective storytelling and clear communication can turn personal connections into transformative gifts. Whether it’s cash, securities, or unexpected assets like real estate or collectibles, discover practical tips to maximize your fundraising efforts and plan for sustainable giving. This step-by-step guide will help your nonprofit think bigger, work smarter, and attract the donors who can create lasting impact. 🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗 Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamfhigh/ Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/ Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/ 💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙 This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY. To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/ Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/ Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/ 📌 *CHAPTERS* 📌 00:00 - Find BIG Donors 00:48 - Bottom of the Funnel Strategies 02:26 - Largest Wealth Transfer in History 06:25 - Family Issues in Charitable Giving 09:08 - Nonprofits Preparing for Non-Cash Gifts 14:16 - Researching Business Owners 18:17 - Motivations Behind Giving 21:30 - Bill's Book: The Legacy Mindset 29:14 - Effective Donor Communication 30:38 - Traits of Top Development Reps 32:23 - Donor Expectations and Needs 36:41 - Optimal Time for Fundraising 39:10 - Accepting Non-Cash Gifts 42:15 - Evaluating Gift Quality 45:04 - Connecting with Bill

    47 min
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À propos

The 'Hey Nonprofits!' podcast is here to help fundraisers and event professionals Raise More Money. Each week, we bring on an industry expert to highlight important tips and strategies, and you can use them effectively to grow your organization. Whether you simply need help communicating with donors or need advanced tactics with setting up live auctions and fundraising events—host Trevor Nelson is here to guide you toward success. Be sure to tune in for a new episode every Tuesday! Brought to you by HGA Fundraising.

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