Go Beyond Fundraising: The Podcast for Nonprofits

Nonprofits may be using AI, but how can they go beyond the surface level of basic prompts to leverage the tools necessary to make an impact on their missions and achieve their goals? In this episode of the “Go Beyond Fundraising” podcast, CEO Trent Ricker and Raney John, VP of AI Strategy and Success, dig into what it means to move beyond AI experimentation and begin using it as a practical, mission-driven tool. From donor stewardship and grant research and writing to volunteer training, reporting, and website strategy, Trent and Ren break down real-world ways nonprofits are already using AI to create efficiency, increase capacity, and strengthen human connection – without replacing it. The discussion also explores leadership, organizational culture, governance, and the importance of staying curious as AI tools evolve at a rapid pace. Wherever your organization is with AI, this conversation offers practical insights, examples, and leadership advice to help nonprofits navigate one of the biggest technology shifts in decades.

Did you know Gen Z is 10 times more likely to share their donations on social media compared to Baby Boomers? Passionate, tech savvy and socially connected, Gen Z is an audience nonprofits can’t afford to ignore. In this episode of the Go Beyond Fundraising podcast, we talk with Michelle Boggs, Senior Advisor for Nonprofit Fundraising and Development at Classy by GoFundMe, about the surprising new research in the latest Social State of Giving report, highlighting Gen Z's significant engagement with social media for philanthropy and what that means for nonprofits. The report found that 41% of Gen Z, 25% of millennials, and 20% of Gen X are motivated to donate by social media content. We discuss impact creators and why they are crucial for reaching younger donors, as well as leveraging AI to drive future social giving trends. We also take a dive into new tools like Meta integration and GoFundMe profiles that enhance the donor experience and tap into the power of social sharing. Curious about what’s next in fundraising? Connect with some of the sector’s most forward-thinking minds at the upcoming Collaborative, presented by Classy by GoFundMe. This interactive and inspiring event is your chance to expand your network and gain fresh insights into the future of fundraising.

Don’t sleep on incorporating SMS, or text messaging, into your future fundraising campaigns. While many nonprofits use this powerful tool it’s growing in popularity and effectiveness, especially with the decline in traditional telemarketing. In this episode of the Go Beyond Fundraising podcast, we talk with Stephanie Drahan, Vice President of Account Management, and David Sachetti, Associate Vice President for Client Strategy, about SMS, why it’s an important tactic, and how it can be leveraged in fundraising campaigns. SMS can function as a bridge between online and offline fundraising by adding an additional touchpoint for donors. Nonprofits new to SMS can start with a peer-to-peer program for smaller audiences, such as event registration, while those with larger audiences may deploy a blast or broadcast SMS campaign to reach thousands. It’s simple to use, less intrusive than other forms of marketing, and let’s face it – almost everyone has their cell phone nearby. Another bonus? It’s easy to personalize and create a one-on-one experience.

Your website is the hub of your digital presence. Depending on the size of your organization, your site could have anywhere from hundreds to thousands of pages — that’s a significant amount of content to manage. A content management system (CMS) simplifies this process so you can unlock new opportunities to connect with your audience. In this episode of the Go Beyond Fundraising podcast, we talk with three of Allegiance Group + Pursuant’s web experts, Russ Chettiar, Ren John, and Mark Leta, about how a CMS can make your website more efficient and effective. If you’re in the market for a new website or CMS, this episode is for you. We break down precisely what you should look for in a CMS and offer quick tips to help you begin the search process in the right direction. Get ready to bring your data and content together for a dynamic and engaging web experience that drives meaningful interactions with your supporters.

It’s more important than ever to be transparent about how you use donations in your organization. Next-generation donors especially want an immediate return on their dollars. But there’s more to it than sending a thank-you email; getting creative with technology can make a significant difference. In this episode of the Go Beyond Fundraising podcast, Chief Strategy Officer Trent Ricker talks with Christa Stelzmuller, Chief Technology Officer at charity: water, about how the nonprofit’s 100% model is driving donor loyalty and long-term support. Christa also discusses her switch from startups and what nonprofits can learn from B Corps companies with social good built into their business models. Facing increasing competition from for-profit do-gooders, Christa explains how nonprofits can utilize technology like virtual reality and GPS mapping to draw a distinct connection between donations and impact. She also gives a sneak preview of an innovative and immersive experience charity: water will launch soon.

How is your nonprofit's brand significant in the lives of your loyal users? That's the question branding expert Cynthia Round asks every organization that works with her. The reason? Studies have shown that building and maintaining an emotional connection with your users is what inspires their loyalty. In this episode, learn how Cynthia has worked with some of the nonprofit industry's most distinguished institutions to ensure they remain relevant in the lives of their most valuable supporters. Along the way, you'll discover: - Successful strategies for discovering what your donors care about beyond surface metrics - Tactics for creating an emotional connection with your audience - Ways to encourage buy-in of a new brand identity across your entire organization

Omni-channel fundraising strategies are the foundation of every nonprofit we work with. But to ensure you’re reaching the right donors with the right messaging, you need to step back and evaluate every constituent relationship and communication. A touchpoint audit is part of a larger journey-mapping exercise that lays out the many ways donors and leads interact with your organization. In this episode of the Go Beyond Fundraising podcast, Matthew Mielcarek, SVP of Analytics & Insights Strategy, walks us through this valuable tactic. You’ll learn: How to begin journey mapping Why it’s important to put on your “donor hat” How the donor vortex comes into play How touchpoint audits differ for new leads vs new donors Why it all comes down to stronger donor relationships

Are you overwhelmed by omnichannel fundraising? As tricky as this approach can be, it’s crucial to build deeper loyalty with your constituents. On this episode of the Go Beyond Fundraising podcast, we talk with Laura Hinrichsen, VP of Advertising, and Kacey Crawford, VP of Digital Strategy, about how nonprofits can master omnichannel fundraising and marketing. We break down crucial concepts, share practical tips, and discuss real-world success stories to help your nonprofit thrive in a competitive landscape. Our two Allegiance Group + Pursuant experts also offer advice on breaking down internal siloes that may be holding your organization back. They’ll help you secure buy-in from each team and upper management so you can work together to achieve your goals. Listen now to start building the foundation for an omnichannel strategy that puts your constituents front and center.