In 2023, the average first-time donor retention rate was 19.63%. This means that for every 100 new donors nonprofits recruited, less than 20 of them returned to make a second contribution.

When you are preparing your next budget, consider all the time you spend worrying about administrative tasks that you don’t feel confident your organization has the expertise to do efficiently and correctly.

Does your staff team know how to spot the difference between a legitimate email requesting payment for an invoice and a phishing scam that's meant to steal funds or data from you?

Think about all the digital tools that make your nonprofit’s work possible—from your website and constituent relationship management (CRM) software to the platforms you use to communicate with donors and run fundraisers.

Whether you’re still tracking constituent data in disconnected (and unsecured!) Excel spreadsheets or if you feel like your database needs a “deep clean,” we’re here to help!

Your nonprofit’s brand makes it stand out from the crowd, communicates its mission more effectively, and inspires support for its efforts. When supporters can immediately recognize your organization’s brand, it builds confidence that leads to stronger relationships and increased engagement. But to experience these benefits, it’s critical to maintain consistency in your branding.

Are you making the most of your fundraising software?

Planning a successful event can be challenging. Your nonprofit has many balls to juggle and to-do lists to complete for everything to run smoothly. However, one detail that you should not overlook is accessibility.

As a nonprofit leader, you’ve spent significant time and energy planning for your organization’s long-term growth. To put those plans into action and maximize your impact, it’s crucial to prioritize your nonprofit’s financial future, too.

The federal Office of Management and Budget (OMB) recently published revisions to rules governing federal grantmaking to charitable nonprofits (as well as state, local, and Tribal governments) that will go into effect on October 1, 2024.

Major events, such as galas and auctions, bring in vital revenue for your nonprofit. However, in between these major fundraisers, you should look to diversify your organization’s revenue streams. By doing so, you can earn more revenue, remain afloat in the event a fundraiser falls through, and give supporters more ways to engage.

Every major gift your nonprofit receives represents hours of careful research, thoughtful stewardship, and meaningful solicitation work. As the largest contributions your nonprofit receives, these gifts have the power to truly drive your mission forward.

501 Commons encourages nonprofits to engage in GiveBIG, GivingTuesday, and the year-round Washington Gives program to reconnect with donors amid declining year-end giving trends. We're seeing the largest drop in donors, including those who donate less than $500 (which comprises 80% of donors).

Written by Vonnita Jones & Kai Dailey

Technology is foundational to helping nonprofits raise money, improve their productivity, measure program effectiveness, and communicate. Our newly revamped Plan IT program can empower you to make technology a more reliable partner in achieving your mission.