DT #615 The Future of Funding: How EDOs Can Thrive in an Uncertain 2026

Show Notes

As part of the Develop This! 2026 Crystal Ball Series, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Andy Coe, Principal at Convergent Nonprofit Solutions, to explore what lies ahead for economic development organization (EDO) funding as communities head toward 2026.

With public funding under pressure and competition for private dollars increasing, this episode delivers a candid, practical conversation about risk management, revenue diversification, and leadership strategy. Andy draws on his national experience working alongside EDOs, chambers, and nonprofit organizations to explain why some communities will struggle—and why others will emerge stronger than ever.

Dennis and Andy also reflect on the long-standing relationship between Develop This! and Convergent Nonprofit Solutions, highlighting shared values around leadership, transparency, and sustainable community investment.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Why waiting for funding clarity is no longer an option
• How strong investor relationships and communication can stabilize—or grow—budgets
• What EDO leaders must do to clearly articulate impact in a crowded funding environment
• How asking better questions can uncover hidden community capacity and opportunity
• Why organizations that lead with purpose and data will outperform those that rely on legacy funding models

Key Takeaways

• Proactive leadership is essential to mitigating funding risk
• Diversifying revenue sources is no longer optional—it's foundational
• Strong, authentic relationships drive fundraising success
• Clear communication of impact builds investor confidence
• Asking the right questions reveals new funding and partnership opportunities