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Million Dollar Nonprofit

Million Dollar Nonprofit

381 episodes — Page 7 of 8

Ep 81The 3-Step System to Save Hours on Volunteer Management Using AI + Automation

Volunteers are your secret weapon—but managing them can feel like a full-time job.In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, host Tom Kelly breaks down how to save hours every week by automating the most time-consuming parts of volunteer management. From onboarding to reminders to appreciation, you’ll learn how to build a seamless volunteer experience that runs on autopilot.You’ll walk away with:A 3-step automation flow you can set up todayChatGPT prompts to generate onboarding emails, reminder texts, and thank-you notesTools like ConvertKit, Calendly, and GoHighLevel to put it all togetherReal examples and bonus prompts that boost volunteer retentionWhether you have 5 volunteers or 500, these systems scale with you—so you can stay focused on impact, not inbox chaos.Want the Volunteer Automation Toolkit with all the prompts and templates? DM Tom the word “AI” on Instagram. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a daily shortcut.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

May 31, 20256 min

Ep 80How to Eliminate 90% of Your Nonprofit Busywork with AI, Automation, and the Right Systems

You didn’t start a nonprofit to be your own admin assistant.You started it to make a difference. But now you're buried in emails, Zoom links, donor thank-yous, and spreadsheet chaos.In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, host Tom Kelly shows you how to eliminate 90% of your busywork using systems, automation, and AI—so you can stop spinning your wheels and get back to work that actually moves your mission forward.You’ll learn:How to spot $10/hour tasks stealing your time from $1,000/hour impact workHow to build your own “Auto-Me”—an automation system that acts like a second youThe exact ChatGPT prompts, tools, and workflows that save nonprofit leaders 10+ hours a weekThis is your blueprint to stop managing chaos and start leading with clarity.Let’s dive in.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

May 30, 20257 min

Ep 79How to Turn Nonprofit Chaos Into Operational Clarity in 3 Simple Steps

Running a nonprofit can feel like juggling fire while riding a unicycle—blindfolded. One minute you're solving problems, the next you’re buried in emails, grant deadlines, and donor questions. And somehow, you’re still expected to lead.In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, host Tom Kelly shares a practical 3-step framework to help you go from chaos to clarity—without needing a big team or MBA.You’ll learn how to:Build your Operating Rhythm – Map out your weekly priorities, roles, and check-ins with a single tool.Standardize Core Processes – Use ChatGPT to turn your repeated tasks into clear, plug-and-play SOPs.Centralize Your Dashboard – Track your most important metrics on one screen (no more 17-tab spreadsheets).Tom also shares exact prompts to use with AI so you can create structure fast—and even tells the story of one small team that slashed burnout and finally got ahead on year-end fundraising.If you’re tired of flying blind and ready to lead with intention, this episode is your step-by-step guide.If you’re ready to lead like a million-dollar nonprofit without burning out, hit play—and don’t forget click the link below for the full AI toolkit.https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

May 29, 20257 min

Ep 78Automate Your Board Updates with AI

Let’s be honest—your board wants more updates, but you’re already drowning in them. You’re juggling donor reports, grant deadlines, team check-ins… and now they want metrics, wins, and a roadmap too? The good news: you don’t need more meetings—you need a smarter system.In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, host Tom Kelly introduces a powerful, time-saving solution: the AI-powered board briefing. You’ll learn how to use ChatGPT to automatically generate monthly board updates in your own voice—updates that are clear, concise, and actually get read. Then, he walks you through how to automate the whole thing using your CRM or email platform so your board feels connected, informed, and energized—without you having to lift a finger each month.Inside, you’ll get Tom’s exact prompts, a proven five-part structure for your briefings, and tips for turning your update into a 2-minute video. Whether you’re a team of ten or flying solo with a volunteer named Carol, this system gives you the consistency and clarity your board craves—plus the breathing room you need.Want better board alignment, more confidence from your leadership, and maybe even a $50,000 matching grant like one of Tom’s clients? It all starts with one smart email.If you’re ready to lead like a million-dollar nonprofit without burning out, hit play—and don’t forget click the link below for the full toolkit.https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

May 28, 20256 min

Ep 77How AI Is Reshaping Fundraising—and What That Means for Your Consultant

Could AI Replace Your Fundraising Consultant?In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly explores a big question: Are there parts of your fundraising consultant's work that AI could do better, faster, and cheaper?You’ll get a side-by-side look at what consultants typically provide—like writing cases for support, crafting donor emails, and leading strategy sessions—and how AI tools like ChatGPT are stepping into that space. Tom shares his “Consultant vs. GPT” framework, real nonprofit examples, and actionable prompts you can try today.Whether you’re working with a great consultant or wondering if there’s a smarter way to handle routine fundraising tasks, this episode will help you rethink where to invest your time and money.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

May 25, 20255 min

Ep 76How to Build a 24/7 Donor Support Bot Without Hiring More Staff

Your inbox is overflowing with donor questions—and it’s 10:47 PM. Sound familiar? Whether they’re asking about receipts, event times, or monthly donations, every unanswered message is a potential missed gift. But here’s the good news: You don’t need to burn out your team—or hire anyone new. You need a smart AI chatbot. In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly walks you through how to build a “Helpful Human Bot” that actually sounds like your team, supports your donors 24/7, and boosts conversions—without adding to your workload. You’ll get the best tools (like Tidio and Intercom), a simple framework to train your bot using ChatGPT, real-world results from a health nonprofit that saw a 19% donation bump, and plug-and-play chatbot prompts to get started today. Plus, you’ll hear how to avoid the biggest chatbot mistake nonprofits make, and how to position yours for maximum impact. Want the full setup guide and ChatGPT scripts? DM “AI” and we’ll send you the Nonprofit AI Growth Playbook.

May 24, 20255 min

Ep 75Why Your Nonprofit Website Isn’t Converting (and How to Fix It)

Let me ask you something—what happens when someone lands on your nonprofit’s website? Do they feel welcomed? Inspired? Clear on what to do next? Or do they get overwhelmed by too many options, too much text, and not enough direction?In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly walks you through exactly how to transform your nonprofit’s website from a confusing digital brochure into a focused, high-converting experience that turns visitors into subscribers, donors, and long-term supporters. If your site has five “Learn More” buttons and zero action, this episode will show you why clarity—not more photos or paragraphs—is the real secret to online growth.You’ll learn the Clear Path Framework—a simple 3-step system to identify your #1 goal, design a homepage that guides visitors (not overwhelms them), and create bold, compelling calls to action that actually get clicked. You’ll also hear:How to choose your Core Path (the one action you want every visitor to take)Why most nonprofit websites are too crowded to convert—and how to fix itWhere your CTAs should go, what they should say, and why size and contrast matterHow to use AI to write your CTAs and layout copy (with examples!)The five-part homepage layout that keeps people scrolling—and taking actionIf your website looks good but doesn’t work well, this episode is going to flip everything around.Plus, stick around for a sneak peek at tomorrow’s episode: How to use AI chatbots on your site to reduce your team’s workload, answer donor questions, and improve your online experience.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

May 22, 20256 min

Ep 74Your 3-Step AI Impact Report Builder

When was the last time you really showed your donors the impact of their gift? Not just a stats-heavy PDF or a vague year-end update—but a vivid, emotional, visual report that made them feel the difference they created. In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly breaks down how to transform your impact reports from forgettable to unforgettable using the power of AI.You’ll discover a 3-step system to create AI-driven, story-based reports that turn dry numbers into emotional donor engagement tools. Learn how to choose the right metrics, pair each with a powerful personal story, and design stunning, branded impact reports in minutes using free and easy-to-use tools like Canva, ChatGPT, and Google Docs. Tom shares real-world examples, plug-and-play prompts, and actionable takeaways so you can stop dumping data and start delivering meaning.If you want to increase donor retention, boost repeat gifts, and build deeper relationships—all while saving time—this episode is for you. You’ll also get tips on how to turn your annual report into a quarterly or even monthly donor touchpoint that keeps your mission top-of-mind year-round.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

May 21, 20256 min

Ep 73The 3-Minute Thank You Video That Triples Donor Retention

How do you thank your donors right now? A quick email? A printed letter? A note on your website?Most nonprofits use words to say thank you. But here’s the problem—those words don’t always create a feeling. And feelings are what drive donors to give again.In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly shares how to create a 3-Minute Thank You Video that’s personal, heartfelt, and proven to increase repeat giving. You’ll learn a simple, three-step framework to help your donors feel truly seen and appreciated—without needing fancy equipment or a polished script.You’ll discover how to:Open with warmth and authenticityShare a short impact story that brings your mission to lifeClose with genuine, personal gratitude that sticksThis is the fastest way to build real donor connection—and it works. You’ll hear a real example of a small nonprofit that used this approach and tripled their second-gift rate.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=trueMake sure to subscribe so you don’t miss tomorrow’s episode: AI-Driven Impact Reports: Show, Don’t Tell, with Just a Few Clicks—a walkthrough on how to create stunning reports that make your donors feel like heroes.And if you haven’t yet, pick up a copy of The Million Dollar Nonprofit on Amazon for the full donor-centered roadmap.Now go film that thank-you video. Your donors are waiting.

May 20, 20256 min

Ep 72How to Make Donors Feel Like VIPs

Gratitude is more than good manners—it’s one of your most powerful donor retention tools. But if your thank-you messages sound like automated receipts or lifeless templates, you’re missing a huge opportunity to deepen relationships.In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly introduces the “Thank You Flywheel”—a simple, scalable, AI-powered system that delivers warm, personalized gratitude without feeling robotic. You'll learn how to automate thank-you touchpoints, write heartfelt messages using AI tools like ChatGPT, and create short, impactful thank-you videos that make donors feel like VIPs.You’ll walk away with three actionable steps to implement today—and hear real examples from nonprofits who doubled their second-gift rate and boosted donor retention just by upgrading their gratitude strategy.If you're ready to make your donors feel seen, appreciated, and inspired to give again, this episode will show you exactly how to do it—without burning out your team.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=trueDon’t forget to grab your copy of The Million Dollar Nonprofit on Amazon for the full roadmap to donor-centered growth.And be sure to subscribe—tomorrow’s episode is all about the 3-minute video script that tripled repeat giving. You don’t want to miss it.

May 19, 20257 min

Ep 71How to Build a Donor Retention Engine That Runs Itself

Does this sound familiar? You launch a campaign, donations roll in, you send a thank-you email… and then? Crickets. The donor disappears. You’re not alone—most nonprofits lose up to 60% of donors after the first gift. But what if there were a simple, automated way to keep them engaged?In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly breaks down the Donor Retention Engine—a 3-step, plug-and-play system that turns one-time donors into lifelong supporters. You’ll learn how to build a powerful 90-day connection sequence, personalize every email using AI (without it sounding robotic), and track donor engagement so you know exactly who’s ready to go deeper.Whether you're a solo founder or a team of ten, this episode gives you the tools, scripts, and AI prompts to create real human connection at scale—and boost donor retention without adding hours to your week.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=trueSubscribe now—tomorrow’s episode is part two: The Thank You Flywheel—how to automate gratitude that still feels real.

May 16, 20256 min

Ep 70Your Next Major Donor Is Already on Your List—Here’s How to Find Them

That $25 gift you just got? It might be the start of a $10,000 relationship—you just don’t know it yet. In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly reveals how to use AI and a simple 3-step system—The Donor Discovery Engine—to identify which donors are ready to level up.You’ll learn:How to analyze your donor list to uncover hidden major-gift potentialAI prompts that instantly spotlight your most promising supportersA proven 3-email sequence that sparks real donor relationshipsPlus, real-world examples from nonprofits that turned $50 donors into $25,000 pledges—without guesswork, cold calls, or data science degrees.If you’re tired of chasing donations and ready to raise smarter, not harder, this episode is your game-changer.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

May 15, 20256 min

Ep 69Host a Virtual Gala Without the Headaches

In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly breaks down how to host a virtual gala without the tech headaches or Zoom fatigue that often derail online events. If you’ve ever hosted a virtual event that felt awkward or dragged on too long, this episode is for you. Tom walks you through a step-by-step system to create a No-Stress Virtual Gala that’s high-energy, smooth, and fun for both you and your guests.You’ll learn how to design a 45-minute event that keeps people engaged, including a welcome energy boost, an emotional mission story, a dynamic main program, and a high-energy fundraising moment. Plus, Tom shares the three key tools you need to keep your event tech simple and seamless: Zoom or StreamYard for broadcasting, CharityAuctionsToday for live auctions, and DonorBooks for donor follow-up.Tom also covers how to keep your audience actively engaged with interactive elements like live polls, shout-outs, and social media contests. He shares a real-world success story from a children’s hospital that raised $78,000 in under an hour by following this framework.By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear plan to host a virtual gala that feels like an experience, not a Zoom call. Plus, Tom offers his full virtual gala script templates and AI prompts to help you create a seamless event. Tune in for actionable tips that will make your next virtual gala a hit!Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

May 14, 20255 min

Ep 68Your 30-Day Plan to Turn Donors Into Lifelong Supporters

What actually happens after a donor gives to your nonprofit? If your answer is “not much,” you’re not alone—but you’re also leaving serious donor loyalty (and revenue) on the table. In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly walks you through his plug-and-play system for building a 30-day, fully automated donor nurture sequence—powered by AI.You’ll learn how to write warm welcome emails, share meaningful impact stories, and invite deeper engagement—all without adding more to your plate. Using simple prompts in ChatGPT and your favorite email platform (like DonorBooks, ConvertKit, or Mailchimp), you’ll create a donor journey that runs on autopilot… and actually works.Tom shares real-world results, step-by-step email breakdowns, and the exact prompts you can copy today to get started. Whether you’re a team of 10 or a solo founder, this episode gives you the tools to transform one-time donors into lifelong supporters—without writing a single email from scratch.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

May 13, 20255 min

Ep 67How to Launch a Fundraiser in Just One Hour

What if you could launch an entire fundraising campaign—in the next 60 minutes? No joke. No graphic designer. No professional writer. No team of ten. Just you, your mission, and a few powerful AI prompts.In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly unveils the One-Hour AI Fundraiser—a simple, repeatable system that shows you how to plan, write, design, and publish a micro-campaign using AI tools like ChatGPT, Canva, and Midjourney. You’ll get the exact prompts to generate campaign copy, social media content, donor emails, thank-you messages, and even a fully functional donation page. It’s a step-by-step roadmap designed to save you time, eliminate the overwhelm, and get money flowing in fast.Whether you need $2,500 for school supplies or $10K for a new program, this episode breaks it down into 5 actionable steps:Define your goal and hookGenerate high-converting emailsCreate attention-grabbing social postsBuild a clean, effective donation pageAutomate donor thank-yous that inspire repeat giftsPlus, you’ll hear how one small nonprofit raised over $6,000 in just 3 days—using this exact framework with only one staffer.By the time the episode ends, you’ll be ready to launch a campaign today—and wondering why you didn’t do this sooner. If you’ve ever said, “We should run a fundraiser, but we’re slammed…” this is the shortcut you've been waiting for.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=trueDon’t forget to subscribe—because tomorrow’s episode shows you what to do after the fundraiser ends: how to nurture donors for 30 days using AI and automation. It's fundraising on autopilot.

May 12, 20255 min

Ep 66Why AI Will Revolutionize Your Grant Writing

Tell me if this sounds familiar: You finally sit down to write that big grant proposal. The budget’s solid. The programs are strong. But the words? The story? That’s where everything stalls. In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, host Tom Kelly helps you break through the writing block—once and for all.You’ll get one simple AI prompt that helps you draft 80% of your proposal in just 10 minutes. It’s part of a 3-step Grant Clarity Framework designed to help nonprofit leaders organize their ideas, tell their story with impact, and mirror the values of any funder—without writing from scratch.You’ll learn:The exact prompt to turn your messy notes into a clear, compelling summaryHow to “language match” your grant to a funder’s priorities using just 3 phrases from their websiteHow to pre-answer common application questions with ChatGPT so you're never starting from zero againTom shares real-world examples, including how one nonprofit used these exact prompts to submit a winning $50K grant proposal—in half the time. You’ll walk away with practical steps to save hours on every application, plus a system you can reuse all year.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=trueThis episode is brought to you by DonorBooks and CharityAuctionsToday—tools that help you save time, raise more, and grow with fewer resources. Ready to finally make grant writing easier? Hit play and let’s go.

May 11, 20255 min

Ep 653 Ways AI Can Instantly Upgrade Your Nonprofit Graphics

Be honest—how many times have you stared at a blank Canva template, endlessly dragging a logo around, testing out three fonts, and still thinking, “Why does this look like a school project?” If design tasks eat up your time and confidence, this episode is for you.In today’s episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, host Tom Kelly hands you the shortcut every small nonprofit needs: a design system powered by AI that’s fast, simple, and seriously effective—even if you have zero design experience.Tom breaks down his 3-Part AI Design Stack that’s helping nonprofit teams create scroll-stopping, on-brand graphics in minutes:Tool #1: ChatGPT for Copywriting – Use prompts that give you ready-to-drop-in headlines, captions, and calls-to-action for auction graphics, thank-you posts, and more. No more blank screens or weak messaging.Tool #2: Canva’s Magic Design (and tools like Kittl & Designs.ai) – Learn how to feed your copy into these AI tools and instantly generate flyers, logos, social media slides, and even animated posts. No design team required.Tool #3: AI-Powered Brand Kits – Discover how to set up your brand colors, fonts, and logos once and have them auto-applied to every design—keeping your visuals polished and professional.You’ll also hear a real-world example of how a small arts nonprofit used this exact process to promote a last-minute pop-up event and sold out in two days—all without a designer or marketing team.If your team ever says, “We just don’t have time to make it look good,” this episode will prove that with the right tools (and the right prompts), you absolutely can—and in way less time than you think.Stick around for:3 action steps to implement todayThe prompt library you’ll want to save foreverA sneak peek at tomorrow’s episode: “Don’t Write That Grant Proposal Yet: Use This AI Prompt First”Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true🎧 Subscribe now—because design doesn’t have to be your bottleneck anymore.

May 10, 20255 min

Ep 64How to Build an AI-Powered Lead Magnet for Your Nonprofit

If someone visits your website, scrolls your social, or opens your email—do they see something they actually want? Not just a “donate now” button. But a resource they can download, learn from, and share? That’s called a lead magnet. And if you’re like most nonprofits, you don’t have one yet. Which is why your email list is growing like molasses.In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly shows you how to fix that—in under 30 minutes—with an AI-powered lead magnet you can build today. No team needed. No tech headaches. Just a practical, high-value resource that helps you grow your list and connect with people who care.You’ll learn:What a lead magnet really is—and why it matters more than everThe 3-step “Lead Magnet Loop” system you can repeat again and againHow to use ChatGPT to brainstorm, write, and format your lead magnet in minutesQuick design tips using Canva and AI tools—no graphic designer requiredHow to build your delivery flow, from opt-in to nurture emails, with actual promptsA real nonprofit success story that added 462 subscribers and raised donations within 30 daysWhether you’re building your list from scratch or want to replace that outdated PDF from 2017, this episode will help you create a resource your supporters actually want—while saving you hours of time.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=trueSubscribe now and don’t miss tomorrow’s follow-up episode: No Designer? No Problem: Create Stunning Graphics with AI in Seconds.

May 9, 20255 min

Ep 63The 3-Page Nonprofit Website That Actually Gets Donations

Does your nonprofit website inspire action—or confuse visitors? In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly introduces the Fast Funnel Framework: a 3-page website strategy designed to turn traffic into donors. Learn how to build a simple, high-converting funnel using just a landing page, thank-you page, and automated email sequence. No tech team needed—just smart messaging, a clear call-to-action, and a few ChatGPT prompts.You’ll discover:How to write landing page copy that hooks visitors in 5 secondsThe role of a thank-you page video in boosting engagementA 3-part follow-up email series that builds trust and drives donationsReal nonprofit case studies and resultsThe exact prompts to create your funnel in under a weekendWhether you're using ConvertKit, DonorBooks, Notion, or Typeform, this episode walks you step-by-step through building a donor journey that works 24/7—even while you sleep. Plus, Tom shares how to grab his full Nonprofit AI Growth Playbook with templates, swipe copy, and automations to make your funnel even faster.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

May 8, 20255 min

Ep 62Why Most Auction Descriptions Suck—And How AI Fixes Them Instantly

Let’s be real: most auction items don’t get ignored because they’re boring. They get ignored because the descriptions suck. You can have courtside tickets, a luxury villa in Maui, or a once-in-a-lifetime experience—and still get crickets if your copy reads like a Craigslist listing.In this episode, Tom Kelly breaks down exactly why your auction descriptions are falling flat—and how AI can help you write emotional, exciting, and high-converting listings in minutes. This is not about adding fluff. It’s about tapping into The Experience, The Emotion, and The Urgency behind every item so your bidders can actually picture themselves there.Tom walks you through his proven 3-step system—The Auction Copy Engine—to help you go from flat to fantastic:Write with Feeling, Not FactsCreate a Template and Batch It FastRepurpose Descriptions for Social Media and EmailYou’ll learn practical ChatGPT prompts you can use today, how to batch an entire auction catalog in under an hour, and why great item copy isn’t just filler—it’s a fundraising asset.He also shares a real-life example of a nonprofit that rewrote 42 auction items using AI and saw a 43% increase in performance for the emotionally written items—raising over $17,000 in a single auction.Plus, you’ll get:A sneak peek at Tom’s favorite repurposing promptHow to turn descriptions into teaser posts and headlinesA preview of tomorrow’s episode: Fast Funnels—The 3-Page Website That Converts Donors While You SleepIf you want more bids, higher engagement, and less stress—this is your episode. Whether you're running an auction on CharityAuctionsToday or another platform, the right words can mean the difference between “unsold” and “sold out.”Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

May 7, 20255 min

Ep 61The AI Bidding Assistant: How to Use Bots to Boost Auction Revenue

Imagine this: your online charity auction is live, bids are rolling in—but some supporters are hesitating. What if you had an assistant that gently nudges them at just the right moment? In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, host Tom Kelly reveals how to set up an AI Bidding Assistant using simple tools like CharityAuctionsToday and ChatGPT—no coding or tech expertise required.Whether you're running a silent auction, virtual fundraiser, or hybrid gala, this episode shows you how to automate personalized bidder outreach to boost engagement, drive repeat bids, and raise more money without the stress. Discover how to set up smart triggers, write compelling outbid alerts, and schedule mid-auction and final-hour reminders that keep donors coming back.You’ll learn:What an AI Bidding Assistant is (and why it works)How to use triggers like outbid notifications, bid inactivity, and auction close countdownsChatGPT prompts that help you write effective emails and texts in secondsReal-world examples from nonprofits that doubled bidder activityThree quick steps to launch your AI-powered auction strategy todayIf you're ready to raise more money with less manual follow-up, this is your blueprint. Perfect for busy nonprofit teams, fundraising consultants, and anyone managing a charity auction.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=trueDon’t miss this powerful tool that helps you fundraise smarter—not harder.

May 6, 20255 min

Ep 60The Zero-Stress Charity Auction Blueprint

Tired of chaotic, time-sucking charity auctions? In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly reveals how to run a $10,000+ auction with minimal effort using smart systems, AI tools, and the powerful features inside CharityAuctionsToday. Learn how to set up your auction in a day, recruit a promo squad, automate reminders, and maximize last-minute bids. You’ll also get exact ChatGPT prompts, social media scripts, and real-world examples from small teams that crushed their fundraising goals. If you want to raise big money without burning out, this is the episode for you.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

May 5, 20255 min

Ep 59How to Run a $10K Auction with Zero Effort

Think running a charity auction means chaos, clipboards, and constant emails? Think again. In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, host Tom Kelly shares the exact blueprint for hosting a $10,000+ online auction with minimal stress and zero overwhelm—even if you’re a small team. You’ll learn how to set up an auction in a day, use AI prompts to write irresistible item descriptions, automate bidder reminders, and create last-minute buzz that drives bids sky-high.Tom breaks down a 4-step system using CharityAuctionsToday, the platform he recommends for stress-free, high-performing auctions. Discover how one client raised over $11,000 without paid ads, how to turn your board into a promo squad, and why automation is the secret to scaling your impact without burning out.Build your auction fastRecruit supporters to spread the wordAutomate outbid alerts and remindersBoost final-hour bidding frenzy with AI toolsPlus, get free prompts, templates, and tips you can use today—even if you’re just testing the waters.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

May 4, 20255 min

Ep 59The AI Auction Blueprint: How to Maximize Bids Without Losing Your Mind

Ever feel like your nonprofit auction turns into a full-blown circus act? One minute you're fielding bidder questions, the next you're rebooting someone's laptop, all while juggling spreadsheets and trying not to sweat through your branded polo. Sound familiar?What if it didn’t have to be that way?In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, host Tom Kelly unveils the AI Auction Blueprint—a simple, step-by-step system to help you run smoother, more profitable charity auctions without burning out. Whether you’ve hosted dozens of events or are prepping for your first online auction, this episode is your roadmap to maximum bids with minimal stress.You’ll learn:Why most nonprofit auctions are inefficient—and how to fix that with automationThe exact tools and AI prompts Tom uses to write compelling item descriptions, drive bidder engagement, and send automated remindersHow to schedule your entire auction communication flow from launch to close using platforms like ConvertKit or DonorBooksWhat mid-event strategies actually boost bids (hint: it’s not shouting on social media)How one organization raised $18,000 in a weekend with no in-person event or live auctioneerTom also shares his go-to ChatGPT prompts to create irresistible auction listings, outbid alerts, and social posts that generate real FOMO. Plus, he breaks down how CharityAuctionsToday—the platform behind over millions of funds raised—makes it easy to build your auction in under 10 minutes.Want to stop running chaotic auctions and start running profitable ones? This episode gives you everything you need to create a stress-free system that works even when you're offline.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true🎧 And don’t forget to subscribe—because tomorrow’s episode shows you how to host a $10K auction with almost no staff.Let’s build your AI-powered auction—and get your weekend back.

May 3, 20255 min

Ep 585 ChatGPT Prompts to Write Your Next Fundraising Email in 5 Minutes

Blank screen. Blinking cursor. No idea what to say.Sound familiar?In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly shares 5 proven ChatGPT prompts that will help you write your next fundraising email in under 5 minutes—without overthinking, overwriting, or burning out.Whether you’re sending an urgent campaign blast, re-engaging lapsed donors, or just want to celebrate a recent win, these prompts will help you write faster, more human emails that raise real money.ChatGPT Prompt Highlight:“Write a fundraising email that tells the story of a single mom named Jasmine who got back on her feet through our job training program. Make it personal, emotional, and end with a clear ask to donate.”You’ll learn:The 5 email types every fundraiser needsWhat makes a story-driven appeal convertHow one listener raised $5,000 in 3 days using Prompt #1Simple steps to build your own “Donor Emails, Fast” swipe fileWhy done is better than perfectGrab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=trueBrought to you by DonorBooks and CharityAuctionsToday—smarter, faster fundraising software for nonprofits ready to scale.

May 2, 20255 min

Ep 57Why Most Donor Journeys Fail (and How to Build One That Actually Works)

What if your donor journey felt more like Disney than a dull tax receipt? Most nonprofits lose supporters in the first 48 hours because they treat donations like transactions—not the beginning of a relationship. In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly breaks down how to build a donor experience that sparks emotion, builds trust, and keeps people giving again and again.You’ll learn his 3-part “Donor Story Arc”—a proven framework that turned one nonprofit’s email series into a loyalty engine, increasing second gifts by 41% and monthly upgrades by 25%. Best part? They used ChatGPT and wrote it all in a day.If you’re ready to transform one-time givers into lifelong supporters, this episode is your roadmap. Packed with prompts, real-world examples, and instant takeaways you can implement today.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

May 1, 20255 min

Ep 56Why Your Nonprofit Needs a Sales Funnel

Let’s be real—“sales funnel” sounds like a corporate buzzword nonprofits should avoid. But here’s the truth: you already have a funnel. It’s just invisible—and probably unintentional. Every post, email, and donation form is part of a journey. In this episode, Tom Kelly breaks down how to build a simple, ethical, high-converting donor journey using his 4-part Donor Flow Framework: Awareness, Engagement, Action, Advocacy. You’ll learn how to map your funnel, use AI tools like ChatGPT to create content fast, and automate follow-ups with platforms like ConvertKit or DonorBooks. Plus, hear a real-life case study of a small nonprofit that raised $12K from brand-new donors—without ads. Whether you're just getting started or want to improve what’s already in place, this episode gives you practical steps and prompts to turn casual followers into committed supporters.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

Apr 30, 20255 min

Ep 550 Budget, $100K Raised: How One Tiny Nonprofit Used AI to Win Big

There’s a myth in the nonprofit world: that you need a huge team, a massive budget, and expensive tech to raise real money. But today, I’m showing you the real story of how a tiny, three-person nonprofit in North Carolina raised over $100,000 in just a few months—with zero marketing spend, no consultants, and no full-time development director. All they had was a Google Sheet of past supporters, a willingness to learn, and the power of free AI tools.In this episode, I’ll walk you step-by-step through how they used ChatGPT to create an entire donor campaign in one afternoon, built a simple lead magnet that added over 400 new supporters, and personalized their outreach to bring in major gifts—without burnout or budget stress. You’ll hear the exact prompts they used, the tools they relied on, and how you can replicate their system starting today. Small doesn’t mean weak. Small means scrappy, smart, and scalable. If you’ve ever thought your nonprofit was too small to make a big impact, this episode will change your mind—and your results.

Apr 29, 20255 min

Ep 54How to Build a Donor Journey They Can’t Resist

What if your donor communications were as binge-worthy as a Netflix series?In today’s episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly breaks down The Netflix Strategy — a proven system to transform your donor journey into an irresistible, sequential experience using AI tools like ChatGPT, ConvertKit, and DonorBooks.You’ll learn how to map out “donor seasons” that walk supporters through your story, build cliffhangers that keep them emotionally hooked, and automate it all so that every new donor gets a personalized, captivating experience without extra work.Real-world results? A small arts nonprofit boosted email opens to 61% and donor retention by 37% — just by thinking in episodes, not one-time blasts.Inside, you’ll get swipeable ChatGPT prompts, a step-by-step action plan, and the behind-the-scenes system Tom uses to turn new donors into loyal fans (and fans into lifelong champions).Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=trueReady to build a donor experience they can’t stop bingeing? Let’s dive in.

Apr 27, 20256 min

Ep 53Monthly Giving on Autopilot: How to Build Predictable Revenue Without the Stress

What if your nonprofit could wake up to dozens of new donations every month—without launching a new campaign every five minutes?In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly breaks down exactly how to set up a simple, high-impact monthly giving program that runs on autopilot.You'll learn why monthly donors are the real MVPs of nonprofit fundraising, why you don’t need a fancy "donor club" or new website to get started, and the three key elements you actually do need:A simple, human-centered offerA smart, automated welcome sequenceMonthly proof-of-impact pings that keep donors connected for the long haulTom also shares actionable ChatGPT prompts, quick wins you can set up in an afternoon, and real-world examples of nonprofits who boosted their donor retention from 68% to 91%—without extra staff time or expensive consultants.If you’re ready to build steady, predictable, and scalable monthly revenue without the stress, this episode is your blueprint.Set it. Forget it. And watch your impact grow—on autopilot.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

Apr 26, 20255 min

Ep 52Stop Chasing Donors: Use AI to Attract High-Intent Givers

What if your next donor didn’t come from a cold email, a social post, or a gala table—but from Google?In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly shares how to stop chasing donors and start attracting high-intent givers who already believe in your mission. Using AI tools like ChatGPT, small nonprofit teams can now create systems that do the heavy lifting—without burning out staff or wasting ad dollars.You’ll learn:Why interruption marketing is failing and what to do insteadHow to use AI to create searchable, donor-centered contentThe easiest lead magnet you can create this week (and why it works)What to include in your welcome email sequence to build trust fastHow one small nonprofit gained 317 new leads and 29 monthly donors in 6 weeks—without a single cold callThis isn’t theory. It’s a roadmap to build an inbound fundraising system that works while you sleep.Plus, Tom drops exact ChatGPT prompts you can copy/paste today, real examples from nonprofits already seeing results, and three action steps to start your shift from chasing to attracting.If you’re ready to build momentum with less grind and more magnetism, hit play.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

Apr 25, 20256 min

Ep 51Why I Ditched Spreadsheets for DonorBooks and Never Looked Back

Does your CRM feel more like a burden than a solution? In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly goes deep on the donor CRM he actually uses every day—DonorBooks.Designed for lean teams with big goals, DonorBooks isn’t just a database—it’s your behind-the-scenes operations assistant. Tom breaks down how this powerful yet intuitive CRM helps nonprofits:Tag donors based on behavior, not just data points View full donor timelines for context-rich conversations Use plug-and-play automations (powered by ChatGPT!) to save time and boost giving You’ll hear exactly how to turn donor activity into smart, timely outreach—and walk away with actionable ChatGPT prompts, automation tips, and the 3 things you can do today to make your CRM start working for you.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

Apr 24, 20256 min

Ep 503 Nonprofit CRMs That Actually Talk to Each Other (and Save You Hours)

Are you juggling 14 tabs just to keep your nonprofit running? Email in one app. Donors in another. Events in a spreadsheet. Sound familiar? In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly reveals three game-changing CRMs built for small nonprofits that actually talk to each other—saving you hours and helping you raise more with less.Learn how tools like DonorBooks, Kindful, and Bloomerang can:Sync with your favorite email and event toolsAutomate donor follow-ups using AITrack behavior and boost retentionEliminate spreadsheet chaosPlus, get proven ChatGPT prompts for writing donor emails, automating re-engagement, and building a modern fundraising tech stack.Perfect for EDs, fundraisers, and nonprofit marketers tired of data silos and ready for automation.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=trueGrab The Million Dollar Nonprofit on Amazon.

Apr 23, 20256 min

Ep 49Beyond Mailchimp: Smarter Donor Emails for Nonprofits Using Instantly.ai and ConvertKit

If your nonprofit is still using Mailchimp for donor emails—but you’re struggling with low engagement, no segmentation, and manual follow-up—you need to hear this.In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, nonprofit coach Tom Kelly shares how small nonprofit teams are upgrading their email marketing using Instantly.ai and ConvertKit—two powerful tools built for automated, personalized donor communication.You’ll learn:Why Mailchimp no longer works for modern nonprofitsHow to re-engage lapsed donors with AI-generated, human-sounding emailsHow to automate donor welcome series, follow-ups, and segmentation with ConvertKitA real example of a $5,000 gift from one re-engagement emailHow to pair Instantly + ConvertKit for a complete nonprofit email systemPlus, you’ll get proven ChatGPT prompts for donor emails, tips for creating donor tags that make sense, and three action steps to get started today.Whether you’re a small team or a solo fundraiser, this episode gives you the nonprofit email marketing playbook you’ve been missing.Ready to build smarter email systems and stronger donor relationships? Listen now.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

Apr 22, 20256 min

Ep 48The 30-Minute Email Campaign That Raises Real Donations

Can you really plan, write, and automate a full email campaign in under 30 minutes?In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly walks you through a proven 3-step system to turn your inbox into a donation engine—without stress, burnout, or last-minute writing marathons.You’ll learn how to use AI tools like ChatGPT and ConvertKit to define your campaign goal, generate high-converting emails in seconds, and schedule the entire sequence to run on autopilot. This isn’t theory—it’s the same framework that helped one small nonprofit raise $4,200 in five days from a list of under 1,000 subscribers.Whether you’re fundraising for an event, a matching gift deadline, or just trying to stay consistent with donors, you’ll get copy-and-paste prompts, scheduling tips, and automation hacks to make your emails work harder—so you don’t have to.Plus, discover how tools like DonorBooks and CharityAuctionsToday help you track results and scale what works, even with a tiny team.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by email campaigns or stuck staring at a blank screen, this is your shortcut to more impact, more donations, and more ease.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

Apr 21, 20255 min

Ep 47The AI Welcome Sequence: Automate Donor Retention & Turn First-Time Gifts into Lifelong Support

Most nonprofits pour energy into getting that first donation—then ghost the donor right after. In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly reveals the exact AI-powered welcome sequence that turns first-time givers into lifelong supporters—automatically.You’ll get the full breakdown of the 3-part sequence, including ChatGPT prompts to help you write thank-you emails, impact stories, and warm invitations to monthly giving. You’ll learn how to set it all up in tools like ConvertKit or your CRM—so every new donor feels seen, valued, and connected from day one.Whether you’re running solo or managing a team, this system is simple to launch and powerful for retention. One small nonprofit even doubled their second gift rate using this exact strategy.Plus, hear how to segment donor messages with DonorBooks and personalize every email without writing each one from scratch.If you're looking for nonprofit donor retention tips, AI automations, or an easy way to build deeper donor relationships, this is your must-listen guide.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

Apr 19, 20256 min

Ep 46How We Used ChatGPT to Raise $50,000—No Gala Required

Can ChatGPT actually help your nonprofit raise real money? In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly reveals the exact five AI prompts that helped generate over $50,000 in donations—without a gala, without cold calls, and without a big team.You’ll learn how to use ChatGPT to write high-converting fundraising emails, engaging auction item descriptions, donor thank-you messages, and social media stories that drive action. Whether you’re a small nonprofit with limited staff or just getting started with AI tools, this episode will give you copy-and-paste prompts you can use today to boost donor engagement and increase revenue.Plus, discover how to segment donor lists using Donor Books and create higher-performing fundraising events with CharityAuctionsToday.If you're looking for nonprofit fundraising tips, AI for nonprofits, or easy ways to automate donor communication, this is your must-listen guide.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

Apr 17, 20257 min

Ep 45The Invisible Fundraiser: How AI Works Behind the Scenes While You Sleep

AI Was Raising Money While I SleptWhat if your most effective fundraiser never needed a desk, never burned out, and worked all night long? In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly pulls back the curtain on “The Invisible Fundraiser”—a smart, automated system powered by AI tools that helps nonprofits bring in donations, follow up with leads, and build stronger donor relationships 24/7.You’ll discover how to:Use ChatGPT to write donor emails, thank-you notes, and appeal letters in secondsPersonalize outreach at scale without extra staffCreate frictionless giving experiences that convert midnight inspiration into actionAutomate your follow-ups, email sequences, and auction pages with simple toolsTom also shares a real-life case study of a small nonprofit that raised $5,000 in just two weeks—without full-time staff—by putting the Invisible Fundraiser system to work.Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=true

Apr 16, 20257 min

Ep 44The Fastest Way to Fundraise: 1 Hour. Big Impact. Zero Burnout.

What if you could raise thousands of dollars in just one hour without the stress of months-long planning or your team burning out? It’s not too good to be true! On this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly breaks down his “Flash Fundraising Flywheel,” a 3-step framework to execute a high-energy, one-hour AI-powered fundraiser. Discover how to:Use AI tools like Instantly.ai, ChatGPT, and DonorBooks to streamline promotions, scripts, and follow-ups. Hype up your community and spark excitement with limited-time matches and giveaways. Automate post-event thank-yous and donor follow-ups to maximize engagement and impact. Perfect for small teams and busy nonprofits, this actionable strategy will help you scale your impact with less stress. Tune in now and start raising more with AI! Grab my free AI growth playbook here -https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/tuv7F75UH41Y7on2cqI9?notrack=truehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/

Apr 15, 20255 min

Ep 43How to Automate 80% of Your Nonprofit with AI

Feeling overwhelmed by endless to-dos? You’re not alone. Most nonprofit leaders juggle admin work, emails, events, and everything else under the sun. But here’s the good news: 80% of that busywork could be automated! In this episode of The Million Dollar Nonprofit, Tom Kelly shares how AI and automation can take your nonprofit from surviving to thriving. Discover the 3-step AI Growth Engine framework (Attract, Nurture, Convert) and learn practical, real-world tips to save hours each week while scaling your impact. From AI-powered cold outreach tools to email sequences that build trust on autopilot, you’ll leave with actionable steps to streamline operations and focus on your mission. 🎧 Tune in, transform your hustle into a scalable system, and shift from overwhelmed to unstoppable. 👉 DM “A-I” to get Tom’s playbook filled with ready-to-use templates and tools for nonprofits.https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/

Apr 14, 20256 min

Ep 42Transforming Donor Retention with the Donor Experience Matrix

What if your nonprofit could keep donors engaged year after year, regardless of your team’s capacity? Katie Mendez, founder of Built to Raise, joins us to unpack her game-changing Donor Experience (DX) Matrix, designed for individual giving programs.Katie shares:A breakdown of the four essential pillars of the DX Matrix (Thank, Share Impact, Engage, Solicit) and why they matter. How nonprofits can provide thoughtful, personalized donor experiences—even with limited resources. Actionable tips for structuring a donor experience plan that builds deeper connections to your mission. If your organization is struggling with donor retention or looking to elevate your fundraising strategy, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Check out her free downloadable here - https://www.builttoraise.com/donorexperiencematrixConnect with her on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-mendez/

Apr 8, 202524 min

Ep 41Automated Fundraising Strategies Boost Nonprofit Donations with AI

Learn how to leverage data and analytics to measure your organization's success, identify areas for improvement, and communicate your impact more effectively to stakeholders. Data insights allow you to assess operational efficiency, monitor program outcomes, and make informed decisions that align with your strategic goals. Whether you're navigating fundraising challenges, adopting new technologies, or fostering community engagement, these tools and strategies can help you stay ahead in an evolving nonprofit landscape.By creating a culture of data-driven decision-making, your organization can respond proactively to changes and opportunities. Fundraising efforts can be optimized by identifying trends and donor behaviors, while operational workflows can be streamlined using tools designed to enhance productivity. Furthermore, the integration of analytics helps foster transparency, which builds trust with stakeholders and the broader community.Empower your team and strengthen your mission by implementing practical solutions tailored to your organization's needs. Investing in training for staff, adopting user-friendly software, and setting clear metrics for success can ensure long-term sustainability and growth. With the right approach, your nonprofit can maximize its impact, inspiring both your stakeholders and the communities you serve.

Apr 7, 20259 min

Ep 39How Storytelling Drives Nonprofit Success: Crafting Powerful Narratives

In this episode I sat down with Mark Harvey. Mark shares his family's inspiring philanthropic journey through their Family Foundation. He reflects on the values his father instilled in him, the power of generosity, and the importance of engaging the next generation in giving. We also dive into also how storytelling plays a key role in raising awareness and funds for causes and why building strong relationships is at the heart of effective philanthropy.Key Takeaways:- The Family Foundation was created as part of Mark's father's estate plan.- Money is a tool for change, guided by gratitude and generosity.- Philanthropy is about more than giving—it’s about building relationships.- Storytelling is essential for engaging donors and raising awareness.- Mark’s children are learning the importance of giving back from a young age.- A strong community can amplify the impact of a cause.Watch now to learn how you can build a lasting legacy of generosity!Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights on nonprofit success!

Feb 25, 202537 min

Ep 38How Nonprofits Can Boost Fundraising & Retain Donors Effectively

In this episode, Tom Kelly and Haley Cooper explore the keys to effective fundraising and donor retention. They discuss why many nonprofits rush fundraising efforts without a strategy, how follow-up communication is often overlooked, and why shifting from event-based fundraising to relationship-building is crucial for long-term success.Key Takeaways:✔ Donor retention is essential for sustainability.✔ Major gifts require intentionality and relationship-building.✔ Transparency and communication improve donor stewardship.✔ Social media strategies should be tailored to your audience.✔ Emerging nonprofits should focus on depth over breadth in donor relationships.✔ A compelling case for support and team alignment are foundational to success.Whether you're an established nonprofit or just getting started, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you grow your impact!Check out Haley and the Savvy Fundraiser https://www.linkedin.com/in/haley-cooper-cfre/https://thesavvyfundraiser.kit.com/conversationhttps://thesavvyfundraiser.com/https://a.co/d/4VYfhIyConnect with Tom - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/Want to bring Tom to your next event? Contact us at: [email protected]

Feb 18, 202533 min

Ep 37The Power of Data: Driving Growth in Nonprofits

Tom Kelly is joined by Josh Birkholz to discuss the evolving landscape of nonprofits, focusing on trends, data analysis, donor engagement, and the powerful role of family foundations in shaping the future of philanthropy. They explore the challenges nonprofits face with declining donor numbers, the importance of trust, and how to effectively engage the next generation in charitable giving.Josh and Tom share their expertise on leveraging data to grow donor bases, fostering collaboration between nonprofits, and shifting the focus from problems to solutions to regain public trust. The discussion also delves into the joy of giving, the significance of legacy-building, and how to engage children in philanthropy to instill values and create a purpose-driven life.Key Takeaways:- Nonprofits must stay updated on giving trends to thrive.- Data analysis can help nonprofits grow their donor base.- Family foundations are increasingly popular for structured giving.- Engaging children in philanthropy fosters a sense of purpose and values.- Building trust in nonprofits is critical to restore public confidence.- Digital tools and storytelling are key to enhancing donor engagement.- Planning charitable activities and creating a legacy of giving strengthens community impact.Check out Joshua and BWFhttp://www.bwf.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuabirkholz/

Feb 11, 202535 min

Ep 36The Secret to Free Nonprofit Support: Partnering with Universities

In this episode of the Million Dollar Nonprofit Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Elizabeth Searing, a nonprofit management professor, and Salman Bin Habib, a second-year PhD student, to explore a game-changing opportunity for nonprofits—collaborating with universities to strengthen impact, build capacity, and access valuable resources for free or at a low cost.We break down:- Common misconceptions about working with universities (and why most nonprofits aren’t leveraging them).- How to tap into internships, fellowships, research projects, and strategic support that can elevate your nonprofit.- Real-world examples of nonprofits benefiting from university partnerships, including projects with Charity Navigator.- Practical strategies to find the right university programs aligned with your mission—whether you’re a small nonprofit or scaling up.- The perfect stage for nonprofits to approach universities and maximize the partnership.You’ll leave with actionable steps to start leveraging academic partnerships today!Connect with Elizabeth - https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethsearing/Connect with Tom - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/

Feb 4, 202539 min

Ep 35Why Your Nonprofit’s Emails Aren’t Working (And What to Do Instead!)

We dive into the power of email fundraising with nonprofit email marketing expert Katelyn Baughan. Most nonprofits aren't sending enough emails—or worse, they're not optimizing them for engagement and donations. Some topics we cover:- How to audit your email strategy to uncover hidden opportunities- The biggest mistakes nonprofits make with email marketing- How to segment your list for better engagement and higher donations- A/B testing subject lines to increase open rates- Using UTM tracking to measure success down to the button clickKey takeaway: Want to turn your nonprofit’s email list into a high-performing fundraising machine? Katelyn's expert tips will show you exactly how to build an email strategy that generates consistent donations over time.Connect with Katelyn Baughan on LinkedIn for more insights - https://www.linkedin.com/in/katelyn-baughan/Connect with Tom - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/Get your FREE Email Audit Guide - https://katelynbaughan.com/email-audit-guide/Want to bring Tom to your next event? Contact us at: [email protected]

Jan 28, 202527 min

Ep 34How to Leverage Digital Marketing to Drive Donations

We explore how to leverage digital marketing to fuel the growth of your nonprofit. You’ll learn practical strategies for maximizing your online presence, from building an effective social media strategy to creating engaging content that drives donations. We’ll discuss the importance of email marketing, personalization, and segmentation to boost engagement with your donors.You’ll also get actionable tips on improving your nonprofit's SEO, using Google Ad Grants to drive traffic, and harnessing the power of paid advertising through Google and Facebook ads. By the end of the episode, you'll have a clear understanding of how to implement these strategies to expand your reach, engage more supporters, and increase donations.Whether you're new to digital marketing or looking to refine your efforts, this episode offers the tools you need to help your nonprofit thrive in the digital age.Connect with Tom - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/Want to bring Tom to your next event? Contact us at: [email protected]

Jan 22, 202512 min

Ep 33Why Understanding the Nonprofit Life Cycle is Key to Scaling Impact

I sit down with Amy Varga, a seasoned professional with 30 years of experience and the President of The Varga Group, who has dedicated her career to helping mission-driven organizations succeed. Together, we explore the Nonprofit Life Cycle Framework—a powerful tool that outlines the predictable stages of growth every nonprofit encounters. Whether you're leading a startup organization or managing a mature nonprofit, Amy explains how this framework helps organizations overcome challenges, strategically scale, and build capacity at every stage.Learn actionable insights like:- What the Nonprofit Life Cycle Framework is and why it’s crucial for growth.- The unique challenges and priorities at each stage: startup, growth, maturity, and decline.- How smaller nonprofits can outshine larger ones with high-touch donor stewardship.- Why diversifying revenue streams is essential for scaling beyond grassroots fundraising.- Practical tips to align your fundraising plan with your nonprofit's current stage.The Varga Group consultants are experts in capital campaigns, fundraising training, retreat facilitation and leadership coaching. Check them out https://thevargagroup.com/Connect with Amy Varga on LinkedIn for more insights - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyvarga/Nonprofit Organizational Life Cycles White Paper - https://thevargagroup.com/2020/04/25/nonprofit-organizational-life-cycles-white-paper/Want to bring Tom to your next event? Contact us at: [email protected] US AThttps://realtomkelly.com/FOLLOW US ON SOCIALStay connected and get the latest updates on our social media channels!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realtomkellyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/realtomkelly#NonprofitGrowth #FundraisingTips #Leadership #ScalingNonprofits

Jan 14, 202533 min

Ep 32How to Create a Case for Support: Level Up Your Nonprofit Storytelling and Fundraising

Today, I sat down with Emily to explore the art and strategy behind crafting a compelling Case for Support—a powerful tool to formalize your nonprofit's storytelling, align your team, and elevate your fundraising efforts. Together, we discuss how to transform founder stories into scalable narratives, build consistency across your organization, and create lasting donor connections.Topics covered: - The difference between storytelling and a Case for Support- The 5 key elements every nonprofit needs to include- How to gather impactful data and testimonials- Tips for nonprofits in growth phases to level upLinks & Resources:Want help directly from Emily? Check out teenyBIG - https://www.teenybig.com/Connect with Emily - https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-taylor-teenybig/Connect with Tom - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkelly5/Emily's free resource - https://mailchi.mp/teenybig/strengthenstoriesWant to bring Tom to your next event? Contact us at: [email protected]

Jan 7, 202528 min