Advice for early career professionals: Technical chops matter, but they’re not the whole game. Reliability and being someone people actually want to work with can get you just as far—and sometimes farther.
The Generosity Report by Neon One highlights donor behavior, emphasizing that maintaining donor relationships increases giving. Collaborating with other nonprofits enhances overall donations, while increased donor engagement, through events and communication, correlates with higher contributions.
I recommend reading Philanthropy in America by Oliver Zunz to understand the recent history of fundraising in the United States.
With government, foundation, and corporate funding uncertain in the current government upheaval, economic uncertainty, and culture wars, individual fundraising is where nonprofits should put their efforts. That requires a tight board-staff working relationship. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.
Hannah Grannemann 