In this episode, Trevor Bragdon and Tarren Bragdon discuss why project fundraising is not a sustainable strategy for nonprofits. They compare project fundraising to a gift card that offers a one-time benefit but does not engage donors in the organization's overall mission. They explain that project fundraising can actually cost money and send a negative message internally. They emphasize the importance of having a compelling vision and avoiding one-off projects that distract from the organization's mission. They provide tips on how to pitch the big vision to donors and build long-term partnerships.

Takeaways

• Project fundraising is not a sustainable strategy for nonprofits as it reduces the organization's vision to one-off projects and can cost money.
• Donors who are engaged in the organization's overall mission are more likely to become long-term partners.
• When pitching to donors, focus on the problem you solve from their perspective, present a solution that feels safe or unique, and explain how it works in a concise and compelling way.
• Share success stories that demonstrate the impact of your organization's work and paint a vision of how lives will be improved in the future.
• Avoid project fundraising and instead focus on building relationships with donors based on the organization's big vision.

To see all the show notes visit: https://www.7figurefundraising.com/podcast/

To learn more about fundraising and our training visit: 7FigureFundraising.com

In this episode of the 7-Figure Fundraising Podcast, hosts Trevor and Tarren Bragdon explore the key strategies outlined in their new book, 7-Figure Fundraising: A Guide to Raising Millions to Change the World. They discuss the practical, step-by-step approach nonprofit leaders can use to transform their fundraising efforts and scale their impact.

• Why We Wrote the Book: To help nonprofit leaders understand fundraising both at the big picture level and with specific tactics. It’s a short, actionable read—just 127 pages.
• Key Lessons:
  • Fundraising is a Skill: No one is born a natural fundraiser—it’s a skill you can work on and improve.
  • Three Levers of Fundraising Growth: GROW your existing donors, KEEP them by increasing retention, and ADD new donors strategically.
• Focus Areas for Success:
  • ASK: Ask once a year with the right timing and a persuasive pitch.
  • PARTNER: Treat major donors like partners with a 4-star level of service.
  • FIND: Add a few new donors each year by securing referrals and hosting strategic events.
• Team Roles:
  • Closer: The person who makes the ask—often the CEO.
  • Conductor: Manages donor relations and ensures they receive top-tier service.
  • Connector: Focuses on finding new donors and setting up prospect meetings.

Get your copy today, available exclusively on Amazon. The audiobook will be released at the end of September.

To see all the show notes visit: https://www.7figurefundraising.com/podcast/

To learn more about fundraising and our training visit: 7FigureFundraising.com

View Episode 49 Show Notes on our website here.

Co-founders Elaine Alowo-Matovu and Takako Mino discuss the founding and fundraising journey of Musizi University, a new university in Uganda, and their vision behind it.

They discuss their backgrounds and how they came together to start the university. Elaine and Takako also explain the unique programs and curriculum offered at Musizi University, emphasizing the importance of practical skills and indigenous knowledge.

The podcast includes insights into their fundraising strategy, the importance of warm introductions, building relationships, and crafting compelling pitches. In addition, you’ll hear insights on overcoming university startup challenges, actionable advice for ambitious ideas, donating to Musizi University, and the interesting significance of "Musizi."

• 00:00 Introduction
• 00:43 Background and Inspiration for starting Musizi University
• 03:53 Unique Approach and Model of Musizi University
• 07:09 Co-founding Musizi University and Takako's Background
• 13:58 The Meaning of Musizi
• 16:16 Blending Western and Ugandan Talent in the University
• 26:32 Fundraising for a Startup University
• 30:43 Fundraising Success and Building Relationships
• 38:26 Tactics for Warm Introductions and Relationship Building
• 41:52 Crafting a Compelling Pitch
• 47:41 Navigating Challenges of Starting a University
• 48:16 Actionable Advice for Ambitious Ideas
• 49:43 Building Meaningful Relationships with Donors
• 51:07 How to Donate and Learn More About Musizi University

To learn more about Musizi University visit: https://www.musizi.ac.ug/

To see all the show notes visit: https://www.7figurefundraising.com/podcast/

To learn more about fundraising and our training visit: 7FigureFundraising.com