The Secret to Winning Over Donors (Even in a Competitive ...

What this episode covers

Struggling to stand out in a crowded nonprofit world? Discover the secret strategies savvy leaders use to win over donors, even in the face of fierce competition. In this episode of Hey Nonprofits, host Trevor Nelson sits down with fundraising expert Courtney Harness to share actionable advice that nonprofit professionals can implement today to boost their fundraising results.Courtney dives into the challenges nonprofits face, from reconnecting with donors after long gaps to overcoming fears around asking for money. You'll learn how to use tools like LinkedIn to build genuine relationships, embrace vulnerability, and foster authentic connections that inspire larger contributions. They also explore the power of resilience, mentorship, and storytelling in navigating a rapidly changing nonprofit landscape.If you're looking for modern solutions to age-old fundraising challenges, proven techniques to grow your network, and clear steps to build lasting donor relationships, this episode is a must-watch. Tune in now to take your nonprofit fundraising efforts to new heights.🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗Connect with Courtney on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-harrness/Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/📌 *CHAPTERS* 📌Chapters:0:00 Networking Secrets: Stand Out in a Competitive Landscape1:59 The Changing Nonprofit World: Adapting to Growth Opportunities5:55 Reconnecting with Donors: Overcoming Funding Challenges7:46 Staying Strong: The Power of Resilience in Tough Times11:48 Beating Competition: Turn Challenges Into Opportunities13:42 Why $600 Billion Isn’t Enough: Tackling Complex Issues17:22 Build Donor Relationships: Beyond Asking for Money19:10 Transparency Wins: The Key to Collaboration and Support22:24 LinkedIn Hacks: Master Networking for Fundraising Success24:09 Leadership That Listens: Solving Donor Problems Effectively27:47 Breaking Stigma: Why Asking for Help is a Strength29:30 Fundraising Fears: Stop Worrying, Start Connecting32:52 Mentorship Magic: Gaining Confidence in Fundraising34:44 From Contacts to Connections: Strengthen Your Relationships38:25 Fundraising = Baseball? Learn How to Embrace Failure39:55 Prepare for Rejection: Resilience That Leads to Wins43:06 Accountability Matters: How Vulnerability Builds Growth44:57 Sobriety Story: Lessons Learned and Applied to Fundraising48:30 Community is Power: Fundraising Through Authenticity50:11 LinkedIn’s Potential: A Vision for Nonprofit Growth

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Hey Nonprofits!?

This episode is 51 minutes long.

When was this Hey Nonprofits! episode published?

This episode was published on August 5, 2025.

What is this episode about?

Struggling to stand out in a crowded nonprofit world? Discover the secret strategies savvy leaders use to win over donors, even in the face of fierce competition. In this episode of Hey Nonprofits, host Trevor Nelson sits down with fundraising...

Can I download this Hey Nonprofits! episode?

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