16 Ways Nonprofis Can Attract Diverse Funders

Every nonprofit donor plays a vital role in advancing the organization’s mission. As technology continues to reshape the ways nonprofit professionals engage with donors, finding the most effective strategies for connecting with and maintaining relationships with both current and potential donors across various demographic groups can be challenging.

Successfully attracting, retaining, and fostering meaningful, long-term relationships with a diverse group of donors not only enhances a nonprofit’s outreach but also helps maximize its impact over time. Below, 16 members of the Forbes Nonprofit Council share their strategies for nonprofit leaders to attract and retain a more diverse group of funders.

1. Be Open to New Approaches
   Diverse donors help broaden your reach and impact. Avoid assuming who might support your cause. Use various channels to connect with different groups and try innovative methods to find advocates who can champion your mission within their communities. – Magdalena Nowicka Mook, ICF

2. Explore New Platforms
   Vary the platforms you use to promote your mission and resist sticking to the same old methods. Engage your loyal supporters to share compelling testimonials and focus on current, visually appealing content to maintain donor interest. – Kendra Davenport, Easterseals

3. Clarify Your Mission and Goals
   Ensure that your organization’s mission and goals are communicated clearly, so people can relate to them. Your personal involvement and dedication to the cause will encourage funders to trust in your sincerity and commitment. – Rhonda Vetere, Laureus Sport For Good

4. Provide Clear Donor Support Pathways
   Offer clear pathways for donors to get involved, whether through sponsorships, scholarships, or other opportunities. This approach helps connect the right supporters to your cause. – Aaron Alejandro, Texas FFA Foundation

5. Use Storytelling
   Keep sharing impactful stories about the diverse communities you serve. Donors are eager to support causes that create positive change, and compelling narratives will continue to attract support for programs benefiting people of color and those with disabilities. – Kimberly Lewis, Goodwill Industries of East Texas

6. Get Out of the Office
   Engage with people outside of the office—meet with them for coffee or lunch. Building personal relationships with stakeholders helps you better understand their needs and fosters a diverse network of supporters. – Randy Wong, Hawaii Youth Symphony

7. Engage Actively in Your Community
   Engage in community activities that reflect its diversity. This will help raise awareness about your organization and build valuable connections with potential donors. – Nicole Suydam, Goodwill of Orange County

8. Address Holistic Needs of Constituents
   By addressing broader needs—such as healthcare, housing, and childcare—nonprofits can attract a wider range of funders who want to support comprehensive solutions. – Taryn Palumbo, Orange County Grantmakers

9. Network to Identify Potential Funders
   Leverage your board and key stakeholders to open new funding opportunities. Networking within these circles can help you identify new corporate partners or philanthropic supporters. – Victoria Burkhart, The More Than Giving Company

10. Build Strong Cross-Sector Partnerships
    Creating partnerships across sectors—corporate, philanthropic, and entertainment—can help ensure sustained impact and diversify funding sources. – Anne Marie Dougherty, Bob Woodruff Foundation

11. Diversify Revenue Streams
    Seek out diverse revenue sources like sponsorships, grants, crowdfunding, and donor-advised funds. This approach reduces reliance on one source and ensures greater financial stability for your nonprofit. – Alan Thomas, Association for Materials Protection & Performance

12. Provide Education on Key Issues
    Educate decision-makers and influencers about the consequences of actions affecting your mission. This positions your organization as an expert and builds credibility. – Patrick Riccards, Driving Force Institute

13. Plan Fundraisers Based on Your Target Audience
    Tailor your fundraising events to your target demographic to make them more engaging and enjoyable. This will help attract a broader range of donors. – Bruce Maj Pelz, Maji Safi Group

14. Adopt Collaborative Funding Models
    Use collaborative funding models to unite various foundations, allowing funders to share strategies, address challenges together, and allocate resources more effectively. – Lynette Bell, Truist Foundation

15. Encourage Intergenerational Collaboration
    Foster collaboration between generations by focusing on shared values and educating younger generations on philanthropy. Use authentic stories that resonate across age groups to attract a diverse group of funders. – Michael Bellavia, HelpGood

16. Monetize Programs Creatively
    Consider creative ways to monetize programs, like adding a suggested donation for free events. This can encourage ongoing support without limiting access, helping to engage new donors. – Karen Cochran, Philanthropy Innovators

Source: Forbes