Episodes

  • Is Your Mission Statement Sabotaging Your Nonprofit? Crafting A Mission for Maximum Impact

    Is Your Mission Statement Sabotaging Your Nonprofit? Crafting A Mission for Maximum Impact
    Jun 12 2025

    Welcome to The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast! In this foundational episode, your host Matt Stockman tackles the single most important reason most nonprofits fail—and it isn't a lack of funding. It's a lack of clarity. Your organization's mission statement is the bedrock of your success, influencing everything from leadership and fundraising to daily operations and measuring impact.

    Before you skip ahead thinking you've "checked the box" on your mission statement, Matt challenges you to ask: Is it truly working for you? This episode dives deep into how to transform your mission statement from a forgotten line on your website into a powerful tool that functions as your organization's compass, magnifying glass, and yardstick.

    Learn the simple but powerful formula for crafting a mission statement that is clear, concise, and compelling. We'll break down real-world examples from successful nonprofits like St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the American Red Cross, and expose the common pitfalls of vague, jargon-filled statements that hinder growth. If you want to ensure your nonprofit is built for lasting success, this episode is your essential first step.

    In This Episode, You'll Learn:

    • The 3 critical functions of a powerful mission statement:
      • A Compass: Guiding your daily decisions and keeping you focused on what truly matters.
      • A Magnifying Glass: Helping you focus on the specific problem you are uniquely called to solve.
      • A Yardstick: Creating a clear and measurable way to track your progress and impact.
    • The clear distinction between a Mission Statement (your daily purpose: the what, how, and for whom) and a Vision Statement (your long-term future: the why and where you're going).
    • The proven formula for a great mission statement: Who you serve, What you do, and How/Why you do it.
    • Actionable steps to evaluate your current mission statement or write a new one from scratch using a simple sentence-completion exercise.

    Free Resources & Links

    • [FREE MINI-COURSE] The Fearless Fundraising Framework: Are you struggling with fundraising? Overcome your fear and build confidence with our free mini-course. You'll get a PDF workbook and 5 short videos walking you through the proven 5-step process to clarify your message and invite others to partner with you financially.

      • Get the free course at: Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits

    • [FREE CONSULTATION] Book a Free Call with Matt: Are you facing a specific challenge or feeling overwhelmed? Book a free, no-pressure discovery call. We'll get to know each other, discuss what you're dealing with, and I'll follow up with recommended next steps.

      • Book your free call here: https://www.nonprofitlaunchplan.com


    Strong Mission Statements:

    • St. Jude Children's Research Hospital: To advance cures, and means of prevention, for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment.
    • American Red Cross: To prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.
    • Wyoming Hunger Initiative: We work to prevent food insecurity by increasing awareness and support for the work of local anti-hunger organizations statewide through innovative programs that connect like-minded organizations as well as funding support for local solutions.

    Connect & Subscribe

    Thanks for listening to The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits.

    • Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.
    • Share this episode with another nonprofit leader who is working to create lasting impact.
    • Visit our website for more resources, tools, and guidance: https://www.nonprofitlaunchplan.com
    • Matt's email: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com
    • LinkedIn: (2) Matt Stockman | LinkedIn

    Until next time, keep making a difference!
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    21 mins
  • Mastering Nonprofit Email: 10 Best Practices for Impactful Communication

    Mastering Nonprofit Email: 10 Best Practices for Impactful Communication
    Jun 5 2025

    Are your nonprofit's emails getting opened, read, and acted upon? In this essential episode of "The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast," host Matt Stockman dives deep into the art and science of effective email communication for startups, small, and growing nonprofits. Discover why email is far from dead in 2025 and how to leverage it to build a strong foundation for your organization's success.

    Whether you're focused on fundraising, marketing, or storytelling, email touches every facet of your nonprofit's operations. Matt reveals the common mistakes that hinder your emails from reaching their full potential and shares 10 game-changing best practices to elevate your email marketing strategy. Learn how to craft compelling messages that engage donors, attract partners, and celebrate your impact.

    In this episode, you'll learn:

    • Why email remains a vital communication tool for nonprofits in today's digital landscape.
    • How to define a singular goal for every email to maximize its impact.
    • The power of personalization and why writing to "one person" makes a difference.
    • Strategies for slaying your subject lines and optimizing preview text for higher open rates.
    • Tips for crafting conversational yet succinct email content.
    • The importance of testing your emails across various devices before sending.
    • A crucial step to ensure your email's message is clearly understood.

    Don't let your valuable emails go unread! Tune in to gain actionable insights that will transform your nonprofit's email communication, boost engagement, and drive meaningful results.

    Special Offer for Listeners: Struggling with fundraising? Matt offers a free mini-course: "Fearless Fundraising Framework." This valuable resource includes a PDF workbook and 5 short videos designed to clarify your messaging and build confidence in inviting financial partnership. Get your free mini-course at Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits

    website: Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits
    email Matt: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nonprofit-launch-plan/
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    21 mins
  • Fearless Fundraising Step #5: Mastering the Call To Action for Nonprofit Growth

    Fearless Fundraising Step #5: Mastering the Call To Action for Nonprofit Growth
    May 28 2025

    Welcome to "The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast," where host Matt Stockman helps startup, small, and growing nonprofits build a strong foundation. In this episode, we tackle the #1 pain point for many: fundraising. Specifically, we’re honing in on Step 5 of the Fearless Fundraising Framework: The Action Step, and how it empowers you to invite others to create lasting impact.

    Matt explains why a clear call to action is non-negotiable for turning informed supporters into active donors. You'll learn how to guide potential givers through an emotional journey, making them the hero of the story as their involvement solves critical problems. We'll revisit the first four steps – Problem, Solution, Ask, Urgency – to show how they build to this crucial final step, ensuring your ask resonates and drives results.

    Hear real-world examples from humanitarian relief and youth development organizations that effectively use this framework to secure financial partnerships. Plus, Matt offers valuable advice on handling rejections and building a strong email list for ongoing donor engagement.

    What You'll Learn:

    • The significance of a strong call to action in your nonprofit fundraising strategy.
    • How to integrate Fearless Fundraising principles into all your donor communications.
    • Practical examples of effective calls to action from successful nonprofits.
    • Tips for navigating "no" responses and nurturing potential donors for future success.

    Free Resource: Ready to transform your fundraising confidence? Grab your free mini-course on the 5 core steps of the Fearless Fundraising Framework! It includes a PDF workbook and 5 insightful videos. Access it now at Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits

    Email: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com
    LinkedIn: Matt Stockman | LinkedIn
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    16 mins
  • Fearless Fundraising Step #4: Creating Urgency - Compelling Action Now!

    Fearless Fundraising Step #4: Creating Urgency - Compelling Action Now!
    May 21 2025
    Podcast Show Notes: The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small and Growing NonprofitsEpisode Title: Fearless Fundraising Step #4: Creating Urgency - Compelling Action Now!Episode Summary:Welcome to another impactful episode of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast! In this episode, host Matt Stockman dives deep into Step 4 of the Fearless Fundraising Framework: Creating Urgency. Learn how to inspire potential donors to make a financial gift now rather than later, maximizing your fundraising efforts and achieving greater nonprofit impact. This episode provides actionable strategies, real-world examples, and proven techniques to help your startup nonprofit or growing organization build a strong financial foundation. If you're struggling with donor engagement or want to improve your fundraising strategy, this episode is a must-listen for nonprofit founders, development directors, and anyone involved in nonprofit funding.Key Takeaways from this Episode:The Power of Urgency in Nonprofit Fundraising: Discover why creating a sense of urgency is crucial for converting interest into immediate financial support for your charitable organization.Fearless Fundraising Framework Recap: Matt reviews the first three steps: Step 1: The Problem: Clearly define the specific and unique problem your nonprofit organization addresses.Step 2: The Solution: Position the potential giver as the hero who creates impact through their generosity.Step 3: The Ask: Guide donors to take action by making a financial gift.Tactics for Creating Urgency:Built-in Urgency: Understand how certain nonprofit missions (e.g., medical care, human trafficking) naturally possess urgency.Strategic Urgency for Less Obvious Causes: Learn techniques for fundraising for faith-based organizations or those with less immediate needs.Matching Gifts: Leverage major donor contributions to create dollar-for-dollar matches, incentivizing immediate giving.Positive Peer Pressure: Highlight increasing monthly giving trends to encourage participation.Optimized Communication: Utilize multiple "GIVE" buttons in email campaigns and strong calls to action on your nonprofit website.Impact-Driven Urgency: Reiterate the impact of donations by connecting gifts back to the problem and solution, making the donor feel essential to the outcome.Storytelling for Urgency: Share compelling stories of individual impact and clear progress updates on fundraising goals to motivate action (e.g., student outreach, humanitarian accounting).Sprint Campaigns: Frame short, time-bound fundraising campaigns around specific, achievable goals (e.g., "Building Bridges" outreach, emergency transportation, winter coat drive).Time-Sensitive Opportunities: Identify and communicate immediate needs within your community outreach or charitable programs.Why Urgency Matters: Without it, potential partners may become informed but not compelled to give, leading to missed funding opportunities. The moment of connection is when commitment is most likely to occur.Resources Mentioned in this Episode:FREE Mini-Course: Fearless Fundraising Framework: Struggling with nonprofit fundraising? Get a free PDF workbook and 5 short videos that walk you through the 5 core steps of the Fearless Fundraising Framework. Clarify your messaging and grow your confidence to ask for financial partnerships. Get the Free Course: Visit nonprofitlaunchplan.comBook a Free Consultation with Matt Stockman: Have a specific nonprofit challenge or question? Book a no-pressure, no-obligation "get to know you" chat to discuss your situation and receive personalized recommendations. Contact | Nonprofit Launch PlanDon't forget to subscribe to "The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast" for more essential insights on building and growing a successful nonprofit!Share this episode with other nonprofit leaders and make a lasting impact in your community!
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    13 mins
  • Fearless Fundraising Step #3: Mastering The Ask for Nonprofit Success!

    Fearless Fundraising Step #3: Mastering The Ask for Nonprofit Success!
    May 14 2025
    Welcome to The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits!Are you ready to build your nonprofit on a rock-solid foundation and create lasting impact? Join your host, Matt Stockman, in each episode as we dive deep into the 6 key areas essential for nonprofit success: Leadership, Fundraising, Marketing, Programs and Services, Operations, and Finances.In today's episode, we're spotlighting a crucial element of nonprofit fundraising: Step 3 of the Fearless Fundraising Framework – The Ask. We'll explore how to effectively turn your compelling words about the problem your nonprofit solves and the impact you make into concrete action and financial partnership.Let's Review the Fearless Fundraising Framework:Step #1: The Problem – Be specific and unique about the issue your nonprofit tackles.Step #2: The Solution – Position the impact of your work as the solution, making the potential giver the hero.Step #3: The Ask – Turning your passion into a clear invitation for financial support (that's what we're focusing on today!).Step #4: (Spoiler alert! This is coming up in our next episode!)Step #5: (2 weeks from today)Mastering The Ask: Turning Words into Action for Your NonprofitMany passionate nonprofit leaders excel at describing the problems they address and the solutions they offer. However, the crucial step of asking for financial support can often feel challenging.Before we dive into specifics, I highly recommend "A Spirituality Of Fundraising" by Henri Nouwen. This insightful book provides a foundational understanding of the biblical principles behind people coming together to support meaningful work and helps build confidence in inviting others into your mission.As a nonprofit coach, I often emphasize the importance of shifting your mindset around fundraising. Remember from our previous episodes, the goal of outlining the problem and solution is to position your prospect as the hero, with your nonprofit serving as the guide.When it comes to The Ask, this dynamic remains. You are connecting the "hero" (the potential giver) with the impact their financial gift will have on someone's life. It's about partnership, not just a transaction.Key Differences: Relational Giving vs. Transactional GivingTransactional Giving: Asking for resources so that you can go do something.Relational Giving: Inviting people to partner with you so that together, the work gets done through your nonprofit. People are excited to create impact stories through relationships!By allowing this mindset to take root, you'll become clearer and more dynamic in inviting others into partnership with your nonprofit. For faith-based nonprofits, this perspective can also shift the responsibility for funding, reducing the personal sting of a "no."Key Points for Making a Clear and Effective Fundraising Ask:Be Clear About Your Needs and the Impact of Their Gift: The more directly the gift is tied to the problem and solution, the better. Example: Instead of a vague "donate what you can," try: "The monthly cost of care for one resident is $3000. Could you commit to $100 a month to cover a day of care?"Put Yourself in the Potential Partner's Shoes: Wouldn't you want to know exactly how your contribution will help? Clarity removes the guesswork and frustration.Don't Offer Too Many Options: Stick to 1-2 clear giving options, and definitely no more than 3.Tailor Your Ask to the Situation: An email campaign will differ significantly from a face-to-face meeting with a major donor. Do your homework!Key Takeaways for Fearless Nonprofit Fundraising:Fundraising is about relationship and partnership. You and your financial supporters play equally important roles in achieving your nonprofit's mission. This mindset prevents fundraising from becoming a mere transaction.Present your need with clarity and offer 1-2 specific suggestions for partnership. Avoid vague language like "whatever you can do would be great."Need Help with Your Nonprofit's Fundraising Ask?If you have questions or need help articulating your fundraising ask, don't hesitate to reach out via email. I'm here to support your nonprofit's growth!Coming Up Next: Step 4 – Creating Urgency in Your Fundraising Efforts!Have a Specific Nonprofit Question? Book a FREE Call! Contact | Nonprofit Launch PlanStruggling with Nonprofit Fundraising? Grab Your FREE Mini-Course!Let's face it, fundraising is often the #1 pain point for startup nonprofits and even established ones. But it doesn't have to be! At Nonprofit Launch Plan, we believe fundraising should be a primary focus from the beginning. That's why I've created a FREE mini-course, complete with a PDF workbook and 5 short videos, to guide you through the 5 core steps of the Fearless Fundraising Framework.This free resource will help you:Clarify your nonprofit's messaging for maximum impact.Grow your confidence in asking for donations and financial partnerships.Develop a proven fundraising plan that gets ...
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    13 mins
  • Fearless Fundraising Step 2: Making Your Donor The HERO

    Fearless Fundraising Step 2: Making Your Donor The HERO
    May 7 2025
    Episode Title: Fearless Fundraising Step 2: Making Your Donor The HERO Host: Matt StockmanEpisode Description:Welcome back to The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, your essential resource for startup, small, and growing nonprofits. Hosted by Matt Stockman, this podcast provides nonprofit leaders with the frameworks, tools, and guidance needed for lasting impact. We focus on the 6 key areas crucial for nonprofit success: Leadership, Development (Fundraising), Marketing, Programs, Operations, and Finances.In this episode, we dive deep into Step 2 of the "Fearless Fundraising Framework," a crucial element for effective nonprofit development. Following up on last week's discussion about defining the specific problem your nonprofit solves, we now tackle the solution. Discover a counterintuitive approach: your nonprofit isn't the hero, your donor is! Learn how to position the impact of a potential donor's contribution as the true solution, shifting your fundraising communication to make the giver the central figure in the story. This episode is packed with practical nonprofit fundraising strategies and nonprofit leadership advice to boost your confidence and results.Key Takeaways for Nonprofit Leaders:The 6 Pillars of Nonprofit Success: Every thriving nonprofit needs strong Leadership, Development/Fundraising, Marketing, Programs, Operations, and Finances.Fearless Fundraising Framework Recap: This episode focuses on Step 2, building upon Step 1 (Get Specific About the Problem).The Solution is IMPACT: The core principle of Step 2 is understanding that the impact your work creates (enabled by the donor) is the solution, not just the work itself.Position the Donor as the Hero: Learn the nonprofit storytelling technique of framing your narrative so the potential financial partner sees themselves as the key agent of change. This is vital for donor engagement and successful nonprofit fundraising appeals.Shift Your Language: Understand why overusing "we," "our," or "my" can undermine your fundraising efforts by positioning your organization, not the donor, as the hero. Learn more effective nonprofit communication tactics.Practical Examples: Hear clear examples (like the Rwanda water well and homeless shelter meal scenarios) illustrating how to define a specific problem and present an impact-focused, donor-centric solution.Emotional Connection Over Data (Initially): While data is important for some, focus first on making an emotional connection through clear, concise problem/solution statements. This is key for initial donor relations.Internalize Your Message: The importance of memorizing and consistently using your refined problem/solution statements across your team for effective nonprofit marketing and fundraising.Avoid Common Pitfalls: Recognize the tendency to over-explain with data initially and how to structure your communication for maximum impact.Preview of Step 3: Get ready for the next step in the framework – "The Ask."Mentioned Resources:FREE Mini-Course - Fearless Fundraising Framework: Get the PDF workbook and 5 short videos walking you through all 5 steps to clarify your message, build confidence, and improve your nonprofit fundraising results. Get it here: nonprofitlaunchplan.com Book a FREE Call with Matt: Discuss your specific nonprofit challenges or questions in a no-pressure, no-obligation chat. Get personalized insights for your nonprofit startup or growing nonprofit. Book via the website: Contact | Nonprofit Launch PlanConnect & Support:Subscribe: Don't miss future episodes filled with nonprofit management advice and leadership strategies. Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.Share: If you found this episode helpful, please share it with another nonprofit leader, board member, or founder who could benefit from this episode.Follow: Visit nonprofitlaunchplan.com for more resources.Keywords: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Nonprofit Fundraising, Nonprofit Startup, Small Nonprofit, Growing Nonprofit, Nonprofit Management, Nonprofit Development, Fundraising Strategies, Donor Engagement, Nonprofit Communication, Nonprofit Storytelling, Fearless Fundraising, Nonprofit Advice, Nonprofit Success, Effective Nonprofit Leadership, Nonprofit Best Practices, Nonprofit Marketing, Donor Relations, Nonprofit Finance, Nonprofit Operations.
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    12 mins
  • Fearless Fundraising Step 1: Nail Your Nonprofit's Problem Statement

    Fearless Fundraising Step 1: Nail Your Nonprofit's Problem Statement
    Apr 23 2025

    As a nonprofit leader, do you struggle to articulate your organization's core purpose in a way that inspires support and drives impact? Effective nonprofit leadership starts with absolute clarity on the problem you exist to solve. Many nonprofits falter because their core problem statement is too broad or just not clear.

    In this episode of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, host Matt Stockman guides nonprofit founders, executive directors, and emerging leaders through the critical first step of the Fearless Fundraising Framework: getting crystal clear and specific about the exact problem your nonprofit exists to solve. This is a cornerstone of effective nonprofit strategy and mission clarity.

    Discover why vague statements undermine your goals and learn how specificity is key for nonprofit leaders connecting with donors, volunteers, and partners. Matt shares actionable leadership insights and real-world examples to help your team refine this critical piece of your organizational development. Understand how mastering this step clarifies your nonprofit vision, strengthens all messaging – from website copy to grant proposals – and is essential for sustainable nonprofit success, particularly in fundraising.


    🎧 Listen to the full audio episode:

    • Apple Podcasts: Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits - Podcast - Apple Podcasts
    • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2qPU5v8icpcQIEMyPhjEOn?si=6c1edf0551d44498
    • Transistor: https://nonprofitlaunchplan.transistor.fm/

    🎁 FREE RESOURCE MENTIONED: Struggling with fundraising? Grab the Fearless Fundraising Framework Mini-Course (5 short videos + workbook): https://www.nonprofitlaunchplan.com/#minicourse

    CONNECT WITH US:

    • Website: Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nonprofit-launch-plan


    ABOUT THE PODCAST: The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast helps startup, small, and growing nonprofits build on a strong foundation. Host Matt Stockman provides frameworks, tools, and guidance across 6 key areas (Leadership, Fundraising, Marketing, Programs, Operations, Finances) to help you create lasting community impact.


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    8 mins
  • Build Your Nonprofit Network: Practical Steps to Success

    Build Your Nonprofit Network: Practical Steps to Success
    Apr 16 2025

    Struggling to grow your nonprofit's support network beyond your initial circle of friends and family? 🤔 This episode of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast is packed with practical strategies to help you build the robust connections your mission needs – without the awkwardness or a huge marketing budget!

    So you've shared your vision... but then what? Host Matt Stockman tackles this common challenge for startup, small, and growing nonprofits. Discover how to strategically expand your reach to find not just donors, but also volunteers, advocates, resources, and crucial moral support. Learn how to move beyond hoping people find you, and start actively building a network that fuels your impact.

    In this episode, you'll learn:

    • Timing is Everything: When and how to ask for connections effectively (plus the power of specific requests).
    • Re-engage Past Champions: Simple ways to reconnect with former supporters (donors, volunteers, beneficiaries!) and turn them into network advocates.
    • The 'Super Connector' Secret: How to identify, nurture, and empower people who naturally love connecting others to your cause.

    Listen now for tangible steps you can take this week to build authentic relationships and make it easy for people who believe in your mission to share it with others.

    🎧 Listen to the full audio episode:

    • Apple Podcasts: Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits - Podcast - Apple Podcasts
    • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2qPU5v8icpcQIEMyPhjEOn?si=6c1edf0551d44498
    • Transistor: https://nonprofitlaunchplan.transistor.fm/

    🎁 FREE RESOURCE MENTIONED: Struggling with fundraising? Grab the Fearless Fundraising Framework Mini-Course (5 short videos + workbook): https://www.nonprofitlaunchplan.com/#minicourse

    CONNECT WITH US:

    • Website: Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nonprofit-launch-plan

    ABOUT THE PODCAST: The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast helps startup, small, and growing nonprofits build on a strong foundation. Host Matt Stockman provides frameworks, tools, and guidance across 6 key areas (Leadership, Fundraising, Marketing, Programs, Operations, Finances) to help you create lasting community impact.

    👍 Enjoyed this episode?

    • LIKE this video!
    • SUBSCRIBE to the channel for more nonprofit tips!
    • COMMENT below with your biggest networking challenge!

    #Nonprofit #NonprofitNetworking #Fundraising #NonprofitLeadership #StartupNonprofit #SmallNonprofit #SupportNetwork #NonprofitGrowth #Podcast #MattStockman #NonprofitLaunchPlan
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    15 mins
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