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Nonprofit finance technology strategy is entering a new phase—and AI adoption is forcing leaders to rethink how teams operate, learn, and deliver impact.

Broadcast Live from Innovate 2026 in Washington, D.C., Jacqueline Tiso (Founder & CEO, JMT Consulting), Samantha Tiso (VP of Finance, JMT Consulting), and John Tiso (VP of Emerging Markets, JMT Consulting) share what nonprofit leaders are really facing when it comes to technology adoption.

Their dynamic isn’t just personal—it reflects what many nonprofit organizations are navigating right now: different generations, different learning styles, and a shared responsibility to move forward together.

Here’s the reality: nonprofits aren’t resisting innovation—they’re overwhelmed by it. Between daily operational demands and limited resources, the challenge isn’t access to tools—it’s finding the time, capacity, and strategy to use them effectively.

As Jacqueline explains, “Technology is driven by people… people think technology is driving them—but that’s actually not the case.” This shift in mindset is critical. AI isn’t replacing nonprofit professionals—it’s raising the bar for how they work.

Samantha brings it home with a practical warning: “If you don’t take the time to learn, you’re going to get left behind.” For nonprofit leaders, this means building intentional learning time into already full schedules—and treating training as a core operational investment, not a luxury.

And from a leadership standpoint, John Tiso emphasizes a critical skill: patience. As organizations adopt AI and new systems, leaders must create environments where learning curves are expected and supported—not rushed.

The trio also speak to:

Why AI adoption requires time, not just tools

How finance roles are evolving into strategic advisory positions

The importance of patience and personalization in multi-generational teams

Why nonprofit challenges haven’t changed in decades—and how technology can finally help address them

If you’re leading a nonprofit organization, managing finance, or evaluating new technology, this conversation and Innovate 2026 deliver a timely, grounded, and actionable perspective.

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Nonprofit board engagement strategy isn’t about sending more emails or chasing attendance—it’s about building clarity, structure, and purpose into how your board operates.

Katie Spencer, Founder of Zipline Consulting, breaks down why so many nonprofit boards struggle with disengagement—and what leaders can do to fix it. From unclear roles to outdated board structures, the issues are rarely about commitment—they’re about alignment.

As Katie shares, “If it feels like that meeting could have happened without me, then I am not likely to show up to the next one.” That single insight highlights a major challenge: board members disengage when they don’t see how they add value.

This fast-moving convo explores how nonprofit leaders can:

Align board roles with organizational strategy and growth phases

Recruit board members based on specific skills and needs

Replace passive meetings with active, outcome-driven engagement

Build systems that support accountability and long-term continuity

One of the most critical takeaways? The danger of “rubber stamp” boards. As Katie explains, “Every organization with a rubber stamp board will run up against a leadership continuity problem.” Without an engaged and informed board, transitions become risky and disruptive.

Instead, Katie introduces a practical framework built on four pillars: role clarity, defined work plans, strong systems, and a culture of ownership. These elements transform boards from passive participants into strategic assets.

If you’re leading a nonprofit, serving on a board, or preparing for organizational growth, this episode delivers actionable insights to strengthen governance and drive impact.

00:00:00 Introduction to Board Development Challenges
00:04:14 Why Board Apathy Happens
00:05:14 The Real Cost of Disengaged Boards
00:07:11 Creating Safe Space for Board Contribution
00:09:10 Matching Board Structure to Organizational Phase
00:12:09 Who Owns Board Strategy?
00:14:28 The Risk of Rubber Stamp Boards
00:18:48 Recruiting the Right Board Members
00:22:07 The Four Pillars of Board Effectiveness
00:27:00 Building Accountability and Ownership

#NonprofitLeadership #BoardDevelopment #TheNonprofitShow

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Nonprofit fundraising event etiquette and strategy can make—or break—your organization’s reputation and donor relationships. In this Fundraisers Friday episode, Julia Patrick and Tony Beall share practical, real-world guidance on how nonprofit professionals should approach events with intention, discipline, and strategic awareness.

From alcohol policies to attire, plus-one considerations to event arrival timing, this conversation goes beyond surface-level advice. It challenges fundraisers to recognize that every action at an event reflects on their organization. As Tony notes, “You are held to a different standard when you are representing your organization.”

The episode also reframes fundraising events as relationship ecosystems, not transactional opportunities. In high-noise, high-energy environments, success isn’t about delivering the perfect pitch—it’s about creating connection. “In a crowded, noisy room… leave them with a feeling,” Tony explains. That emotional connection becomes the bridge to meaningful follow-up.

You’ll also learn:

Why early arrival and post-event positioning create strategic advantages

How to set goals for every event you attend

What to observe and learn from other organizations’ event setups

How to manage donor perception through small behavioral choices

Why guest experience and operational details matter more than you think

If you’re attending events without a clear strategy, you’re missing opportunities to strengthen relationships, elevate your brand, and improve fundraising outcomes.

00:00:00 Welcome to Fundraisers Friday
00:02:00 Why fundraisers are held to a higher standard
00:05:30 Alcohol and professionalism at events
00:08:00 Managing perception in event photography
00:11:00 Dressing with intention and event themes
00:14:00 The hidden cost of attending events
00:16:00 Business cards and preparation
00:17:30 The plus-one challenge and expectations
00:18:30 Navigating noisy rooms and making connections
00:21:30 Best timing: early arrival and exit strategy
00:24:30 Setting goals for event success
00:26:00 Evaluating event logistics and guest experience

#TheNonprofitShow #FundraisingStrategy #FundraisersFriday

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Second home donor fundraising strategy is one of the most overlooked opportunities in nonprofit growth today—and it’s costing organizations real revenue. With over 6.5 million second homes in the U.S., nonprofits have access to a donor base that is ready to give… but often ignored or mishandled.

In this continuation conversation, Jeffrey Glebocki, Founder of Strategy Plus Action Philanthropy, shares groundbreaking research into how second homeowners think, give, and engage with nonprofits. The findings challenge common fundraising practices and reveal a major gap between nonprofit assumptions and donor expectations.

One of the clearest takeaways: pressure doesn’t work. As one donor put it, “Guilt is not a good way to ask for a contribution.” Instead, donors want authentic connection, thoughtful outreach, and a sense of belonging in their second-home communities.

This episode highlights how nonprofits are missing opportunities hiding in plain sight—from regular attendees at local organizations to high-capacity donors who are never approached. The lesson is simple but powerful: relationship-first fundraising still wins. “If I know you, if I trust you, and you're involved with this group, I’ll support you.”

You’ll also learn:

Why assumptions about wealth and capacity can shut down giving

How second homeowners actively seek community connection

The importance of personal communication and meaningful follow-up

Why making giving easy (single contributions, trusted intermediaries) increases results

How community foundations are successfully capturing this donor segment

For nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, and community organizations, this is a strategic wake-up call. The opportunity is real—but only for those willing to rethink how they approach donor engagement!!

00:00:00 Introduction and Research Overview
00:03:15 First Study on Second Home Donors Explained
00:08:12 Why Hard-Sell Fundraising Fails
00:11:29 The Danger of Wealth Assumptions
00:14:54 Hidden Donors in Plain Sight
00:18:09 Assumptions vs Real Donor Motivation
00:21:12 Relationship-Based Fundraising Insights
00:23:10 Power of Personal Communication
00:26:29 Missed Opportunities in Donor Stewardship
00:27:33 Making Giving Simple and Scalable
00:29:30 Strategic Opportunity for Nonprofits

#NonprofitFundraising #DonorStrategy #TheNonprofitShow

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Nonprofit storytelling strategy for donor engagement starts with clarity—not more content. If your organization is struggling to connect with donors, volunteers, or even your own board, the issue may not be effort—it’s alignment.

In this sparkling conversation, Marivi Bryant, Founder and President of Home Agency, shares how nonprofits can transform storytelling into a strategic business tool that drives engagement, trust, and action. Instead of chasing tactics, she explains why organizations must first define their core pillars and communicate a consistent, authentic message.

“If they don’t understand what you stand for, then it’s very difficult to feel connected to you.” That insight cuts to the heart of a major challenge across the sector—nonprofits are often doing incredible work, but their messaging is fragmented, diluted, or unclear.

Through real-world examples, including a case study involving mission confusion at a well-known organization, Marivi highlights how inconsistent messaging can lead to misunderstanding—even when impact is strong. The solution? Focus, discipline, and a willingness to say no. As she puts it, “We can’t be everything for everyone—we need to figure out what our pillars are.”

This conversation also explores how to:

Use storytelling to strengthen top-of-funnel awareness

Align internal teams and boards around a unified message

Leverage owned channels like email and social media for measurable engagement

Balance data and narrative without losing authenticity

For nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, and marketers, this learning session offers a clear operational takeaway: before you measure impact, before you scale outreach, you must clarify what you stand for!

00:00:00 Introduction to Storytelling Strategy
00:03:30 Why Nonprofits Struggle with Messaging Clarity
00:05:20 The Sales Funnel Applied to Nonprofits
00:06:30 Case Study: Confusion from Poor Messaging
00:08:20 Tactics vs Strategy in Storytelling
00:10:40 Competing in the Attention Economy
00:12:20 Authenticity and Brand Alignment
00:14:40 “Everything for Everyone” Problem
00:17:00 Measuring Engagement with Owned Channels
00:19:00 Aligning Programs Under One Brand
00:21:00 Who Owns Messaging in a Nonprofit?
00:23:00 Internal Communication and Board Alignment

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Nonprofit branding and fundraising strategy are more connected than most organizations realize—and when they’re misaligned, donor retention, staff capacity, and revenue all suffer.

Brianna Pyka, Co-Founder of Brandraise, breaks down how nonprofits can bridge the gap between branding and fundraising to create clarity, build trust, and drive sustainable growth. Instead of treating fundraising as a series of transactions, this conversation reframes it as a long-term relationship strategy rooted in consistent messaging and shared understanding across the organization.

As Brianna explains, “That’s not really a capacity problem—it’s a clarity problem.” When teams, boards, and donors all describe your mission differently, trust erodes and opportunities are lost. But when everyone speaks the same language, fundraising becomes a shared responsibility—not a burden carried by one department.

This lively discussion also challenges a common mindset in the sector: more activity does not equal better results. “Stop making tired people more tired” is a powerful reminder that strategic focus—not volume—is what moves organizations forward. By simplifying messaging, prioritizing key communication channels, and building repeatable systems, nonprofits can reduce burnout while increasing impact.

You’ll also hear why “the ask is not the finish line—it’s a doorway.” What happens after a donor gives determines whether they stay, give again, and bring others with them. This shift from acquisition to relationship-building is where real growth happens.

If your organization feels stuck in a cycle of starting over each year, struggling with donor retention, or overwhelmed by too many competing messages, this episode offers a clear, practical path forward.

00:00:00 Introduction to Branding + Fundraising Alignment
00:02:12 What Is Brandraise and Why It Matters
00:03:13 Fundraising Fatigue vs Messaging Clarity
00:05:03 The Brand and Fundraising Audit Process
00:07:11 “The Ask Is a Doorway” Mindset Shift
00:08:59 Why Donor Follow-Up Fails (and How to Fix It)
00:10:20 Stop Making Busy Teams Burn Out
00:13:30 Leadership Gaps and Fundraising Risk
00:15:47 How Messaging Inconsistency Breaks Trust
00:18:42 Simplifying Complex Nonprofit Messaging
00:21:19 Building Internal Alignment Across Teams
00:23:29 Creating Repeatable Fundraising Systems

#NonprofitFundraising #NonprofitStrategy #TheNonprofitShow

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Marie Rodriguez of Active Lotus introduces the G.O.S.T. method—Goal, Objective, Strategy, and Tactic—a simple but powerful framework that helps nonprofits translate mission into measurable action. Instead of reacting to constant crises, organizations can create a shared roadmap that guides daily decisions and long-term growth.

Looking for a nonprofit strategic planning framework that actually drives results—not just another plan sitting on a shelf? This episode breaks down a practical system nonprofit leaders can use immediately to improve alignment, reduce burnout, and execute with clarity.

As Marie explains, “The struggle is alignment… G.O.S.T. bridges that gap by turning mission into measurable action.”

This shift is critical in a sector where passion is abundant—but structure is often missing.

The episode also reframes how nonprofit leaders think about resources. Beyond financial budgets, Marie introduces the concept of an “energy budget”—the limited mental and operational capacity teams have to execute effectively. Without clarity, that energy is drained quickly, leading to burnout and poor decision-making.

You’ll learn how to:

Set measurable goals (not vague intentions)

Align teams around shared priorities

Shift donor strategy from transactional to relational

Build repeatable systems for execution and evaluation

Reduce decision fatigue with a clear strategic filter

Perhaps most importantly, this approach challenges the traditional model of annual strategic planning. Instead, G.O.S.T. becomes a living system, revisited daily and weekly to keep teams focused and agile. As Marie reminds us, “Time is the only resource that is non-renewable.” The question is: are you spending it intentionally?

00:00:00 Introduction to the GOST Method
00:02:33 What Is GOST and Why It Matters
00:04:01 Why Nonprofits Struggle With Alignment
00:05:46 Turning Mission Into Measurable Action
00:07:00 Burnout and the Cost of Poor Planning
00:10:06 Breaking Down Goals and Objectives
00:14:00 Strategy vs Tactics in Nonprofits
00:17:02 Real Example: Donor Retention System
00:18:45 Using GOST to Align Teams and Meetings
00:21:16 How Often Should You Revisit Strategy?
00:24:36 Reducing Decision Fatigue in Leadership
00:26:07 Implementing GOST in Your Organization

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With nearly 100 leaders retiring daily and 30% of nonprofit CEOs expected to step down within five years, organizations must act now. Nonprofit succession planning strategy is no longer optional—it’s essential as leadership turnover accelerates across the sector.

In this Fundraisers Friday discussion, Julia Patrick and Tony Beall explore what this leadership shift means for nonprofit operations, talent development, and long-term sustainability. The conversation goes beyond theory—this is about real-world readiness.

Fundraising professionals are increasingly being tapped for executive roles. Why? As Tony explains, “Development professionals are typically tapped for CEO roles because they already understand the donors, the mission, and the board relationships.” That combination makes them uniquely positioned to step into leadership.

This episode highlights the importance of structured succession planning—from defining roles and responsibilities to building internal leadership pipelines. Julia reinforces the urgency, pointing to sector-wide “brain drain” risks and the operational impact of leadership gaps.

The discussion also tackles a critical mindset shift: investing in staff development even if they eventually leave. As Tony notes, “The sector is going to be stronger because of your investment in this individual, whether they stay with your organization or not.”

You’ll walk away with practical insights on:

Preparing internal candidates for leadership roles

Creating a proactive succession plan

Navigating job transitions strategically

Strengthening your organization through talent investment

This is about more than filling roles—it’s about building resilient organizations that can thrive through change.

00:00:00 Introduction to Leadership Turnover
00:01:00 Why Leadership Retirements Are Increasing
00:03:00 The 30% Nonprofit CEO Retirement Trend
00:05:00 Why Fundraisers Become CEOs
00:08:30 Internal Hiring vs External Search Decisions
00:11:30 Advocating for Your Leadership Path
00:14:00 The Role of Continuous Learning
00:16:00 Navigating Conversations with Leadership
00:19:00 Talent Development vs Staff Turnover
00:23:00 Building a Succession Plan Framework
00:25:00 Planned vs Sudden Leadership Transitions
00:27:00 Honoring Legacy Leaders in Transition

#TheNonprofitShow #NonprofitLeadership #SuccessionPlanning

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