Whether you get your news from memes on Instagram, videos on TikTok, or the newspaper delivered to your doorstep, it's hard to ignore all the chatter about inflation. If you have missed all the news, then let me catch you up...

In October 2022, the consumer price index jumped 7.7% (compared to a year ago). Consumer prices are increasing quickly.

Does this mean we're in a recession? Not so fast.

Is this all bad news? Nope.

Can you still fundraise? Absolutely.

You have a lot of questions.

This might feel overwhelming.

Your zone of genius has nothing to with economics. That's ok.

My super smart pal, Cherian Koshy, Chief Development Officer at Endowment Partners and I got together to chat about everything you need to know as a small shop nonprofit organization heading into a recession. As inflation fluctuates and you start to worry about year-end fundraising, we want to share a few tangible ways to take action so you can lead your nonprofit with confidence.

You can listen to the conversation where ever you get your podcasts or you can watch the replay.

inflation and nonprofits: 5 takeaways on leading your org through a recession

Know your numbers
- Know where you are financially, how long you can survive on reserves
- Go into any sort of downturn with eyes wide open - don’t be surprised.
- Create a cashflow chart (we didn’t talk about this, but important. Grab the template below!)

RESOURCE: Budget template with a cash flow chart: Budget/Cash Flow Template - 100 Degrees Consulting (free download)

2. It’s all about retention - Part 1: STAFF/VOLUNTEERS

Hiring/finding new staff is hard and will remain hard.
Focus on retaining the staff you have and treating them really well.

RESOURCE: Here’s a great podcast from Mike Duerksen about building culture in your organization: 6 Layers of a Wildly Effective Nonprofit Culture and Brand

3. It’s all about retention - Part 2: DONORS

Pay attention to the donors who are most loyal to you
Have honest conversations about where you’re struggling
Don’t be in your donors wallets. Let them determine what their financial giving capacity is at this time.

LISTEN: What you need to know about donor retention and why it matters for sustainability

ACTION: Start connecting with your donors as soon as hit the donate button: Create a new donor welcome series

4. Let your donors know you’re open to different giving options, including gifts of stock or mutual funds.

Add a “Add a Smarter Ways to Give” button to your website.
These types of gives can be very compelling during financially challenging times, especially if they have investments in the stock market
Learn more about this fundraising research: Webinar - Fundraising Research Findings with Dr. Russell James - Endowment Partners

RESOURCE: Accept gifts of stock at no charge: Connect with Endowment Partners