This week, we’re diving into digital fundraising with Dana Snyder—speaker, monthly giving strategist, and founder of Positive Equation. Dana helps nonprofits build sustainable giving programs that transform casual donors into loyal champions.
Through her podcast Missions to Movements, Dana shares real-world strategies that help nonprofit leaders simplify their digital marketing, strengthen donor relationships, and raise more money online, without burnout or guesswork.
In this special GivingTuesday blog feature, Dana shares four practical ways to boost your fundraising. She covers rethinking your gala, getting featured in holiday gift guides, building momentum on LinkedIn, and sending emails that truly deepen connections.
Whether you’re new to digital fundraising or are ready to refresh your strategy for year-end, these insights will help you raise more and stress less this GivingTuesday. Keep reading or hit play on the podcasts below to get all the fundraising tips to give your campaign a boost!
1. Year-End Strategies for Nonprofit Leaders: Grow Your Thought Leadership and Mission
🎧 Listen: Apple Podcast | Spotify
Episode Summary:
LinkedIn is a goldmine for nonprofit leaders – yet most aren’t taking advantage. Did you know 80% of LinkedIn’s billion+ members want to give back? That means your next donor, the person planning your next speaking gig, or partner could be scrolling right now.
The secret isn’t perfect marketing. It’s showing up consistently with authentic stories. Here’s how to make it work:
- Block 2–3 hours a week to batch and schedule content.
- Treat posts like mini-newsletters—spark conversation, inspire action, or deepen trust.
- Use the “3×3 strategy” → 3 pillars, 3 posts per week.
- Keep a running list of ideas in your Notes app.
- Refresh your profile banner, headline, and feature your monthly giving page.
👉 Remember: people are watching even if they don’t “like” or comment. Stay consistent.
2. How Your Year-End Gala or Event Can Generate Revenue All Year with Monthly Giving as the Centerpiece
🎧 Listen: Apple Podcast | Spotify
Episode Summary:
Most galas bring in one-time donations that vanish once the event ends. But what if you turned that one night into 12 months of impact?
Here’s the shift: make monthly giving the centerpiece of your event.
- Create signature, unforgettable moments that tie back to recurring giving.
- Elevate your existing monthly donors with VIP touches or recognition.
- Capture content during the event and reuse it for donor stewardship all year long.
- Work with tech partners so donors can say “yes” to monthly giving seamlessly.
✨ Your gala shouldn’t just be a party. It should be the kickoff to predictable, sustainable revenue.
3. How Nonprofits Can Get Featured in Holiday Gift Guides with AI-Powered Pitches
🎧 Listen: Apple Podcast | Spotify
Episode Summary:
Holiday gift guides aren’t just for big brands. They’re a massive opportunity for nonprofits to position monthly giving as the ultimate “gift that gives back.”
Here’s what you need to know:
- Timing matters → Editors lock in guides October–December.
- Gift guide features = visibility, credibility, SEO, and even AI recommendations.
- Pitch your monthly giving program as a “subscription gift” that delivers impact 12 times a year.
- Prep assets now: photos, sample copy, quotes from leadership.
- Target national outlets, niche cause-specific sites, local publications, and impact influencers.
💡 Pro tip: Don’t count yourself out. Your mission is just as giftable as anything on Amazon.
4. Boost Donor Engagement Before Year-End: This ONE Nurture Email Sparked 268 Replies
🎧 Listen: Apple Podcast | Spotify
Episode Summary:
Before you drop your big year-end appeals, you need to nurture your donors first. A little love goes a long way.
I sent one simple National Nonprofit Day email (no ask, just gratitude) and got 268 replies. The results? Stronger connections, higher open rates (56–60%), and a list that was primed for year-end.
Here’s how to pull it off:
- Share stories + milestones without asking for money.
- Use plain-text, heartfelt emails that feel 1:1.
- Add fun engagement boosts → playlists, coffee cards, pins, stickers.
- Partner with local businesses for unique giveaways.
- Invite interaction: let supporters choose gifts or share their own stories.
🔥 Try a short “nurture challenge” this year. You’ll build trust, improve deliverability, and warm up your audience before the big ask.
With Dana’s practical strategies in your toolbox, you can take your GivingTuesday and year-end campaigns to the next level. From turning one-time donors into recurring supporters, to creating meaningful connections and leveraging smart digital tactics, there’s plenty here to put into action. Dive in, experiment, and watch your impact, and your supporters’ engagement, grow!
