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Strategic planning has been getting a lot of attention lately, and for good reason. Mike Burns recently explored this topic in Nonprofit Pro , raising questions about how nonprofit boards participate in shaping organizational direction. His argument is simple: boards cannot treat strategic planning as a staff assignment that shows up as a completed document for approval. If strategic planning reflects governance, then a board that stands on the sidelines is not governing the

A recent article in the Stanford Social Innovation Review introduced a promising model for nonprofit collaboration called the Impact Collaborative. The concept describes how organizations can join forces to address community challenges while maintaining their independence.

Stories inspire donors, but data builds trust. Start now with an impact roadmap—a plan that links mission, programs, and measurable outcomes. Track outputs, quality, and results so next year you can say: “80% improved reading scores.” Data turns vision into impact—and impact drives generosity.

When budgets are tight, investments in data systems often fall to the bottom of the priority list. But as The Chronicle of Philanthropy Key Taykeaways report “How to Make the Case for Investments in Data: Experts Weigh In” points out, unpredictable times are exactly when accurate data matters most.

Nonprofit organizations exist to make communities stronger, safer, and more equitable. You lead programs that change lives every day. But as funders become more data-driven and outcomes-focused, it’s no longer enough to simply tell inspiring stories about your work. Funders – whether foundations, corporations, or government agencies – are asking harder questions: What outcomes are you achieving? How do you know? Why should we trust you with this investment? These are fair que

The nonprofit sector is in the middle of what Instrumentl calls “The New Funding Rush.” Their recent report  reveals that 85 percent of nonprofits are feeling the effects of federal funding changes, and more than 90 percent are adjusting their strategies. Organizations are applying for more grants, pursuing new funding sources, and working hard to stay ahead of uncertainty. This reshuffling of the funding landscape is both a challenge and an opportunity. As more organizations

I attended a recent conference session that left me thinking deeply about how nonprofits work together. Collaborations thrive when leaders prioritize shared mission over individual organizational success.

Jim Fruchterman’s recent article in Stanford Social Innovation Review, “Kill the Dinosaurs,” is a wake-up call to the nonprofit sector. His message is clear: if we want to solve today’s most pressing social problems, we must stop clinging to outdated models and start embracing innovation, especially through technology and data. I couldn’t agree more.

Discover how nonprofits can ethically collect and share impact stories to deepen engagement and amplify mission-driven results.

Nonprofit leaders know that the ground has shifted under them many times over the past several years. Government contracts have come under pressure, foundations have adjusted priorities, and the lingering effects of the pandemic still shape day-to-day operations. More recently, sudden federal funding cuts and delayed payments have left organizations wondering whether they can sustain the programs their communities rely on. In response, many boards and executive directors have

Trust-based philanthropy is an approach to giving that seeks to rebalance power, center relationships, and create equity. It resonates with those of us who believe generosity should be rooted in mutual respect and shared purpose. For this approach to succeed, we must understand what trust is built on.

Nonprofit organizations are the backbone of our communities, tirelessly working to address societal challenges and improve lives. You're...

Discover how impact storytelling transforms capital campaigns into powerful narratives that inspire donor engagement. Learn strategies for weaving human stories with outcome data across every campaign stage

Imagine two nonprofit leaders. Both are passionate. Both are working hard. Both are trying to grow their mission and make a real impact....

Measuring impact is essential for nonprofits—it’s how you prove to funders, donors, and your community that your programs are making a...

Your nonprofit collects data every day: stories, statistics, outcomes, and insights that reflect the difference your organization is...

Sustaining momentum in collective impact takes more than strategy—it requires purpose, care, and connection. Learn how to prevent burnout, re-engage partners, and reignite your initiative’s energy by returning to the “why.”

Learn how to create a donor experience that builds trust, communicates real outcomes, and keeps supporters engaged in your mission—beyond the donation.

Discover how data-driven collaboratives funded by the Kauffman Foundation are advancing systemic change and creating healthier, more prosperous communities.

Many nonprofits still rely on outputs to measure success—but these metrics miss the mark. Learn how to shift to outcomes-driven strategies that demonstrate real impact.

Staff turnover remains one of the most persistent and expensive challenges facing nonprofits. While many organizations rely on mission...

The latest report from the World Economic Forum, The Future is Collective: Advancing Collective Social Innovation to Address Society’s...

Discover four essential strategies for nonprofit sustainability in 2025, including innovation through data-driven learning, strategic partnerships, asset management, and measurable impact tracking. Learn how nonprofits can strengthen funding and mission resilience with practical guidance from SureImpact CEO Sheri Chaney Jones.

Every nonprofit approaches budget season a little differently. For some, June marks the end of the fiscal year. For others, December closes out financial activity. And then there are the organizations that wrap up in March, September, or some other off-month. Regardless of your timing, budget season should not just be about closing gaps and reviewing spreadsheets. It is a time to set priorities. This includes preparing your organization for something funders are increasingly

The nonprofit organization Center of Hope Family Services increased their community impact after implementing impact measurement technology

Economic uncertainty is creating new challenges for nonprofit leaders. Here are four strategic priorities you should focus on; as well as a few practical tools you can use to stay flexible and grounded.

This article discusses nine ways to foster a nonprofit culture that inspires excellence in your team and increases your impact.

Economic volatility is exposing major weaknesses in nonprofit impact strategies. Sheri Chaney Jones of SureImpact explains how to shift from reactive to resilient using real-time data, funder alignment, and outcome-driven operations.

This week, we had the privilege of attending the annual conference for the Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies (NJHSA). Nonprofit leaders came together to network, learn about trends in the human services sector, and find ways to better serve individuals and families. It was wonderful to meet with our customers and with other organizations to share ideas about how to move the needle for high-need individuals and families in our communities.   What was surprising was how

Last week, I had the privilege of presenting in Baltimore as part of HubSpot Day at the beginning of the National Technology conference (NTC). This event was focused on fundraising and operational best practices for nonprofits. One of the highlights of the day was the launch of Benevolent Tech's Mission Action Pack (MAP) – a groundbreaking framework designed to empower nonprofits by integrating fundraising, marketing, and action data management into an intuitive system on the

Hybrid funding models blend trust-based and traditional philanthropy. Learn why this approach is gaining traction.

Donor trust drives nonprofit success. Learn the five key drivers of trust from The Nonprofit Alliance.

"During the times of horse and buggy, no one thought to ask for a car." This quote perfectly captures the transformative era nonprofits...

Donors define impact as strategic, results-driven giving. Learn how to communicate your outcomes effectively.

This article discusses the impact of good nonprofit board governance and recommendations for building a healthy board-staff partnership.

MacArthur Foundation calls on funders to give 6% during financial uncertainty. Nonprofits must show results to attract this funding.

MacKenzie Scott’s philanthropy has transformed nonprofits. What can the social sector learn from it? Discover key insights from CEP’s study.

Every nonprofit professional dreams of being able to serve as many beneficiaries as possible to accomplish their missions. However, you need to spend money to make money, which is easier said than done for nonprofits covering overhead costs and program expenses. In this guide, we’ll help your team work smarter, not harder, to see the gains needed to cement your legacy. From investing in talent acquisition  to improving your impact reports, these tactics can help you surpass y

Communicating impact contributes to a trustworthy nonprofit brand. Learn the connection between branding and impact.

Learn key strategies for nonprofit board engagement, financial preparedness, and long-term sustainability.

With federal budget cuts affecting nonprofits, organizations must provide clear evidence of their impact to secure funding.

Discover how the 2025 Giving Toolkit from the Center for High Impact Philanthropy empowers nonprofits to maximize their impact.

An article, titled “Funders, Do Your !!@%@#! Job,” offers a powerful perspective on the role of funders in holding nonprofits accountable

Have you finished creating your annual goals? Leveraging impact data ensures alignment with your mission and makes annual planning easier

Anyone who has stayed up late watching infomercials has encountered weight-loss ads with the tiny disclaimer: “Results not typical."

As we approach the new year, I am thrilled to announce the launch of the SureImpact Insight Innovators January 2025 Cohort.

In a crowded marketing landscape, it’s more important than ever to grab supporters’ attention. Explore these tips to hook supporters

By adopting new approaches to learning and evaluation, funders and nonprofits can drive meaningful progress for the communities they serve.

In 2025, the nonprofits that thrive will be those that can effectively combine intentional storytelling with data-backed impact.

Explore these unique ways you can demonstrate donor impact with measurable impact stories.