MASTERCLASS | Fundraising Self-Identification and Engaging Your Networks

We are all affected by the changing landscape in the impact sector, and your role in shaping a more just and inclusive world is crucial, and further, you are uniquely qualified to meet this moment with Grace Under Pressure.  We’re here to help. 

This Masterclass led by Natalie Rekstad, Founder & CEO of Black Fox Global, and hosted by Catalyst Now, focuses upon meeting the moment in the global social sector by leveraging one’s “native genius” in fundraising.  It is the second in a five-part series, the first session entitled ‘Fostering Authentic & Lasting Funder Relationships’ can be found here; skip straight to the video recording here. 

By leveraging this framework, you will identify your unique strengths—whether as an Asker, Connector, or Nurturer—to optimize your effectiveness. Further, the session provides practical guidance and tools to support your board members in mobilizing their networks to bring in new funding.

The Masterclass also emphasizes the importance of clear, consistent messaging and crafting a compelling personal “Why” to help build deep and lasting relationships with funders, and provides resources on these topics to support you in their fundraising success.

You can access the recording here.   

Meeting the Moment

Maya Angelou once said “Hope and fear cannot occupy the same space. Invite one to stay.” 

At Black Fox Global, we choose Hope. And while we as a sector navigate the abrupt disruption of USAID funding and the churn of executive actions in the USA, the pressing question is: With the stakes so very high, how do we effectively prepare, respond, and persevere in these extraordinary times?

We are sharing our guidance to meet the moment here, as it ties into much of the more expanded content we are providing in this post. 

Bird by Bird | Guidance to Meet the Moment

Fundraising Self-ID: Discovering Your Native Genius

Everyone has a natural fundraising style that plays to their strengths. Identify your dominant type from the three categories below, recognizing that you may embody elements of all three.

1. Asker – Making the Ask

• Strength: Directly requesting support, particularly from high-net-worth individuals.
• Personality Traits: Self-assured, resourceful, and decisive.
• Example Ask: “If I were to ask you to make a transformational gift of $X, what would you need to know to say yes?”

2. Connector – Opening the Door

• Strength: Introducing potential supporters and hosting engagement events.
• Personality Traits: Optimistic, versatile, and agile-minded.
• Example Ask: “Can I connect you with our Founder to explore if our mission resonates with you?”

3. Nurturer – Stewardship

• Strength: Building long-term relationships with existing supporters.
• Personality Traits: Empathetic, encouraging, and altruistic.
• Example Ask: “What would it need for you to join us in solving this issue within our lifetimes?“

Download the Self-ID PDF to determine your dominant fundraising style, and fuller guidance including language for use in funder meetings can be found here. 

Engaging Networks: Leveraging Your Strengths

Your fundraising style influences how you approach networking and relationship-building. Use the following openers and asks that align with your native genius:

• Askers: “The stakes have never been higher for humanity. I’d love to explore how you can join us in creating solutions.”
• Connectors: “I sincerely think that being part of our Impact Circle could be a transformative journey for you.”
• Nurturers: “I’d love to learn more about your heart for this mission. Is there something in your personal story that inspires you to care so deeply about _____?”

The following language that maps to current events is not in the expanded guide, so sharing example language here that meets the moment:

“As we navigate the abrupt disruption of USAID funding and the churn of executive actions in the USA, the stakes have never been higher for humanity and the planet.  For leaders around the world, it is a sacred call to fierce and focused action.  It is also an opportunity to invite leaders like you to join in.” 

“My core belief is that the future hinges upon a just and inclusive world.  With the rollback of women’s rights occurring on our watch, I’m doing what I can to not only stem the tide of harm to women and girls, but make strides toward a truly gender-equal world. I’d love to talk with you about what that can look like.”

Remember, the goal is to guide conversations with curiosity and authenticity, ensuring that potential supporters do most of the talking. This leads to informed asks based on a genuine understanding of their motivations.  Expanded choreography for new funder candidates can be found here, and this guide will assist in deepening existing funder relationships. 

Leading the Donor Dance | Choreography that Translates into Deeper Relationships and Increased Funding

Rapport & Connection | Strengthening Funder Relationships

Grace Under Pressure

Fundraising can be challenging, and while the Self-ID helps you be effective within your ‘native genius’, stepping outside your comfort zone is often required. Trust that your knowledge and skills will expand as you grow to meet the moment.  Keep the following principles in mind:

• Focus upon the Mission: Shift your perspective from personal discomfort to what the mission needs.
• Lead with Curiosity and Authenticity: Genuine passion and sincerity are key to building lasting relationships.
• Embrace Growth, Purpose, and an Abundance Mindset: Recognize that growth comes from stretching beyond your comfort zone.  Consider framing your work as a “soul assignment” and understand that your lived experience thus far has prepared you to lead in more expansive ways now.  

We wish to end on a note of Gratitude.  We are all fortunate to be part of the solutions, with hard won lived experience that has been preparing us for times like these. We are deeply grateful to be on this journey with others like you who’ve chosen to show up in these challenging times with a growth and abundance mindset. It’s an honor to serve alongside you on the Transition Team to a world that centers Dignity for All.