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Patton's Pick: The Commercial Charity by Martyn Drake

March 26, 2025

Leadership Resources for the Philanthropic Sector 

8Welcome to this edition of Patton's Picks, where we explore The Commercial Charity by Martyn Drake, who was a wonderful guest on our podcast (episode #82). This book addresses how nonprofits can apply commercial strategies to increase their impact without compromising their values. Drake provides practical advice for merging business acumen with charitable passion, an essential blend for today’s nonprofit leaders. Here’s why The Commercial Charity is crucial for nonprofit leaders:

  • Business Strategies for Nonprofits: Teaches how to apply business strategies effectively within the nonprofit context.
  • Sustainability: Focuses on financial sustainability and resilience, key for long-term success.
  • Leadership Development: Enhances leadership skills by integrating business acumen with philanthropic goals.

Dr. Patton McDowell, CFRE, MBA, is the creator of the innovative PMA Mastermind Leadership Program, a unique offering designed to elevate nonprofit leaders through comprehensive training and peer collaboration. He is also the author of the best-selling book, Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, and host of the weekly podcast with the same name, available here. Since founding PMA Nonprofit Leadership in 2009, Patton has strategically guided over 300 nonprofit organizations to achieve their fullest potential. A Certified Fundraising Executive and Master Trainer for AFP Global, he serves as Executive in Residence at Cornell University's Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy and as Director of the Institute for Philanthropic Leadership.

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