SECU Foundation Mission Development Conference

🔭 Nonprofit leaders: Think like a Futurist.

That’s how we kicked off the session last week at the SECU Foundation's Mission Development Conference, encouraging every leader in the room to envision not just where their organization is, but where it could be.

You're busy, but your organization counts on you to carve out some "future thinking time" every week. It pays off. We recommended one of our current favorites to help you get started: The Future is Faster Than You Think by Peter Diamandis and Steven Kotler.

👇 How will these converging technologies affect your nonprofit this year? (Hint: they will).

The session was titled Five Keys to Unlocking Nonprofit Excellence, and focused on practical ways small and mid-sized nonprofits can elevate their work. 5 takeaways:

1️⃣ Sharpen Your Vision – refine your organizational message into a clear and compelling version so your board, staff, and stakeholders are all confident and effective ambassadors.

2️⃣ Develop Your Talent – focus on the board and pos these questions: are they really clear on their role? Are they all actively recruiting the next generation of leaders in your community?

3️⃣ Attack Your Fundraising Cycle – create a philanthropic culture isn't just a development staff member's job and it's not just the asking-for-money part. It’s a full-org mindset.

4️⃣ Seek Your Alliances – collaboration is not optional; it’s a growth strategy and potential funders want to see it. Where do you fit into the ecosystem of support for those you serve?

5️⃣ Evaluate & Innovate – What are YOU doing to become a better leader? What two skills can you develop in the year ahead? How can you enhance your strategic network?

Huge thanks to Jama Campbell and the SECU Foundation team who made the conference such a success — especially for hosting us at the very cool Revolution Mill in Greensboro. What a fantastic venue to spark strategic thinking and bold ideas!

Leave us a comment below! We would love to hear from you!