Ask a Funder: Crucial Insights for Nonprofit Success (Cathryn Dhanatya)

Are you struggling to secure the funding your nonprofit needs, unsure if your proposals are hitting the mark or if your leadership approach is holding you back? In episode 281 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Cathryn Dhanatya shares invaluable advice for nonprofit leaders navigating the complexities of fundraising and leadership. With experience on both sides of the funding process, Cathryn highlights the common mistakes organizations make when submitting proposals. She emphasizes the critical role of relationship-building, clear communication, and developing a strong team to secure large-scale donations. Cathryn also dives into strategies for demonstrating a "return on impact" to funders, showcasing how nonprofits can measure success and make a compelling case for support. For those aiming to lead with confidence, she also discusses the significance of inclusive leadership and servant leadership, offering practical insights for building an effective organizational culture.  

"Great nonprofit leadership isn’t just about passion; it’s about learning from our mistakes."

ABOUT CATHRYN

Cathryn is Co-founder and President/CEO of Growing Good Inc., a professional services firm that partners with non-profit organizations and companies who aim to do good in the world. Cathryn has previously held key C-suite executive positions and board director and advisory positions for organizations in the areas of research, higher education, and across the non-profit sector tackling complex social issues from healthcare, education, diversity and gender equity, microfinance, green technology, and food insecurity. She has lived and worked on five continents; earned her Ph.D. in Social Science and Comparative Education from UCLA; and has led and conducted research on media and technology as it relates to health issues around the globe. She has been a keynote speaker at several international and domestic conferences, events, trainings, and featured in numerous media outlets.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• Gravitas: The 8 Strengths That Redefine Confidence by Lisa Sun
• Learn more about Cathryn and the work done at Growing Good
• Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership
• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire

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