For Small (and Very Small) Nonprofits

Revised and expanded in 2025The Little Book of Gold is dedicated to helping small (and very small) non-profits unlock their fundraising potential. Avoid common pitfalls and get tips on proven methods that work. This short guide helps new Executive Directors, active board chairs, and other key staff in charge of fundraising to learn the basics of professional and sustainable fundraising. Geared specifically for non-profits with small and very small budgets (a few hundred thousand dollars a year down to the smallest budgets).What's New in the Second EditionUpdated for Modern FundraisingThis edition includes comprehensive guidance on online donations, recurring gifts, mobile payments, and email campaigns-all integrated seamlessly with the book's proven low-cost approach.Enhanced Digital StrategyLearn how to set up donation forms that actually convert, use QR codes for easy giving, and leverage email for cultivation without overwhelming your donors. Plus updated guidance on donor databases and payment processing for today's digital-first world.Deeper Implementation GuidanceThe core strategies remain the same, but now with more detailed timelines, troubleshooting tips, and step-by-step checklists. Follow along as "Linda" at the Smallville Historical Society implements each strategy with even more specific guidance on execution.Expanded Coverage of Major TopicsMore comprehensive event planning informationEnhanced donor cultivation and stewardship strategiesMore guidance on when and how to hire development staffExpanded section on grant writing and foundation researchNew coverage of planned giving and capital campaignsStill the Same Practical ApproachDespite the updates, this remains the same focused, actionable guide that tens of thousands of small nonprofits have used to transform their fundraising. The "little book" philosophy stays intact-just better equipped for 2025 and beyond. Erik Hanberg has been a writer all his life. He lives in Tacoma Washington with his wife Mary and two children.In addition to writing novels, Erik Hanberg is an expert in nonprofit management, fundraising, marketing, and leadership. His books for nonprofits have sold more than 10,000 copies.He has served as the director of two nonprofits, the interim executive director of two more, and served in positions in marketing and fundraising. He has been on more than twelve boards. In addition, he has consulted with nonprofit boards and staff of dozens and dozens of nonprofits and foundations across the country.

Are you new to a board and have no idea what's expected of you? Do you know what a board's six key responsibilities are? Do you know what your relationship with the Executive Director should be? If not, this book is for you.So many board members-especially of small nonprofits-want to support a nonprofit and readily accept the invitation to join the board. It's only then that they discover they are in over their heads, with no idea of their expectations and responsibilities. The Little Book of Boards is here to throw that drowning board member a rope.Told with a conversational style, this book will lead you through the basics of being on a board, how meetings work, and what's expected between meetings. In addition, at the back of the book are several in-depth resources for understanding Roberts Rules of Order, bylaws, committee structures, board leadership, and much more. Perfect for any new board member-or for an entire board that is feeling lost-this book and its common sense approach will serve you every year you are on the board. Erik Hanberg has been a writer all his life. He lives in Tacoma Washington with his wife Mary and two children.In addition to writing novels, Erik Hanberg is an expert in nonprofit management, fundraising, marketing, and leadership. His books for nonprofits have sold more than 10,000 copies.He has served as the director of two nonprofits, the interim executive director of two more, and served in positions in marketing and fundraising. He has been on more than twelve boards. In addition, he has consulted with nonprofit boards and staff of dozens and dozens of nonprofits and foundations across the country.