2025 Summer Break | July 1-7
MNA will be closed July 1-7, 2025, for our annual summer break so staff can rest and recharge.
You Got Your 501c3—now what? This is a question many new nonprofit founders ask themselves: What’s the next step? Dr. Orletta Caldwell, a nonprofit consultant, MNA business member, and owner of Beyond Existing Enterprises, has some advice. In today’s challenging environment where federal funding is being reduced, nonprofits nationwide are actively searching for new sources of funding. Caldwell’s expertise lies in helping organizations get their start and set up a strong foundation. And when it comes to diversifying funding sources, Caldwell’s answer may surprise you---she says her solution isn’t sexy, but simple: “Build up your community.”
She explains, “An individual, if they are sold on your mission, will donate to it. But you’ve got to create that community. So yes, it’s a slower process, and it’s not going to be a quick pivot from the grants, but that’s what’s going to keep everybody sustainable, building their communities and getting those individual dollars.”
When it comes to finding funding, Caldwell stresses the importance of starting with your board. “Nine times out of ten, nobody on the board has donated to the nonprofit,” she says. Board members, she points out, have a legal obligation of care, duty, and loyalty to the organization. “Board members need to invest in the nonprofit where they have a board seat. They are investing in the mission, and the return is watching the impact,” she said.
Next, she encourages startups to build strong networks. “You’ve got to raise money through networking,” Caldwell advises. New nonprofits may need to reassess their board, determine how much they can contribute, and expand their reach. “If they have to do crowdfunding and create a full fundraising strategy—which includes individual donors, grants, and all the other stuff—that’s just the reality,” she says.
While the process may not be easy, Caldwell is there to help. “I’ll help you navigate it; that’s part of my service,” she said.
Starting and sustaining a nonprofit takes time, patience, and strategic planning. Caldwell also emphasizes that nonprofits should view themselves as businesses, rooted in their mission. “Too many people that go into the nonprofit world don’t think of it as a business. I literally don’t even call nonprofits ‘nonprofits.’ I call them mission-based because everything emanates from that mission. People don’t even want to talk about their mission and vision. But I’m like, if you don’t know where you’re going, how are you going to build the strategy?”
With Caldwell’s guidance, Michigan nonprofits can learn how to lay a strong foundation, raise essential funds, and build community.
Caldwell will be hosting a *FREE* webinar on June 10th for Michigan nonprofits.
To learn more about her services: Beyond Existing Enterprises.
Now is the perfect time to join MNA’s network. Whether you're a nonprofit or a business owner, there are valuable benefits to becoming a member. For more information about membership, please contact our Membership Manager, Erecenia Friday, at efriday@mnaonline.org.