Argenta Blog

Articles, ideas, and updates for nonprofit teams.

Membership Tiers and Dues: How to Set Up Levels for Your Nonprofit

How to choose your nonprofit's membership tiers, set the dues for each one, decide what members get at every level and handle renewals, with a sample tier struc…

Nov 2, 2026

Nonprofit Management

Nonprofit Business Plan Template: 10 Sections to Fill In

A free nonprofit business plan template with ten sections and plain prompts to fill in, from the executive summary to the budget, impact and risks.

Oct 26, 2026

Fundraising

Run Your Auction Night From One Screen

Argenta now runs the live part of an auction night: mark your live items, hand out bidder numbers, record each hammer price as it falls, then bill every guest o…

Sep 8, 2026

Nonprofit Management

Why Nonprofits Need Surveys (and What to Do With the Answers)

Surveys tell a nonprofit what donors, volunteers, and program participants actually think. Here's when to run one, what to ask, and how it works in Argenta.

Aug 27, 2026

Volunteers

What Your Volunteer Hours Are Worth, and Where You Can Actually Use the Number

A volunteer hour is valued at $36.14. Here is where a nonprofit can legitimately use that number, where the IRS and GAAP say it cannot go, and why a federal gra…

Aug 23, 2026

Nonprofit Management

You're the New Executive Director. These Are the 9 Documents to Demand in Week One.

Nobody hands a new executive director the bad news on day one. Here are the nine documents to ask for in week one, what each one actually tells you, and the fou…

Aug 12, 2026

Nonprofit Technology

When Should a Nonprofit Switch Donor Management Software?

Five signals it is time to switch donor management software, five signals it is not, what a migration actually costs, and how to move without losing your giving…

Aug 10, 2026

All About Argenta

How a County Fair Got Its Ticketing Online in a Day

The Chief Mason Griffith Foundation needed to sell multi-day fair tickets online, and needed it the same day. What we built for them, and what it now does for a…

Jul 20, 2026

Nonprofit Accounting

What Breaks When Your Accounting and Fundraising Systems Don't Talk

Disconnected accounting and donor systems cost more than duplicate data entry. Nine specific failures, from the liquidity disclosure you cannot produce to condi…

Jul 20, 2026

Nonprofit Technology

Can AI Write Grant Proposals Without Making Up Your Numbers?

Yes, AI can draft a full grant proposal, and the real risk isn't speed, it's invented numbers. Here's how AI grant writing works, and why a grant writer built i…

Jul 20, 2026

Fundraising

Affordable Fundraising Software: What It Really Costs

The monthly price is only part of it. See what fundraising software really costs a small nonprofit once you add the fee taken from every gift.

Jul 10, 2026

Nonprofit Technology

How to Manage Donors, Volunteers, and Events in One Platform

Managing donors, volunteers, and events in one platform means using all-in-one nonprofit software, where all three share one contact record. Here's how it works…

Jul 7, 2026

Fundraising

The Year-End Giving Playbook: How to Plan Your Biggest Fundraising Push

December brings a large share of the year's donations, but only for the nonprofits that plan for it. Here is how to run a year-end giving campaign start to fini…

Jul 2, 2026

Nonprofit Technology

How to Segment Your Donors to Raise More Money (Without Overcomplicating It)

Sending the same appeal to every donor quietly costs you money. Donor segmentation fixes it: group your donors, match the message to each group, and raise more…

Jun 29, 2026

Nonprofit Technology

How to Clean Up a Messy Donor Database (Without Losing the History You Need)

A messy donor database costs you real money in wrong thank-yous, missed asks, and totals you can't trust. Here's how to clean one up in the right order: back up…

Jun 27, 2026

Fundraising

How to Plan a Nonprofit Fundraising Event, Start to Finish

Fundraising events can be your biggest revenue night or an expensive scramble. Here is how to plan one start to finish: pick the right format, build a budget th…

Jun 26, 2026

Fundraising

How to Run a Nonprofit Auction That Actually Raises Money

An auction can be your biggest night of the year or a stressful one that nets less than the effort. Here's how to plan the items, price the bids, run a strong f…

Jun 24, 2026

Nonprofit Technology

How to Keep Donor History When You Switch Nonprofit Software

Switching your church or nonprofit to a new giving platform? Keep donor history, recurring gifts and restricted funds intact, and know what to ask first.

Jun 17, 2026

Nonprofit Technology

How to Choose Nonprofit Software Without Getting Burned

Picking or switching nonprofit software is high-stakes and easy to get wrong. Here are the honest questions to ask any vendor before you commit, and what a good…

Jun 10, 2026

Nonprofit Technology

Too Many Disconnected Tools: What a Patchwork Setup Really Costs Your Nonprofit

Donations in one app, email in another, the books in a spreadsheet. The real cost of disconnected nonprofit tools is the staff time, the bad numbers, and the do…

Jun 9, 2026

Fundraising

Donor Retention: How to Turn First-Time Givers Into Lifelong Supporters

Most first-time donors never give again. Here is why they leave, and five practical ways to keep them, from the thank-you to the second gift.

Jun 2, 2026

Volunteers

Why Volunteers Stop Showing Up (and How to Keep Them)

About one in three volunteers does not return each year. Here is why they leave, and the small habits that keep the good ones coming back.

May 27, 2026

Nonprofit Technology

What to Look For in Nonprofit Software: A Buyer's Checklist That Saves You From a Bad Fit

You choose nonprofit software rarely and live with it for years. Here is a practical checklist of what actually matters, the questions to make every vendor answ…

Apr 30, 2026

Grants

Grant Management: How to Stop Losing Grants to Missed Deadlines

Writing the proposal gets all the attention. Managing the deadlines and the reporting after you win is where nonprofits quietly lose grants they earned. Here is…

Apr 15, 2026

Nonprofit Technology

How AI is Transforming the Nonprofit Sector and How to Get Started

82% of nonprofits already use AI for daily operations. If you're still on the fence, you're falling behind. This article breaks down what AI actually does for n…

Feb 15, 2026

Nonprofit Technology

The Future Is Hybrid - SaaS + AI Building Trust Not Hype

AI isn’t killing SaaS. It’s making it smarter. The next decade belongs to builders who blend human judgment with machine intelligence, creating systems that thi…

Nov 9, 2025

Nonprofit Management

Tips for Getting Started with Government Grants

If you're in charge of getting funding for your nonprofit, federal grants are important. In this article I'll give you a few facts you need to know in order to…

Aug 5, 2025

Nonprofit Management

Drowning in Good Intentions: Why Nonprofit Directors Are Burning Out Fast

Nonprofit executive directors are drowning. Despite passionate missions and dedicated teams, 95% report serious burnout concerns while juggling impossible workl…

Jul 19, 2025

All About Argenta

8 Simple Ways to Collaborate with your Team in Argenta

Whether you have a small or large team, communication and collaboration are key to success for any nonprofit. Did you know there are several ways to effectively…

Dec 21, 2024

Nonprofit Accounting

Are Fundraiser and Raffle Tickets Tax-Deductible?

How much of a fundraiser ticket is tax-deductible, why raffle tickets aren't, and what your nonprofit files when someone wins a raffle prize.

Nov 27, 2024

Nonprofit Accounting

Nonprofit Financial Planning and Analysis

Budgeting, forecasting, analysis, and strategic planning are all part of a successful fiscal year. In this article we'll discuss the importance of financial pla…

Sep 5, 2024

Nonprofit Management

Writing an Effective Grant Proposal

In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide for writing a grant proposal. Learn the key components needed to craft a compelling and well-structured propos…

Jun 3, 2024

Nonprofit Management

Harness the Power of Data with Nonprofit Management Software

In this article I'll talk about the critical role of data in nonprofit management, providing insights into how leveraging data can enhance decision-making, impr…

May 15, 2024

Nonprofit Technology

Optimizing Volunteer Management with AI

Volunteers are essential for everything from programs to fundraising events. Nonprofit managers should be equipped to transform challenges into opportunities, c…

Apr 22, 2024

Nonprofit Management

The Benefits of Nonprofit Accreditation: What You Need to Know

Nonprofit accreditation is a crucial indicator of excellence and reliability for your organization. This article serves as an essential guide to understanding t…

Jan 30, 2024

Grants

Empowering Nonprofits: A Comprehensive Guide to Technology Grants

In this article I'll provide you with information on technology grants for nonprofits. Many of Argenta's customers have their subscriptions fully funded by one…

Jan 13, 2024

Nonprofit Management

Writing and Implementing Policies and Procedures for a Nonprofit

Whether you're starting a new nonprofit or looking to refine the governance of your existing organization, writing and implementing well-crafted policies and pr…

Dec 22, 2023

Nonprofit Management

Tackling Nonprofit Challenges with Creative Solutions

Nonprofit Challenges: Tackle tough issues with creative solutions. Learn how to identify common issues, manage financial constraints, utilize tech & volunteers,…

Jul 22, 2023

Nonprofit Management

Running A Successful Nonprofit Organization: Tips and Tricks from Established Nonprofits

In this article we'll discuss strategies that have been used successfully by established nonprofits. We'll also offer practical tips on how these techniques can…

Jul 14, 2023

Community Outreach

Ways to Support Your Local Food Bank: Beyond Monetary Donations

Supporting your neighborhood food bank is crucial in combating food instability. While financial contributions are vital, there are various other ways to contri…

Jun 16, 2023

Grants

Impactful Grant Writing: Securing Funds for Nonprofit Programs and Projects

Grant writing plays a crucial role in the success and sustainability of a nonprofit. It serves as a strategic tool for securing essential funding to support mis…

Jun 13, 2023

Nonprofit Accounting

Navigating Complexities: Tips for Streamlining Nonprofit Fund Accounting Processes

Nonprofit fund accounting involves tracking and managing multiple funding sources, adhering to donor restrictions, and ensuring transparency and accountability.…

May 30, 2023

Nonprofit Management

8 Tips for Facilitating Policy Development Discussions in Your County Committee

Leaders of a county political committee are often involved with facilitating policy development discussions. Knowing how to go about it is a critical skill. Her…

May 19, 2023

Fundraising

10 Proven Strategies to Successfully Raise Funds for Your Nonprofit Organization

In this blog post, we will unveil ten proven strategies to help your nonprofit organization raise the funds it needs to thrive. From engaging your community to…

May 12, 2023

Nonprofit Management

Make a Lasting Impact: Encouraging Recurring Donations for Nonprofits

Discover how recurring donations can transform your nonprofit organization's fundraising efforts. Recurring donations offer a predictable and cost-effective sou…

Apr 30, 2023

Nonprofit Technology

Empowering Nonprofits with AI: Innovative Ways A Nonprofit Can Use Chat GPT To Engage with Supporters

In this article we list a few ways nonprofits can use Chat GPT and AI to engage supporters.

Mar 19, 2023

Nonprofit Management

Make A Difference: How to Find the Best Volunteers for Your Nonprofit

As a nonprofit organization, you rely on volunteers to help you achieve your mission and make a positive impact on your community, but finding the right volunte…

Feb 27, 2023

Nonprofit Management

The Secret to Successful Political Fundraising in an Era of High Inflation

Raising money for your political committee is always challenging especially if you’re new to the process. When inflation is very high it can seem impossible. Do…

Feb 9, 2023

Nonprofit Management

How Political and Nonprofit Organizations Can Become Recession-Proof

Inflation has a direct impact on donor contributions because supporters have less to give. Political and nonprofit organizations have higher costs to maintain p…

Sep 7, 2022

Fundraising

How to Build a Donor Base from the Ground Up

Without donors your non-profit wouldn’t exist. They support your cause and make a difference by donating their support, time and money. This article provides an…

Jan 31, 2022

Nonprofit Management

How to Kickstart Your Nonprofit Engagement Strategy

Discover 5 effective ways to kickstart your nonprofit engagement strategy, from proactive audience segmentation to prudent influencer marketing and more.

Nov 2, 2021

Nonprofit Technology

Benefits of Creating A Digital Culture At Your Nonprofit

In the world we live in, you must be present online to make your program a success. Everything went digital, and now, this is the only way your non-profit can r…

Oct 16, 2021

Nonprofit Management

Mistakes Nonprofits Make When Getting Started

Successfully starting a nonprofit can offer immense fulfillment. It is a notable, commendable feat from logistics to management and from marketing to action. Ho…

Aug 25, 2021

Nonprofit Management

How Can a Nonprofit Boost Its Visibility?

From SEO and social media marketing to diversification and collaboration, discover how a nonprofit can boost its visibility.

May 19, 2021

Nonprofit Management

Challenges That May Impact The Nonprofit Sector In 2021

We've left 2020 behind with hopes for a brighter future. However, these few months of 2021 are proving that nonprofits will need more than just hope. Challenges…

Apr 24, 2021

Nonprofit Marketing

How to Segment Audiences as a Non-Profit Organization

There are as many ways to segment audiences as a non-profit organization as there are reasons to. This short list covers both.

Feb 4, 2021

Fundraising

Crowdfunding vs. Peer-to-Peer Fundraising: Which One Is Right for You?

If your nonprofit is in need of funding you may want to try crowdfunding, but what is the difference between this and peer-to-peer fundraising and which one is…

Dec 14, 2020

Grants

Why And How Nonprofits Should Be Applying for Federal Grants Right Now

In this article we'll talk about federal grants and why nonprofits should make it a high priority to apply for them. It's hard enough being responsible for fund…

Dec 11, 2020

Fundraising

Creative Ways To Raise Money for Your Nonprofit During A Pandemic

Fundraising isn’t easy, even in the best of times. A global pandemic has made things much harder, but there are a few innovative ways you can prosper despite th…

Jul 30, 2020

Grants

How to Leverage Google Ad Grants for Outreach

Online advertising is a must for nonprofits, but it can be confusing and expensive. Google has a solution that can help. In this article we'll introduce you to…

Jul 1, 2019

All About Argenta

Getting Started with Nonprofit Marketing

Marketing is not just sending out an email or mailing a post card. There are many different avenues to get the word out about your programs, products or service…

Jun 12, 2019

Nonprofit Marketing

Four Ways to Revitalize Nonprofit Memberships

Membership Sign Ups can be hard to come by– especially in a market where every website, group and organization seems to be vying for members. While people want…

Feb 12, 2018

Nonprofit Management

A Starter Guide for Launching A Nonprofit

Nonprofits have enriched, and even saved the lives of millions in need, but there's still so much more to be done. Maybe you've decided to start your own nonpro…

Jan 16, 2018

All About Argenta

5 New Argenta Features That Will Make You More Productive This Year

Nonprofit directors are best known for wearing all the hats in their organizations. If you want to be more productive this year, give Argenta a second look. Her…

Jan 6, 2018

Nonprofit Management

Seven Tips for Building a Nonprofit Partnership Network

Nonprofit Partnership Networks are creating a lot of buzz as of late – and with good reason. Just like for-profit business partnerships, all sides mutually bene…

Jan 2, 2018

Fundraising

5 Easy Ways To Fight Back Against Donor Fatigue

Have you noticed a change in your donors’ behavior? It could be donor fatigue, the point where your donor base has become mentally and emotionally tired of your…

Dec 5, 2017

Volunteers

How to Avoid Volunteer Burnout

At some point in life, we all experience burnout. Even your most dedicated volunteers can become a little tired of the routine. Here are some helpful ideas on h…

Nov 28, 2017

Nonprofit Management

6 Tips for Becoming a Highly Successful Executive Director

Being an Executive Director is challenging. It can mean long hours and many frustrations, but it can also be equally rewarding. The position requires excellent…

Apr 18, 2017

Nonprofit Management

Nonprofit Scandals. How to Avoid a Scandal of Your Own, and What to Do If You Don’t

There has been no shortage of nonprofit scandals in the media lately. Here are some areas to focus on to help you avoid a scandal, and some ideas on how to reco…

Mar 17, 2017

Grants

Tips for Writing the Sustainability Component of a Nonprofit Grant

The Grant’s Sustainability Component is the piece that helps your potential funder understand how you will continue the program beyond the initial funding sourc…

Feb 3, 2017

Nonprofit Management

7 Essentials for Working Effectively with Your Board

When you work with a group of passionate board members who have the same ideas on how to complete projects and share similar benchmarks for mission goals, the g…

Jan 17, 2017

Volunteers

8 Things to Consider When Recruiting Volunteers

Recruiting people who share your vision and the passion you have for your program is a process that requires commitment of energy, time, persistence and creativ…

Jan 10, 2017

Fundraising

6 Effective Fundraising Tips for New Non-profits

There are many things you need to know when starting a nonprofit, but one very important thing is how to raise funds to get your mission off the ground.

Oct 1, 2016

Nonprofit Marketing

5 Steps to Creating Effective Staff Pages for Your Nonprofit’s Website

As a nonprofit, the most important assets you have are your relationships. Not only should you have a very clear understanding of who your constituents are, but…

Aug 24, 2016

Fundraising

5 Tips for Asking Your Constituents for Donations

When it comes to asking for financial contributions, many nonprofit fundraisers feel overwhelmed. It can be difficult and intimidating to ask for someone’s hard…

Jun 27, 2016

Social Media For Nonprofits

A To Do List for Nonprofits Who Want To Start Using Twitter

Nonprofit Organizations have taken longer to get started on Twitter than small businesses, and even those who use Twitter do it sporadically, without any consis…

Jun 10, 2016

Social Media For Nonprofits

5 Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make with Facebook

Building and managing a strong social media marketing plan is important for every organization, including nonprofits. In many cases mistakes are made when build…

Jun 7, 2016

Nonprofit Management

5 Legal Mistakes Nonprofits Should Avoid

Attorneys who work with nonprofit organizations know all too well some of the mistakes nonprofits can make. By the time they seek legal advice it’s usually too…

May 5, 2016

Social Media For Nonprofits

How To Easily Create Content for Your Busy Nonprofit

Writing blog articles and site content takes more man hours than you might think, and for that reason it often gets put on hold. The typical alternative is to e…

Apr 22, 2016

Grants

5 Grant Writing Tips That Will Get You Funded

Many nonprofits never apply for grants because the process can seem a bit overwhelming. While it's true, grant writing can be pretty difficult, there are some t…

Apr 9, 2016

Social Media For Nonprofits

8 Great Blogging Tips To Help Engage Your Constituent Base

Nonprofits can use a blog to engage their constituents. Here are a few tips on how to blog for engagement.

Apr 3, 2016

All About Argenta

5 Important Reasons Nonprofits Need Software

Traditionally software has been very expensive. You had to purchase a boxed copy and install it on a server so members of your team could share data and collabo…

Apr 2, 2016

Social Media For Nonprofits

Using Social Media To Grow Your Donor Base

The most important part of Social Media, is cultivating relationships online. Just like in our daily lives, relationship is key. Here are some simple techniques…

Mar 4, 2016