15 Nonprofit Marketing Books Every Professional Should Read
In my years spent exploring the world of nonprofit marketing, I've devoured countless books on the subject—each offering unique insights and tactics. My passion for this field has not only been about practicing it but understanding its intricate nuances through literature. If you're looking to truly grasp the evolving landscape of nonprofit marketing, you're in the right place. I've filtered through the noise to curate a list of books that precisely cater to your needs.
Trust me—these are the resources that have shaped my thinking and can guide you in making impactful decisions in the nonprofit sector. Dive in, and let these expert selections illuminate your path.
15 Best Nonprofit Marketing Books
After diving deep into numerous reads, I've curated this list to bridge your nonprofit marketing knowledge gap:
- The Non-Profit Narrative: How Telling Stories Can Change the World by Dan Portnoy
- The Nonprofit Marketing Guide: High-Impact, Low-Cost Ways to Build Support for Your Good Cause by Kivi Leroux Miller
- Brandraising: How Nonprofits Raise Visibility and Money Through Smart Communications by Sarah Durham
- The Ultimate Guide to Facebook Marketing for Nonprofits: How to ATTRACT SUPPORTERS & Receive More CONTRIBUTIONS for Your NONPROFIT Through FACEBOOK by Richard Santos
- Nonprofit Fundraising Mastery 2-in-1 Collection: How to Write Winning Grant Proposals + 7 Fundraising Strategies to Consistently Secure Funding by James Ruell
- Nonprofit Social Media: A Beginner's Guide to Nurturing Donor Relationships from Your Desk by Marc Pitman
- Content Marketing for Nonprofits: A Communications Map for Engaging Your Community, Becoming a Favorite Cause, and Raising More Money by Kivi Leroux Miller
- Breakthrough Nonprofit Branding: Seven Principles to Power Extraordinary Results by Jocelyne Daw and Carol Cone
- Nonprofit Crowdfunding Explained: Online Fundraising Hacks by Salvador Briggman
- Charity Case: How the Nonprofit Community Can Stand Up for Itself and Really Change the World by Dan Pallotta
- The Future of Nonprofits: Thrive and Innovate in the Digital Age by David Neff and Randal C. Moss
- From the Ground Up: Digital Fundraising for Nonprofits by Brock Warner CFRE
- The Networked Nonprofit: Connecting with Social Media to Drive Change by Beth Kanter and Allison Fine
- Managing the Non-profit Organization: Principles and Practices by Peter F. Drucker
- Engine of Impact: Essentials of Strategic Leadership in the Nonprofit Sector by William F. Meehan III and Kim Starkey Jonker
Overviews Of The 15 Best Nonprofit Marketing Books
1. The Non-Profit Narrative: How Telling Stories Can Change the World by Dan Portnoy
Summary:
"The Non-Profit Narrative" is a compelling exploration into the art of storytelling for nonprofit organizations. Portnoy discusses the power of a well-crafted story in engaging donors, volunteers, and stakeholders and demonstrates how a poignant narrative can have a transformative impact on an organization's mission.
What You'll Learn:
How to craft and share compelling stories that resonate with your target audience, the importance of narratives in fundraising campaigns, and the strategies to engage and mobilize stakeholders through effective storytelling.
Why You Should Read It:
To understand the profound influence of storytelling in the nonprofit sector and gain insights into leveraging narratives to further organizational goals.
Quote From The Book:
"Stories are not just tales; they are the heartbeat of a nonprofit's mission."
About The Author:
Dan Portnoy is a narrative strategist with a passion for helping nonprofits excel in their missions. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.
2. The Nonprofit Marketing Guide: High-Impact, Low-Cost Ways to Build Support for Your Good Cause by Kivi Leroux Miller
Summary:
In "The Nonprofit Marketing Guide," Kivi Leroux Miller provides a comprehensive roadmap for nonprofit professionals looking to market their cause effectively without breaking the bank. She delves into actionable tactics that can amplify an organization's reach and foster robust community support.
What You'll Learn:
Practical strategies for nonprofit marketing on a budget, techniques to engage donors and supporters effectively, and innovative ways to build a strong brand presence in the nonprofit space.
Why You Should Read It:
To acquire hands-on marketing skills tailored for the unique challenges and opportunities faced by nonprofit organizations.
Quote From The Book:
"Marketing isn't about spending big; it's about connecting big."
About The Author:
Kivi Leroux Miller is a renowned nonprofit communications consultant and trainer. Interact with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, and her personal website.
3. Brandraising: How Nonprofits Raise Visibility and Money Through Smart Communications by Sarah Durham
Summary:
"Brandraising" sheds light on the synergies between branding and fundraising in the nonprofit landscape. Sarah Durham offers a strategic approach to bolstering nonprofit branding while simultaneously driving donations, engaging stakeholders, and furthering organizational objectives.
What You'll Learn:
The fundamentals of brandraising, its impact on donor engagement and fundraising, and a strategic framework to elevate a nonprofit's brand while fostering financial support.
Why You Should Read It:
To explore the interplay between branding and fundraising in the nonprofit sector and to harness marketing communication tools for enhanced organizational success.
Quote From The Book:
"A strong brand isn't just an image; it's the lifeline of fundraising."
About The Author:
Sarah Durham is a seasoned nonprofit communications expert and the founder of Big Duck, a firm specializing in nonprofit communications. Connect with her on LinkedIn and Twitter.
4. The Ultimate Guide to Facebook Marketing for Nonprofits: How to ATTRACT SUPPORTERS & Receive More CONTRIBUTIONS for Your NONPROFIT Through FACEBOOK by Richard Santos
Summary:
Richard Santos's guide is a deep dive into harnessing the power of Facebook for nonprofit endeavors. The book emphasizes the significance of social media in today's digital age and provides actionable strategies for nonprofits to maximize their reach, engage with supporters, and enhance their fundraising efforts using Facebook.
What You'll Learn:
How to optimize a nonprofit's Facebook profile for visibility and engagement, strategies to foster a loyal online community of supporters, and actionable techniques for effective fundraising through Facebook campaigns.
Why You Should Read It:
To understand and exploit the potential of Facebook as a dynamic platform for nonprofit organizations to drive support and funding.
Quote From The Book:
"Facebook is more than just a social platform; it's a gateway to a world of supporters."
About The Author:
Richard Santos is a social media strategist with a passion for empowering nonprofit organizations to reach their full potential online.
5. Nonprofit Fundraising Mastery 2-in-1 Collection: How to Write Winning Grant Proposals + 7 Fundraising Strategies to Consistently Secure Funding by James Ruell
Summary:
This two-in-one collection by James Ruell is a comprehensive resource for nonprofit professionals aiming to master fundraising. Ruell covers the art of crafting compelling grant proposals and shares valuable strategies to ensure consistent funding, offering insights from his extensive experience in the nonprofit fundraising arena.
What You'll Learn:
The intricacies of drafting a successful grant proposal, understanding the mindset of donors and grant organizations, and a repertoire of fundraising strategies to guarantee a consistent flow of financial support.
Why You Should Read It:
To garner essential skills and insights to elevate a nonprofit's fundraising game, ensuring both sustainability and growth.
Quote From The Book:
"Fundraising is an art; it's about building relationships, not just asking for money."
About The Author:
James Ruell is a fundraising expert with years of hands-on experience in driving financial support for diverse nonprofit organizations.
6. Nonprofit Social Media: A Beginner's Guide to Nurturing Donor Relationships from Your Desk by Marc Pitman
Summary:
Marc Pitman's "Nonprofit Social Media" is a primer for nonprofits venturing into the realm of online engagement. Pitman decodes the maze of social media platforms, offering nonprofits a strategic roadmap to nurture donor relationships virtually, ensuring consistent engagement and support.
What You'll Learn:
The basics of setting up and managing social media profiles for nonprofits, techniques to engage donors and supporters online, and strategies to foster long-term relationships through digital channels.
Why You Should Read It:
To transition into the digital age with confidence, utilizing social media platforms effectively to maintain and grow donor relationships.
Quote From The Book:
"In the digital age, your desk can be the bridge to your donors' hearts."
About The Author:
Marc Pitman is a renowned speaker, coach, and consultant in the nonprofit sector, specializing in fundraising and leadership.
7. Content Marketing for Nonprofits: A Communications Map for Engaging Your Community, Becoming a Favorite Cause, and Raising More Money by Kivi Leroux Miller
Summary:
Kivi Leroux Miller's guide is a comprehensive roadmap to harness the potential of content marketing for nonprofit organizations. This book offers a blueprint for nonprofits to communicate their stories effectively, engage their community, and elevate their status to become a favorite cause – ultimately leading to more funding and support.
What You'll Learn:
The book elucidates how to craft compelling content that resonates with the target audience, strategies for community engagement, and methods to optimize content marketing endeavors to maximize fundraising outcomes.
Why You Should Read It:
To learn and implement content marketing strategies tailored for nonprofits, ensuring enhanced community engagement and increased funding.
Quote From The Book:
"Content is not just words; it's the voice of your cause."
About The Author:
Kivi Leroux Miller is a content marketing maestro who specializes in the nonprofit sector. She aids organizations in refining their voice and amplifying their impact. Connect with her on LinkedIn and Twitter.
8. Breakthrough Nonprofit Branding: Seven Principles to Power Extraordinary Results by Jocelyne Daw and Carol Cone
Summary:
In "Breakthrough Nonprofit Branding," Daw and Cone present a step-by-step guide to building a potent nonprofit brand. Rooted in seven foundational principles, the book outlines strategies to differentiate, resonate with supporters, and achieve remarkable results in the nonprofit landscape.
What You'll Learn:
The seven crucial principles that form the bedrock of powerful nonprofit branding, practical insights to differentiate in a crowded market, and methods to resonate and engage deeply with donors and supporters.
Why You Should Read It:
To develop a robust nonprofit brand identity that differentiates, captivates, and propels the organization to new heights.
Quote From The Book:
"A brand isn't a logo; it's the promise you make and keep."
About The Author:
Jocelyne Daw and Carol Cone are seasoned experts in the domain of branding, with a particular focus on nonprofits. Their combined experience offers readers a wealth of knowledge. Engage with Jocelyne on LinkedIn and her website and Carol on LinkedIn, Twitter, and her personal website.
9. Nonprofit Crowdfunding Explained: Online Fundraising Hacks by Salvador Briggman
Summary:
Salvador Briggman delves into the world of online fundraising, exploring the intricacies of crowdfunding for nonprofit organizations. His guide provides actionable insights, strategies, and hacks to navigate the crowdfunding landscape and raise funds effectively.
What You'll Learn:
Key principles of successful crowdfunding, strategies to promote campaigns and maximize funding, and best practices to engage and captivate potential donors online.
Why You Should Read It:
To harness the crowdfunding avenue for raising funds, understanding its dynamics, and executing campaigns that resonate with potential donors.
Quote From The Book:
"Crowdfunding is not about asking for money; it's about making people part of your mission."
About The Author:
Salvador Briggman is a crowdfunding enthusiast and expert, aiding nonprofit organizations in leveraging online platforms for fundraising. Interact with him on LinkedIn, Twitter, and his personal website.
10. Charity Case: How the Nonprofit Community Can Stand Up for Itself and Really Change the World by Dan Pallotta
Summary:
"Charity Case" is Dan Pallotta's clarion call for the nonprofit sector to rise, restructure, and revolutionize its approach to making impactful changes in the world. The book argues that for charities to truly make a difference, they need to challenge traditional norms, be bolder in their aspirations, and think in radically new ways.
What You'll Learn:
Pallotta emphasizes the need for nonprofits to adopt the innovation and risk-taking typically associated with the business world. He also addresses the societal misconceptions about overhead costs, advocating for investing in talent and marketing to maximize impact.
Why You Should Read It:
For a fresh perspective on how nonprofits can drastically increase their impact and challenge the outdated paradigms that often hold them back.
Quote From The Book:
"Our generation does not want its epitaph to read, 'We kept charity overhead low.' We want it to read that we changed the world."
About The Author:
Dan Pallotta is a renowned speaker and author who champions transforming the way society views charities and nonprofit efficiency. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.
11. The Future of Nonprofits: Thrive and Innovate in the Digital Age by David Neff and Randal C. Moss
Summary:
Neff and Moss's "The Future of Nonprofits" is a forward-looking examination of how nonprofits can flourish in the digital age. This guide helps nonprofit leaders anticipate the changes technology can bring and adapt accordingly, ensuring their organizations remain relevant, effective, and impactful.
What You'll Learn:
Readers will gain insights into harnessing digital tools, techniques, and strategies for innovation. The book also delves into organizational change, shedding light on how to infuse agility and adaptability into the nonprofit structure.
Why You Should Read It:
To gain a comprehensive understanding of the technological shifts and how they impact nonprofit operations, ensuring a future-ready approach.
Quote From The Book:
"Innovation is not about technology; it's about a mindset."
About The Author:
David Neff and Randal C. Moss are thought leaders in the nonprofit digital space, combining their experiences to guide organizations through the digital age.
12. From the Ground Up: Digital Fundraising for Nonprofits by Brock Warner, CFRE
Summary:
Brock Warner's guide is a comprehensive dive into digital fundraising, helping nonprofits leverage online platforms for maximum donations. "From the Ground Up" demystifies the digital fundraising process, providing actionable strategies and tools for success.
What You'll Learn:
Warner offers a step-by-step approach to building and refining an online fundraising strategy, from donor engagement tactics to analyzing campaign data for continual improvement.
Why You Should Read It:
For nonprofits looking to amplify their fundraising efforts using digital channels, this book provides the roadmap to achieve just that.
Quote From The Book:
"Digital fundraising isn't just about technology; it's about connecting deeply, one click at a time."
About The Author:
Brock Warner, CFRE is a fundraising strategist with deep expertise in the digital realm, assisting nonprofits in navigating the online fundraising landscape. Connect with him on LinkedIn, Twitter, and his personal website.
13. The Networked Nonprofit: Connecting with Social Media to Drive Change by Beth Kanter and Allison Fine
Summary:
"The Networked Nonprofit" offers an insightful look into how modern nonprofits can, and should, harness the power of social media to drive change. Kanter and Fine present a compelling case for nonprofits to break down walls, engage with their communities online, and harness the collaborative power of networks to achieve their missions.
What You'll Learn:
This book dives deep into the strategies and tactics of using social media effectively for nonprofit objectives. It covers topics such as creating transparency, building relationships, and using the online space to facilitate meaningful engagement and change.
Why You Should Read It:
If you're interested in understanding how nonprofits can maximize the potential of social media and online networks to boost their impact and reach, this is a must-read.
Quote From The Book:
"Social media doesn't transform organizations—networked organizations use social media for transformative change."
About The Author:
Beth Kanter is a social media strategist for nonprofits, while Allison Fine is an expert in leveraging digital tools for social change. Connect with Beth on LinkedIn, Twitter, and her personal website. Engage with Allison on LinkedIn.
14. Managing the Non-profit Organization: Principles and Practices by Peter F. Drucker
Summary:
Peter F. Drucker's guide provides timeless insights on how to manage a nonprofit organization with efficiency, effectiveness, and purpose. The book draws upon Drucker's extensive experience and expertise, offering principles and practices that are fundamental for nonprofit leaders.
What You'll Learn:
Drucker covers a range of topics, including leadership, mission, performance metrics, and building relationships. He emphasizes the unique challenges and opportunities that come with managing a nonprofit and offers actionable solutions.
Why You Should Read It:
For those in the nonprofit sector, this is a classic that provides foundational knowledge and principles for effective marketing management and the creation of effective marketing plans and marketing programs.
Quote From The Book:
"The leaders of organizations that serve a mission and therefore have to provide community leadership must be effective. Otherwise, they waste the most precious resource society has."
About The Author:
Peter F. Drucker, hailed as the father of modern management, has penned numerous influential books on leadership, management, and society.
15. Engine of Impact: Essentials of Strategic Leadership in the Nonprofit Sector by William F. Meehan III and Kim Starkey Jonker
Summary:
In "Engine of Impact", Meehan and Jonker delve into the components necessary for nonprofits to achieve significant impact. They explore the aspects of strategic leadership that drive successful organizations, helping them create a lasting difference in their communities.
What You'll Learn:
The authors present a clear model for achieving maximum impact, focusing on mission, strategy, and resource alignment. They also share insights into fundraising, governance, and the importance of a rigorous focus on results.
Why You Should Read It:
If you're seeking a comprehensive understanding of how strategic leadership can propel nonprofit organizations to achieve their missions with greater efficacy, this book is for you.
Quote From The Book:
"Without strong leadership, even the most well-endowed and well-intentioned nonprofits will drift into a state of low performance."
About The Author:
William F. Meehan III and Kim Starkey Jonker are recognized experts in the nonprofit sector, guiding organizations toward greater impact. Connect with William on LinkedIn.
Which Nonprofit Marketing Books Do You Recommend?
If you've come across impactful nonprofit marketing books that aren't on this list, we'd appreciate your recommendations. Your insights enrich this collective knowledge.