Strategic Communications for Nonprofits

Telling your story is vital to fundraising and building awareness of your organization’s mission. A compelling story told to the right audience is what you need to be effective. During the week-long Strategic Communications Institute for Nonprofits, you will learn to pull all of the pieces together to create a successful marketing plan for your organization whether the focus is to raise money or awareness of your mission.

The Strategic Communications Institute for Nonprofits is specially designed for both fundraising and marketing professionals, career switchers and program staff who want to learn more to enhance their careers. This is especially useful for fundraisers who work for a small nonprofit without a separate marketing role or department. Our classes are taught by marketing professionals who are experts in their fields and share the real-world knowledge as well as their love of fundraising.

Institute Overview

Strong communication is vital to the success of nonprofit organizations. Having a thorough understanding of communications helps nonprofits make the most of limited resources. The Strategic Communications for Nonprofits program is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of marketing basics, effective communication and promotion.

The Strategic Communications Institute for Nonprofits is an intensive 24-hour, week-long certification program. During the week, you’ll create a comprehensive marketing plan for your organization. At the conclusion of the program, you’ll practice presenting your plan and earn a professional certificate from the University of Richmond.

Outcomes

  • Build a comprehensive communications and marketing plan for your organization, integrated with fundraising
  • Identify your audiences and reach them with the appropriate messages
  • Learn to develop stories to share your mission and impact
  • Learn how to effectively integrate social media tools into your marketing plan
  • Formulate a direct marketing plan to make the most of your direct mail versus “e” dollars

Modules

The following modules are required in the certification institute.

  • Introduction to Marketing
  • Assessing Your Organization and Market
  • Developing Your Marketing Strategies
  • Identifying Your Audiences
  • Telling Your Story
    • Special Events
    • Public Relations & Promotion Tactics
  • Measuring and Communicating Results
  • Putting Your Strategy into a Plan
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CFRE Approved

Approved provider for continuing education — Full participation in IOP courses is applicable for points in Category 1.B - Education of the CFRE International application for initial certification and/or recertification based on the number of contact hours listed for the class.