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My First Million

My First Million

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Raise $1M+ for nonprofit in first year

Nonprofit founders with compelling missions and some media attention

12 months

What Success Looks Like

Consistent monthly fundraising of $80k+ from corporate sponsors and individual donors who become long-term supporters

Steps to Execute

1

Identify executives who share your mission's values (runners for running nonprofits)

2

Get media coverage to establish credibility and story

3

Make specific, calculated asks ($2,450 for specific outcomes)

4

Always ask for introductions to 2-3 more prospects

5

Offer corporate speaking opportunities to reach entire companies

6

Focus on decision-makers, not coordinators

7

Create board positions for major donors

Checklist

Research executive backgrounds and personal interests
Prepare specific dollar amounts tied to outcomes
Have introduction request ready for every meeting
Create compelling speaking presentation
Develop corporate partnership benefits
Track all connections and follow-ups

Inputs Needed

  • Compelling personal story and mission
  • Initial media coverage or credibility
  • Research on target donor companies and executives
  • Specific program costs and outcomes

Outputs

  • Steady monthly donation commitments
  • Board of high-level executives
  • Corporate partnership opportunities
  • Referral network for ongoing fundraising

Example

“A youth education nonprofit founder targets tech executives who care about education, gets featured in TechCrunch, then uses that credibility to book coffee meetings where they ask for $5k donations plus introductions to 2 other executives.”