Empowering Nonprofits. Inspiring Philanthropy. Building a more Resilient Northern Nevada.
The Philanthropy in Practice program is designed to help nonprofits unlock their fundraising potential and connect with donors in powerful new ways.
About Philanthropy in Practice
Through an intensive series of trainings and coaching experiences, nonprofit leaders learn how to tell their story with clarity, confidence, and data. Culminating in a public pitch event that brings together funders, donors, and community members.
This program is more than training, it’s a springboard to lasting capacity, stronger donor relationships, and a more resilient nonprofit sector.
Program Structure
Over the course of five months, selected nonprofit leaders participate in a blend of group learning, one-on-one support, and real-world practice opportunities.
Core Training Sessions
- Fundraising Readiness & Pitch Basics – Build a strong foundation for your case for support
- Data Storytelling & Impact Communication – Use data to connect with donors emotionally and logically
- Marketing & Messaging – Create consistent, compelling messages across all platforms
- Volunteer Engagement & Donor Cultivation – Turn supporters into champions for your cause
Pitch Practice & Coaching
Between sessions, participants work with coaches and practice pitches with service clubs, donor networks, and peer groups — building comfort, confidence, and momentum.
Public Showcase Events
The program culminates in the Pitch Showcases, where participants deliver their refined 3-minute pitch to an audience of donors, funders, and community influencers.
Program Benefits
Participants will:
- Sharpen their fundraising skills through structured, hands-on training
- Build donor-ready messaging that inspires giving and long-term engagement
- Expand networks by connecting with community leaders, service clubs, and potential funders
- Receive tailored coaching from fundraising and communications experts
- Earn a capacity-building grant to implement strategies learned during the program
Capacity-Building Grants
Each organization will receive a $500 grant to invest directly in fundraising and capacity-building efforts identified during the program. This is intended to help ensure that the learning turns into measurable action.
What to expect
2025-2026 Key Dates
Oct 2, 2025 – Fast Pitch Launch & Meet & Greet
Oct 9, 2025 – Session #1: Fundraising Readiness & Pitch Training
Nov 6, 2025 – Session #2: Data Storytelling & Pitch Training
Dec 11, 2025 – Session #3: Marketing & Messaging & Pitch Training
Jan 7, 2026 – Session #4: Volunteer Engagement & Pitch Training
Jan 2026 – Small-Scale Practice Showcases
Feb 2026 – Pitch Showcase Event
Additional Requirements
Technical assistance sessions, one-on-one pitch coaching, and practice pitch events will be scheduled separately and are mandatory for participants. These will take place between October 2025 and February 2026.
Who should apply and how to get involved
Who Should Apply
- Executive Directors, Development Directors, or equivalent nonprofit leaders.
- Organizations headquartered or primarily serving Northern Nevada.
- 501(c)(3) public charities or fiscally sponsored organizations.
- Organizations able to commit to all required educational sessions and the final Pitch Showcase.
- Have an annual operating budget between $250k-$5 million
- Demonstrate a commitment to strengthening individual donor engagement and fundraising capacity
- Priority consideration for nonprofits led by and serving women, Latino, rural, and historically underrepresented communities
How to Get Involved
- Nonprofits: Apply to join the next cohort
- Donors & Funders: Attend the showcase, meet inspiring leaders, and explore ways to invest in their work
- Community Members: Volunteer as a coach, mentor, or pitch responder
Join us for a Q&A
August 28, 2025 at 3:30 PM Join the meeting now Meeting ID: 290 126 411 450 2Passcode: Xe3Z4Wd6
Submission Instructions:
Applications are due by September 18, 2025. Selected participants will be notified by September 25, 2025.
Together, we can grow philanthropy and strengthen the nonprofit sector in Northern Nevada.
Funding Acknowledgment:
The Philanthropy in Practice program is made possible through the generous support of the Fidelity Charitable Catalyst Fund.
