#103: Live from Summit: Building Trust—The Antidote To Donor Fatigue & Declining Retention, with Mike Duerksen

Fundraising is at a crossroads. Donor trust is eroding, retention rates are plummeting, and yet, charities continue to rely on the same high-volume, bottom-of-the-funnel tactics—more asks, more urgency, more chasing. But what if the solution isn’t asking more, but becoming something donors want to say yes to?

On today’s episode, we listen in to a recorded session from the Build Good Summit where we explored why trust is the most valuable (and perhaps only) asset fundraisers have left. We’ll introduce the fundraising flywheel, a model designed to build momentum by prioritizing donor autonomy, competence, and connection. Unlike the funnel, which treats giving as a linear transaction, the flywheel fosters long-term engagement and sustainable growth.

Through case studies and practical examples, you’ll learn how to move beyond relentless solicitation and toward a trust-based approach that treats donors like an important part of the team, with a meaningful role to play. Because fundraising isn’t about forcing generosity—it’s about earning it.

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⛰️ Don’t miss out on the next BuildGood Summit! Sign up to be the first to know about the dates, location and super early bird discounted tickets at www.buildgoodsummit.com  

🤔 What else would you like to know about improving your fundraising and becoming an effective nonprofit marketer? Connect with Mike Duerksen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeduerksen/ 

🔔 Follow the Build Good Fundraising Podcast on your favourite podcast app—and never miss a new episode: https://buildgood.com/category/podcast/ 

❤️ And if you haven't yet, subscribe to our Youtube channel for more fundraising videos and actionable strategies that will help you grow your revenue and impact: https://www.youtube.com/@buildgood?sub_confirmation=1 

Thanks for listening! 

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#Fundraising #Nonprofit #Philanthropy #Marketing 

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You’ll add proven expertise to your team. You’ll benefit from tested and proven strategies that will make you more money. And you’ll have peace of mind that you’re putting your best foot forward with your fundraising. 

➡️For more information, go here: www.buildgood.com