The Giving Pyramid. Constituency Circles. Moves Management. These traditional fundraising models have guided leaders for decades. But they miss one critical element: the integration of digital fundraising and online engagement.
Recently, I had the pleasure to chat (again) with Jay Frost of The Philanthropy Mastermind Series. We explored several popular topics: cross-departmental collaboration, breaking down silos, and the need for bold, informed leadership. But this CFRE-accredited “How To” session debuted something brand new: a key concept from my latest book!
I introduced a new model that reframes fundraising for today’s modern era: Digital Integration for Strategic Collaboration, or the Fundraising DISC Model.
The Fundraising DISC Model
The model was born out of my lived experience with colleagues who struggled to understand how digital fundraising fit into their traditional development strategies. I was perplexed that this channel was barely represented in the CFRE exam or in nonprofit fundraising books, but yet it was one of the hottest topics at conferences. And with the Chronicle of Philanthropy declaring that the Giving Pyramid was “broken,” it was clear that a model incorporating digital touchpoints and modern engagement tactics was needed.
Now published in my book, the Fundraising DISC Model reflects the flexibility needed for audience cultivation. It prioritizes collaboration between departments. And, most importantly, it places digital front and center. It integrates strategies across all three of the classic models to form a cohesive system that reflects how donors and prospects engage with our work.
The Fundraising DISC Model’s circular design represents a core truth: donors and audiences don’t follow a predictable, linear journey! They don’t climb directly up the Giving Pyramid, flow effortlessly down the Growth Funnel, or move directly toward the center of a constituency circle. Like the needle dropping on a vinyl record, they could land at any point: an unexpected donation from an unknown individual or a deeply lapsed major donor who attends an event. When programs contain consistent, relationship-driven engagement as demonstrated in the model, there’s a gravitational pull no matter the entry point. This draws them deeper into the mission and keeps them connected.
The Fundraising DISC Model by Jen Newmeyer, CFRE
Collaboration and Integration
During the webinar, I shared two strategies for effective collaboration. One focuses on the outer bands of the Fundraising DISC Model. It’s the core of digital-first campaigns and strategies. These can include Giving Tuesday, themed campaigns or those with intentional engagement. The second supports inward-facing integration where digital fundraising teams enhance traditional efforts with tools like emails, ads, or website content that accompany direct mail, corporate recognition, or events.
In addition, I offered collaboration tips and compelling stats to demonstrate the power of effective collaboration.
Leadership
We wrapped up with a look at leadership. I outlined essential digital fundraising skills, scalable structures for teams of any size (including teams of one!), and leadership traits that foster innovation, open dialogue, and promote investment in digital resources.
Curious?
Watch the full 60-minute recording to dive deeper! Or get a copy of my new book. It expands on these topics and offers so much more: campaign examples, audit checklists, AI innovations, and a comprehensive digital maturity scorecard to benchmark your nonprofit and plan a path forward.
