The Storytelling Fundraiser: The Brain, Behavioral Economics, and Fundraising Story

by Russell James III

In this book, Professor Russell James shows how the latest research findings can help you tell better stories that raise more money. You’ll learn what words and phrases to use – and what to avoid. You’ll see how to improve your fundraising results using the latest findings from neuroscience, psychology, and behavioral economics along with ancient principals from the art of storytelling. Whether you want more donors or larger gifts, this book will help by showing the underlying principles and practical tactics that will motivate donors and bring more money to your cause.1 At the heart of philanthropy is story2 Understanding fundraising story with a brain scanner 3 Can I see your character? When fundraising story is in the details4 Math problems in fundraising Motivations and barriers 5 Solutions in fundraising Story first, math second6 The secret to fundraising Gifts of wealth not income7 Subtraction in fundraising Make cost feel smaller 8 Advanced fundraising Multiply the experience, divide the cost9 The psychology of the massive Foundations, funds, trusts, and endowments10 Using family words not formal words in fundraising story11 Charity efficiency, overhead, and fundraising A tale of two worlds12 Restricted gifts and fundraising Conflict and compromise between two worlds13 Understanding fundraising as The identity-challenge-victory story cycle14 Understanding the ask as The “inciting incident” in fundraising story15 Putting a victory in the fundraising What changes if I give?16 Putting a challenge in the fundraising You want me to do what?17 Finish the story or lose the Delivering victory with impact reporting

204 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 13, 2022