[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Intro Text” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Fundraising is evolving, and the organizations that succeed today are those that prioritize relationships over transactions.<\/p>\n
Donors expect more than a simple appeal\u2014they want to feel connected to the mission and see the tangible impact of their contributions. Building trust and transparency has become the cornerstone of modern fundraising.<\/p>\n
Instead of focusing solely on short-term goals, non-profits are shifting toward long-term engagement, creating authentic connections that inspire loyalty and sustained support.<\/p>\n
In partnership with Growth By Design<\/a>, Winona State brings you Fundraising for a New Era (FFNE).<\/em> This 12-week professional certificate program emphasizes listening to donors, understanding their motivations, and aligning their passions with organizational goals. It moves beyond one-size-fits-all campaigns to create personalized experiences that make donors feel valued.<\/p>\n When donors see themselves as partners in the mission, they are more likely to give generously and consistently.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/blogs.winona.edu\/academics\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/02\/Kristi-Ackley-300.png” alt=”Kristi Ackley” title_text=”Kristi-Ackley-300″ admin_label=”Kristi Ackley Image” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Kristi Ackley Text” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n FFNE Instructor Kristi Ackley shared,<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial admin_label=”Kristi Ackley Testimonial” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”20px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n When organizations embrace this philosophy, the results are remarkable.<\/p>\n Prioritizing relationships leads not only to increased giving but also to communities of advocates who champion your cause.<\/p>\n It requires a cultural shift\u2014fundraising teams must think like relationship builders, not just revenue generators.<\/p>\n It all begins with cultivating trust, demonstrating impact, and showing gratitude in ways that truly resonate.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_testimonial][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Program Value Text” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Feedback from FFNE\u2019s first cohort has been nothing short of inspiring:<\/p>\n 100% of participants said they would highly recommend Fundraising for a New Era to others. Every participant also reported increased confidence in applying what they learned.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_testimonial author=”Fundraising for a New Era Participant” admin_label=”FFNE Participant Testimonial” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”20px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n This course completely changed how I think about fundraising.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_testimonial][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_testimonial author=”Fundraising for a New Era Participant” admin_label=”FFNE Participant Testimonial” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”20px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n It helped me understand the full scope of fundraising\u2014events, individual giving, major gifts, legacy giving\u2014and how each connects to a broader, strategic plan.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_testimonial][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Registration Text” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Now is your chance to join this transformative experience. Registration is open, and the next cohort will begin Feb. 24<\/strong>. Don\u2019t miss the opportunity to elevate your fundraising strategy and build lasting donor relationships.<\/p>\n For $1,895, secure your spot today and lead your organization into a new era of fundraising!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider show_divider=”off” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_blurb title=”About Design By Growth” content_max_width=”1100px” admin_label=”About Design By Growth Blurb” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h2″ custom_margin=”20px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Growth By Design, a Minnesota-based firm, is a leadership development and consulting firm for social impact and mission-driven organizations.<\/p>\n They offer executive coaching, capital campaign services, and energizing workshops and retreats. Learn more at designgrowlead.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”About WSU’s Adult & Continuing Education” content_max_width=”1100px” admin_label=”About WSU – ACE Blurb” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h2″ custom_margin=”20px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n\n
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