For Small (and Very Small) Nonprofits

What does an Executive Director actually do? And how can you lead your organization to a stronger place?Nonprofit expert Erik Hanberg wrote The Little Book of Nonprofit Leadership to speak directly to Executive Directors of small (and very small) nonprofits who are asking these questions. EDs, especially at small nonprofits, tend to be dropped into the deep end of the pool with the expectation that they know how to swim. The Little Book of Nonprofit Leadership will be a welcome rescue line.The book is filled with practical tips and big-picture ideas about:the basics of the jobprogram, people, and money-the three essential areas that a nonprofit ED needs to masterworking with your board (including how to ask for a raise!)your first 100 days as a new EDa guide to being a part-time Executive Directorand more, including access to bonus chapters and special resources!Erik Hanberg has twenty years of nonprofit experience at organizations of all sizes. He's channeled that experience into his four "little books" for nonprofits, which together have sold tens of thousands of copies.Jumpstart your nonprofit now with The Little Book of Nonprofit Leadership: An Executive Director's Handbook for Small (and Very Small) Nonprofits. Erik Hanberg has been a writer all his life. He lives in Tacoma Washington with his wife Mary and two children.In addition to writing novels, Erik Hanberg is an expert in nonprofit management, fundraising, marketing, and leadership. His books for nonprofits have sold more than 10,000 copies.He has served as the director of two nonprofits, the interim executive director of two more, and served in positions in marketing and fundraising. He has been on more than twelve boards. In addition, he has consulted with nonprofit boards and staff of dozens and dozens of nonprofits and foundations across the country.

Revised and expanded in 2025The Little Book of Gold is dedicated to helping small (and very small) non-profits unlock their fundraising potential. Avoid common pitfalls and get tips on proven methods that work. This short guide helps new Executive Directors, active board chairs, and other key staff in charge of fundraising to learn the basics of professional and sustainable fundraising. Geared specifically for non-profits with small and very small budgets (a few hundred thousand dollars a year down to the smallest budgets).What's New in the Second EditionUpdated for Modern FundraisingThis edition includes comprehensive guidance on online donations, recurring gifts, mobile payments, and email campaigns-all integrated seamlessly with the book's proven low-cost approach.Enhanced Digital StrategyLearn how to set up donation forms that actually convert, use QR codes for easy giving, and leverage email for cultivation without overwhelming your donors. Plus updated guidance on donor databases and payment processing for today's digital-first world.Deeper Implementation GuidanceThe core strategies remain the same, but now with more detailed timelines, troubleshooting tips, and step-by-step checklists. Follow along as "Linda" at the Smallville Historical Society implements each strategy with even more specific guidance on execution.Expanded Coverage of Major TopicsMore comprehensive event planning informationEnhanced donor cultivation and stewardship strategiesMore guidance on when and how to hire development staffExpanded section on grant writing and foundation researchNew coverage of planned giving and capital campaignsStill the Same Practical ApproachDespite the updates, this remains the same focused, actionable guide that tens of thousands of small nonprofits have used to transform their fundraising. The "little book" philosophy stays intact-just better equipped for 2025 and beyond. Erik Hanberg has been a writer all his life. He lives in Tacoma Washington with his wife Mary and two children.In addition to writing novels, Erik Hanberg is an expert in nonprofit management, fundraising, marketing, and leadership. His books for nonprofits have sold more than 10,000 copies.He has served as the director of two nonprofits, the interim executive director of two more, and served in positions in marketing and fundraising. He has been on more than twelve boards. In addition, he has consulted with nonprofit boards and staff of dozens and dozens of nonprofits and foundations across the country.

Revised and expanded in 2019!The Little Book of Likes is dedicated to helping small (and very small) nonprofits build an audience of readers on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter.This short guide leads Executive Directors and nonprofit marketing managers through the ins and outs of a simple social media strategy that is effective and sustainable. With real-world practical advice, it recognizes that nonprofit managers usually have better things to be doing than updating Facebook.Like The Little Book of Gold, it was written specifically for small nonprofits as a "road map" to the often confusing and changing world of social media.The revised and expanded book includes additional material on Facebook advertising, podcasting, and a lot more to help make your social media marketing work for your organization. Erik Hanberg has been a writer all his life. He lives in Tacoma Washington with his wife Mary and two children.In addition to writing novels, Erik Hanberg is an expert in nonprofit management, fundraising, marketing, and leadership. His books for nonprofits have sold more than 10,000 copies.He has served as the director of two nonprofits, the interim executive director of two more, and served in positions in marketing and fundraising. He has been on more than twelve boards. In addition, he has consulted with nonprofit boards and staff of dozens and dozens of nonprofits and foundations across the country.