Case Studies

Non-profit case study:

Local Children’s Foundation

Bill Young is a former member of the Denver Active 20-30 Children’s foundation, which is comprised of local volunteer business leaders who raise money to support 50 to 60 children’s charities. The group’s annual fundraisers and projects are supported by corporate sponsorships, individual donors, and in-kind donations.

When Bill became president of the Board, the organization was increasing its funds raised by 10% a year. Bill assumed the helm armed with a lofty goal – increase fundraising to $1 million annually. Bill also came armed with a plan to achieve his goal.

He understood that while non-profit fundraising is selling, it requires different techniques. Successful fundraisers begin with their circle of influence and cultivate long-term relationships. Potential donors need to learn about the organization, get to know the people involved, and determine if their reasons for contributing are a match for the organization. In addition, potential donors need to trust the person asking for money.

Bill helped train and motivate foundation members by focusing on support, success stories, and case studies. He implemented a three-point strategic plan, which led to growing all events, improving the quality of new members, and increasing interaction with granted charities.

Even in non-profits, the 80-20 rule applies. Bill realized that an active 20% of the membership was raising 80% of the money. He focused on that very successful 20%, helping them further hone their skills. He also identified what motivated individuals in this group and tailored individual incentives to them.

In addition, Bill ensured each member had a clear understanding of the vision. He brought in sales trainers and other experts to ensure everyone possessed the tools and training to help the organization achieve the vision. Bill was the number one individual fundraiser for five years straight.

Bill is quick to point out that the organization’s success is not about him. Each of the foundation’s members makes a significant contribution. Reaching the fundraising goal is a collaborative effort, based on a shared vision.  The new goal is $2,000,000 per year.

Watch the video of the event that Bill helped grow and develop into one of the top fundraising events in the United States http://www.vistatvdenver.com/detail/denver-polo-classic-2011  

www.da2030.com

Business/Entrepreneurial case study:

Talus International

Talus is the brainchild of Dr. Lorin Brandon, who brings extensive background in the healthcare industry and a clear understanding of what works – and what doesn’t. As interum CEO of Talus (through his role as managing partner of Management Factor, Inc.), it was Bill Young's job to set the vision, clarify it, and communicate it to attract the necessary funding. As Bill points out, there is no shortage of great ideas. But many never see the light of day, because they lack funding.

To ensure Talus didn’t suffer this fate, Bill needed to raise the initial funds. In addition to forming a clear vision he could communicate to investors, he needed to establish credibility – a high level of credibility that potential investors could believe in. Having Dr. Brandon on the team went a long way to achieve this, but Bill also had to build a credible, professional Board of Directors and team of employees. Plus, he knew he must be committed to this vision for the long haul.

Raising angel funding takes time. Bill relied on his time-tested ability to create and maintain relationships. He started by contacting people he knew in his circle of influence and members of the healthcare and financial industries. He widened the circle to include people he knew who had previously invested in businesses. Raising funds and gaining support means nurturing relationships, often just meeting for coffee. Bill believes you must always be professional, stay in touch, and don’t always ask for something when you contact people. A firm believer of "you must give to get," Bill often offers valuable advice and business referrals. He is a Key Connector and provides hundreds of referrals each year.

The result? Talus has received term sheets and created relationships with several Wall Street index and ratings companies, and investment groups.

www.talusexchange.com

 

Sponsorship case study:

Bye Energy Green Flight Program

This program is a collaborative effort between alternative energy and aerospace industries resulting in the creation of an electric hybrid propulsion system for aviation. The Green Flight Program is established to support the vital research and development of this potentially transformational technology application.

Looking to initiate a corporate sponsorship program, BYE Energy reached out to Bill to start the process and engage potential opportunities. They were in the process of transforming a conventionally powered airplane to electric power for a proof of concept flight. Technology partners are providing state-of-the-art technology that will be integrated for the first time to provide an economic source of propulsion that will improve the performance characteristics of the aircraft. This was a unique opportunity for the right brand.

Bill used his four step process which includes defining the benefits package, creating the ideal profile, confirming the prospect process, and engaging key brands. The campaign was a success with Bill identifying key descision markers at over 200 major US brands including Yahoo, Ford, Qwest, Breitling.