EP 87: Building a Better Way to Fundraise with Derric Bakker

In this episode of The Responsive Lab, Carly and Scott sit down with Derric Bakker, CEO of DickersonBakker. With more than three decades of experience as a practitioner, consultant, and business leader, he helps organizations move beyond legacy fundraising models toward relationship-centered approaches.

You'll hear about:

* Why fundraising feels harder now and how this represents a fundamental shift, not just a cyclical downturn

* What "treat every donor like a major donor" actually means in practice

* How younger donors are increasingly behaving like major donors in their selectivity and relationship expectations

* Why 94% of nonprofit leaders agree change is needed, but 70% say it's not happening

* Where AI fits into relationship-based fundraising without replacing human connection

* Using data and technology to personalize donor experiences at scale

* Simple changes you can make this week to start expressing genuine gratitude and listening to donors

Links from the episode:

* Connect with Derric on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derricbakker/

* Visit Better Way Champions: https://betterwaychampions.org/