Operation Smile Houston Gala With Sneha Merchant

How does a nonprofit steadily grow its annual fundraising gala so it becomes one of the most successful galas in your area?

Today, I talk with Sneha Merchant, co-Chair of the Operation Smile Houston Gala, to talk about its 10th anniversary gala.

Over the past decade, Operation Smile's Houston Gala has grown in scope and impact. Beginning as a smaller 100-person event, the event has grown in size and now features well over 500 of Houston's most notable philanthropists in attendance each year. Along the way, the organization has strategically shifted event venues as the Operation Smile Gala has grown and scaled during that time.

Sneha provides valuable insights on a range of topics, including tips on successfully and gradually evolving your event over time, building a devoted following for your annual gala and signature fundraising event that also creates great word of mouth, getting high-profile individuals to say yes to support your event, and so much more. This is one episode you will definitely not want to miss.