At Bridge Philanthropic Consulting (BPC), we’ve spent years guiding nonprofits, foundations, and mission-driven organizations through some of the most profound transformations in modern philanthropy. One shift stands out above all others: the move toward virtual consulting for small nonprofits. We launched BPC Insights in 2019 to serve non-profits who are start-ups to budgets of $1MM.

This isn’t just a temporary trend born from necessity — it’s a fundamental reimagining of how we partner with smaller nonprofits through virtual consulting with our experienced consultants, advise, and empower organizations to meet their goals. We have developed virtual tools to break down geographic barriers, accelerated innovation, and opened doors to communities we once struggled to reach.

“When I talk to nonprofit leaders, I remind them that BPC Insights consulting isn’t about losing connection — it’s about expanding it. The screen may be between us, but the tools and our shared mission, values, and vision keep us closer than ever.”
— Dwayne Ashley, CEO, Bridge Philanthropic Consulting

Following a BPC Insights session, a BPC consultant collaborates with small nonprofit leaders through the BPC Insights program — bringing expert support to organizations that might otherwise be overlooked.

The New Landscape of BPC Insights for Small Non-Profits

The philanthropic sector thrives on relationships. Traditionally, those relationships were nurtured across conference tables, donor events, and community gatherings. Today, many of those touchpoints happen on Zoom calls, virtual town halls, and shared digital workspaces for smaller groups who lack the staff capacity to manage the stewardship outreach where large team of 20-100 Development staff in big organizations.

For some, this transition has felt like a loss — the handshake replaced by a screen share. But for others, it’s an opportunity: a chance to meet donors where they are, mobilize support faster, and bring more voices into the conversation. At BPC, we’ve learned that the key isn’t replicating the old ways online, but rather reimagining what connection and trust look like in a digital-first era.

What We’re Hearing from Small Nonprofit Leaders

When we speak with nonprofit executives and board members across the country, one thing is clear: this shift is as exciting as it is daunting.

Maria Lopez, Executive Director of a national youth development nonprofit, put it this way:

“The pandemic forced us to get creative. Now, virtual consulting isn’t just a backup plan — it’s part of our long-term strategy. We’ve found new ways to engage donors, train staff, and share our impact story without ever being in the same room.”

Her words echo what we see daily at BPC: nonprofits aren’t simply adapting; they’re innovating. But they need guidance to do it well — and that’s where we come in.

Five Tips for Small Nonprofits Navigating Virtual Consulting

Drawing on our experience advising organizations nationwide, here are five practical ways to thrive in this new virtual landscape:

Shape

1. Lead with Clarity and Purpose

Virtual environments can easily dilute your message. Start every interaction — whether it’s a donor pitch or a team training — by grounding the conversation in your mission. Remind people why they’re here and what’s at stake.

“Clarity creates connection. When people understand why your mission matters, they stay engaged — whether they’re across the table or across the country.” — Dwayne Ashley

2. Invest in Digital Infrastructure

Technology should amplify your message, not complicate it. Outdated tools or clunky platforms can derail a great idea.

• Prioritize user-friendly meeting software and secure donor databases.
• Train your team to feel confident using these tools.
• Explore emerging tech — from virtual whiteboards to AI-driven analytics — that can help you understand donor behavior in real time.

At BPC, we often remind clients: a seamless experience builds trust.

3. Humanize the Screen

Virtual doesn’t have to mean impersonal. In fact, authenticity becomes even more important online.

• Start meetings with personal check-ins or stories to create warmth.
• Encourage cameras on — eye contact matters, even through a lens.
• Balance professionalism with approachability; let your passion for the mission show.

This approach helps donors and stakeholders feel connected not just to your cause, but to the people behind it.

4. Engage Donors Beyond the Meeting

A single virtual event or consultation isn’t enough. Build ongoing touchpoints to sustain interest.

• Follow up with personalized thank-you notes or impact updates.
• Host virtual tours of your programs or behind-the-scenes moments.
• Create interactive digital content (polls, Q&As, videos) that keeps supporters involved.

Nonprofits that thrive in this space treat digital engagement as a journey, not a one-time event.

5. Measure, Adapt, Repeat

The beauty of digital work is the data it provides. Use it.

• Track attendance, engagement rates, and donor conversions.
• Ask for feedback — short surveys can reveal blind spots.
• Adjust your strategy in real time based on what’s working.

Continuous learning is the hallmark of strong virtual consulting. At BPC, we see this as an opportunity to stay nimble and future ready.

Why BPC’s Approach Stands Out

Most small non-profits cannot afford the costs of a traditional monthly retaining fee charged by the industry. Our work isn’t just about delivering advice — it’s about walking alongside our clients as they reimagine what’s possible. Virtual consulting has allowed us to expand our reach, offer lower cost pricing, bringing high-level strategy to nonprofits in rural towns, global networks, and everywhere in between.