Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal and business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mark Duncan, CEO of The FundCoach, LLC., located in Wilmington, DE, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

The FundCoach, LLC is a fundraising coaching practice that empowers nonprofit leaders with the skill and confidence to secure significant funds from high-net-worth donors through the Relationship Fundraising Method. My primary customers are nonprofit organizations. I usually work directly with the CEO/ED and/or the director of development.

Tell us about yourself

I spent 35 years of my career in the nonprofit space. Close to 25 of those years were spent in fundraising. I raised millions of dollars for nonprofit organizations by building relationships with wealthy donors and asking them to give money. I loved asking people for money because it's never been about the dollars. It's about what the dollars do for the people being served by that organization.

I saw myself as a conduit between wealthy prospects and the people who benefit from their generosity. I simply was a matchmaker between the donors' capacity along with their passion for the mission and the needs of the organization.

Each day I am fortunate to work with many clients who I help to raise significant funds to support many meaningful missions. Teaching others to be successful at fundraising is my true motivation.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I had one client who was in danger of having to shut down. They needed to raise $600,000 in just five months - cash in hand - no room for negotiation. If they didn't hit their target, generations of children and families would miss out on this wonderful mission. Needless to say, I was able to help them meet and exceed that goal. As a result, they were able to save their organization.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

The constant work to elevate my brand through social media and digital marketing.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Be clear on what impact you want to make or what problem you want to solve.
  2. Always look to provide value to your clients far beyond their expectations - it's what keeps them coming back and recommending you to others.
  3. Be patient and build at a pace.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.thefundcoach.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefundcoach
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefundcoach/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/thefundcoach
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlduncan/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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