Danielle M. Locke, MPA, CAP

I’m the “tell-it-like-it-is” nonprofit champion. I empower community leaders to confidently fund their missions — without fear or burnout.  After raising millions for organizations of all sizes, here’s what I know to be true: there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to leading your mission. Ignore the BS.

 

I founded Locke Step Partners in 2018. I was tired of seeing amazing organizations stuck on the gerbil wheel of grants, events, and unrealistic expectations. I knew there was a better way—and I wanted to be the one to help them find it.

 

Today, my team and I work with nonprofits nationwide to maximize their fundraising, upgrade operations, and build better programming. No jargon. No fluff. Just real talk, practical tools, and simple strategies that actually work.

 

Here’s what I believe. 

• Successful fundraising is simply about building good processes and better relationships. 

• There are a lot of myths around fundraising and even more experts out there touting the "shoulds," "oughts," and "musts" – freezing purpose driven leaders with fear. 

• Every person who wants to change the world CAN raise the money necessary to do so—without sacrificing themselves in the process.

• Life in nonprofit is hard, but also amazing, ridiculous, frustrating, exhausting and awe inspiring. 

 

What I can talk about all day: 

• Ways to turn fundraising chaos into real dollars in the door

• Simple strategies to make fundraising doable and even enjoyable 

• Busting the myth that “there are not enough charitable dollars out there”. 

• Giving board members a gentle (or not-so-gentle) kick into gear

• Building processes into your day so you can raise more, do more and stress less

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I’ve got the creds too. I hold a Masters in Public Administration (MPA) with a certificate in Nonprofit Management and I am a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP®), but more importantly, I’ve been where you are, in the trenches. 

 

Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, I’m a proud Midwesterner. My husband Bill, our tween son and I enjoy exploring our community parks, festivals, coffee shops, as well as traveling across the country. I’m an 80’s girl at heart. I love baking, learning, and celebrating with family and friends.

 

If you’re looking for an expert in nonprofit who delivers valuable, practical advice with heart and humor (and tells some great stories) with none of the rhetoric — let’s talk.