Enhancing Website Accessibility for Inclusive User Experience

The main objective of this project is to design and implement a fully accessible user interface for the Advocate Fundraising website using Squarespace. Students will research what accessibility means in the context of web design, explore the needs of users with disabilities, and identify how these needs can be met on a Squarespace site. This includes analyzing Squarespace’s built-in accessibility features, evaluating the platform’s limitations, and researching free third-party tools, add-ons, or widgets that can improve accessibility (e.g., contrast toggles, font scaling, screen reader compatibility). Where needed, students will identify or write simple code snippets to enhance functionality. Deliverables will include a summary of accessibility requirements, analysis of Squarespace’s capabilities, design mockups, implementation of features (using only free tools or solutions), and a final report with guidance for ongoing updates.

CRM-Lite System Design for a Fundraising Consultancy

The goal of this project is to design a scalable, values-aligned, and user-friendly CRM-lite system for Advocate Fundraising, a boutique consultancy supporting non-profits across Canada. Learners will assess current spreadsheet-based workflows, explore emerging technologies and digital tools, and develop a streamlined system to manage lead tracking, funder follow-ups, and client relationships. All recommendations must meet high ethical standards , prioritizing privacy, sustainability, and alignment with our commitment to inclusive, responsible, and socially conscious business practices.

Strategic Market Research & Lead Generation for Non-Profit Fundraising Consultancy

Project Goal : The goal of this project is to apply real-world market research and strategic prospecting skills to identify high-potential, values-aligned nonprofit clients for Advocate Fundraising—a specialized consultancy supporting fundraising growth across Canada. Learners will engage in a full-cycle research and lead generation project that blends nonprofit sector analysis, decision-maker mapping, and ethical business development. Their work will directly impact Advocate Fundraising’s ability to expand its client base in a mission-driven, sustainable way. Key activities include: Defining an ideal client profile based on real service delivery patterns Conducting deep research into the Canadian nonprofit landscape Gathering data on funding patterns, mission alignment, and executive leadership access Creating a practical and sortable lead tracker Proposing introductory outreach messages aligned with ethical sales principles Presenting findings and top leads in a professional summary report

Advocate Fundraising Marketing Strategy Development

The main objective of this project is to develop a comprehensive marketing strategy for Advocate Fundraising while simultaneously creating targeted content that resonates with NPOs and charities, ultimately enhancing their engagement and support. Tasks and Activities for Learners: Strategy Development (50% of Project) 1.Assessment of Current Strategy: Review Advocate Fundraising’s existing marketing efforts to identify strengths and weaknesses. 2.Measurable Goals: Set specific, measurable goals aimed at increasing client engagement (NPOs/Charities), such as: Increasing the number of participating charities in campaigns by a specific percentage within a set timeframe. Enhancing awareness of services offered to NPOs by achieving a target number of inquiries or sign-ups for resources. 3.Channel Identification: Identify and evaluate various marketing channels (e.g., email newsletters, social media, webinars, and networking events) that can effectively reach and engage NPOs and charities. 4.Cyclical Trends Analysis: Map out important fundraising days and cyclical trends (e.g., Giving Tuesday, year-end giving periods) that insights can be drawn from, to tailor engagement strategies accordingly. Content Creation (50% of Project) 1.Content Planning: Develop a calendar that outlines key cyclical fundraising dates and events relevant to NPOs/Charities, ensuring that content is aligned with these moments. 2.Engagement Materials: Create specific promotional and engagement materials tailored for NPOs. These may include: Email Campaigns:  Draft email templates focusing on upcoming fundraising days, offering tips or resources. Informative Flyers/Brochures:  Design materials that outline advocacy strategies, key statistics about fundraising days, and how Advocate Fundraising can assist NPOs. 3.Visual Content: Develop engaging visuals such as infographics or charts that illustrate the cyclical trends and relevant fundraising days, making it easier for NPOs/Charities to understand and utilize this information. 4.Feedback and Iteration: Gather feedback on created content from focus groups or stakeholders to ensure the materials resonate with the target audience (NPOs/Charities), making necessary adjustments before finalizing.