Literary Milestones: From Vienna to Salzburg 

Expert Article: Global Fundraising 

Major Donor Fundraising remains pivotal to success, yet the market is evolving. Across Europe, the number of traditional major donors is declining, while investment and giving from the US are decreasingly globally distributed. Simultaneously, philanthropic assets in the Asia-Pacific are expanding rapidly – especially among young high-net-worth individuals and family offices. Effective major donor fundraising today requires much more than classic relationship management: it demands digital courage and innovative formats, such as virtual events and targeted storytelling that places societal impact at the heart of every project. Blending inspiration and networking with fresh and creative, well-executed methods will continue to attract new major donors and win them over for social change. "Expert: Is Major Donor Fundraising Still Worthwhile?" (German)

Climate Reality Corps – Poly-Solutions Across the Globe

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My participation in the Climate Reality Leadership Corps in Paris, meeting Al Gore and over 800 fellow campaigners from around the world, profoundly expanded my perspective on global environmental responsibility. The moment Al Gore emphasised the fragility of our atmosphere brought home the urgency for eco-social innovation now. The conference provided practical insights into sustainable management and CSR strategies, which have become core components of my consultancy portfolio. The diversity of approaches – from climate protection and social inclusion to digital transformation – illustrates the importance of poly-solutions and cross-border cooperation. As a fundraiser, I can directly apply these experiences and my leadership skills to international projects, build networks, and bring fresh momentum to working life.

Readings, Climate Fiction & Literary Dialogue

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The novel, I am working on, explores the great issues of our time: climate change, migration, societal hope and personal growth. I have read from this work at several venues – including the Literaturmeile in Vienna and as part of the “Störfeuer” anthology. Linking literary storytelling with scientific and sociopolitical content creates new role models and encourages change. Especially the “Climate Fiction” format enables us to make ecological challenges emotionally tangible, inspiring readers for sustainable ideas. Feedback from readings and workshops shows that focussing on transformation and offering new perspectives gives hope and releases creativity – qualities that also inspire fundraising.

Swiss Fundraising Day: Speaker for Gender-Diversity

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As a speaker at the prestigious Swiss Fundraising Day 2024 in Bern, I advocated for gender-sensitive fundraising and the integration of diversity approaches. The congress provided a forum to tackle ethical questions around giving processes and emerging models of success. Key topics included exchange on gender mainstreaming, empowerment, and diversity. Responses highlighted how crucial female perspectives and diverse teams are, particularly in the social sector. Insights into successful methods and ethical standards enrich my consultancy work for NGOs and businesses aiming for sustainable impact.

OmniBlick Espresso Talk: Shaping Society 

In dialogue with Margarita Misheva during the OmniBlick Espresso Talk, our focus was the intersection of digitalisation, social entrepreneurship, and social responsibility. Modern technologies – from AI and cloud solutions to climate-neutral platforms – are now decisive for lasting social transformation. We discussed how social innovation is becoming the engine of a new generation of enterprises and projects. Fundraising has evolved into both resource generation and a platform for growth and innovation. Applying digital tools in a responsible way systemically promotes diversity, equal opportunity, and climate protection.

Summer Festival in the Prater: Networking & Joy for Life

The summer festival in Vienna’s Prater I invited guests to, symbolises for me the power of community, joie de vivre, and effective networking. Guests from many regions and sectors celebrated with music and food, shared experiences, and made new contacts for future projects. Shared enjoyment, gratitude and exchanging ideas in a relaxed atmosphere strengthen social cohesion. Such informal meetings more often provide the breeding ground for sustainable fundraising collaborations and innovative initiatives that spark impact beyond daily working life.

Successful Negotiations in Fundraising – Workshop for NPOs

Fundraising thrives on strong relationships and well-orchestrated negotiation processes, especially within women’s networks and NGOs. In my workshop, I imparted methods for strategic outreach, negotiation power and patience, as well as nurturing connections. The strategic combination of many years of hands-on experience in the German-speaking world and internationally as well as contemporary communication skills enables both small and larger organisations to prepare for major donor fundraising. Insights into negotiation techniques, motivation and network management help NGOs to find their own niche and occupy it sustainably.

Major Donor Workshop at the Vienna Fundraising Congress

At the 29th Austrian Fundraising Congress, I led a major donor workshop – its attendance and demand underline how relevant this topic is. Even smaller NGOs can win major donors with creativity, humour and sustainable methods – above all, the right approach, motivation and a commitment to individual, appreciative interaction are key. Looking back and discussing real-life case studies provided participants with unique impulses to reshape fundraising initiatives, reach target audiences effectively and cultivate lasting donor relationships. Time, courage, and joint learning progress are the keys to success, I believe.