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Strategic Planning

Frameworks and field-tested approaches for equity-centered strategic planning in mission-driven organizations.

AllStrategic PlanningBoard DevelopmentLeadership DevelopmentFund DevelopmentSocial ImpactOrganizational DevelopmentCommunicationsPhilanthropic StrategyNonprofit Consulting

6 articles

Consultant facilitating a strategic planning session with a diverse group of nonprofit professionals in a collaborative workshop setting
GuideStrategic Planning
20 min read
March 8, 2026

How to Choose a Nonprofit Strategic Planning Consultant (And What to Expect)

A guide to hiring a nonprofit strategic planning consultant — what they do, what it costs, red flags to avoid, and how equity-centered planning produces better outcomes.

Drew Giddings
Drew Giddings
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GuideStrategic Planning
25 min read
March 4, 2026

Nonprofit Strategic Planning: The Complete Guide for Mission-Driven Organizations

Most nonprofit strategic plans never get fully implemented. Research suggests implementation failure rates of 60-90% are common across sectors. This guide is grounded in what actually works for mission-driven organizations, drawn from our work with more than 100 nonprofits.

Drew Giddings
Drew Giddings
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Hands joining together over a table symbolizing collective impact and collaboration
GuideStrategic Planning
16 min read
February 21, 2026

Nonprofit Communications Strategy: A Practitioner's Guide for Mission-Driven Leaders

Most nonprofit communications strategies are built for marketing, not leadership. This practitioner's guide reframes communications as a strategic management tool — one that aligns stakeholders, drives fundraising, and advances mission. Learn how to build a communications strategy that actually moves the organization forward.

Drew Giddings
Drew Giddings
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Professional working on strategic planning documents at a desk
GuideStrategic Planning
28 min read
February 18, 2026

Theory of Change: A Practical Guide for Nonprofits

Whether a funder just asked for one or you are revisiting an outdated framework, this guide walks you through every component of a theory of change — with an equity-centered approach that most guides ignore entirely.

Drew Giddings
Drew Giddings
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Data visualization and analytics dashboard showing organizational strategy metrics
ResearchStrategic Planning
15 min read
February 15, 2026

The State of Strategic Planning in Social Impact Organizations: A 2026 Analysis

Industry research shows that 60-90% of strategic plans never fully launch—and the social impact sector is no exception. Drawing on more than 30 years of field work with over 100 mission-driven organizations, Giddings Consulting Group introduces the GCG Equity Planning Model, a five-step framework for equity-centered strategic planning.

Drew Giddings
Drew Giddings
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Diverse team collaborating on strategic planning with laptops and whiteboard
ArticleStrategic Planning
12 min read
January 1, 2026

Nonprofit Strategic Planning in 2026: An Equity-Centered Guide for Mission-Driven Leaders

Strategic planning is evolving. In 2026, the most effective nonprofit leaders are moving beyond traditional frameworks to embrace equity-centered approaches that create lasting community impact. Here's how to build a strategic plan that truly serves your mission.

Drew Giddings
Drew Giddings
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