Not All Growth Is Strategic: How to Choose the Right Revenue Paths
Let’s be real: in the nonprofit world, “growth” has become a buzzword with a halo. Add a program. Hire another staffer. Launch a new initiative. More donors! More dollars! More, more, more.
But here’s the truth no one wants to say out loud:
Growth isn’t always good. And it sure as heck isn’t always strategic.
Sometimes, growth is just busywork in a better outfit.
The Problem with “More”
When growth becomes the goal, not the outcome, you get:
Overworked staff barely holding it together
A bloated mission that tries to please everyone and ends up resonating with no one
Donors confused about what you actually do
A budget that looks impressive, but doesn't reflect real impact
This is growth for growth’s sake. And it’s a trap.
Strategic Growth Has a Spine
Before you say yes to the next “great opportunity,” stop. Breathe. Ask yourself:
Does this actually serve our mission… or just our ego?
Is this a smart build on our core work… or a detour we’ll regret in 6 months?
Can we sustain this… or are we duct-taping something we can’t support long-term?
If the answer is “Eh… maybe?” then it’s a no. Strategic growth doesn’t waffle. It’s clear, confident, and unapologetically aligned.
Revenue ≠ Relevance
Just because someone wants to write you a check doesn’t mean you should take it. (Yeah, we said it.)
Smart revenue paths are more than just funding. They’re extensions of your values, your voice, and your vision. When evaluating new streams, ask:
Does this amplify what we do best?
Does it fit who we are?
Will it help us go deeper, not just wider?
If it’s pulling you in a direction that feels off-brand, off-mission, or off-balance, PASS*.*
Growth Should Feel Good
Here’s how you know you’re on the right path:
Your team isn’t burned out. They’re bought in
You’re making bold moves and smart decisions
You’re turning down good things to protect the best things
Your donors understand the why behind every step you take
You’re not chasing momentum. You’re creating it
Strategic growth isn’t about doing everything. It’s about doing the right things, well.
You Don’t Need to Hustle Harder—You Need to Build Smarter
You don’t need 12 more campaigns, a flashy rebrand, or a hundred new donors tomorrow. You need alignment. Focus. And a growth strategy that builds legacy, not just a longer to-do list.
At Knoll & Krest, we help orgs like yours cut the fluff, claim your lane, and grow with guts. Because smart growth isn’t safe. It’s strategy with a backbone.
Grow on purpose. Or don’t grow at all.
Let’s get to work.