On a special Christmas edition of the podcast, we are getting a behind the scenes look at how an independent artist raises funds to support their mission. Today we’re talking with Steve Bell. Steve is a singer-songwriter, author, and speaker. He has been sharing his music and message for almost 30 years across Canada, the US and beyond. Steve has a two-sided business model. He tours and sells music — but he also raises funds and relies on philanthropy. Over the years, Steve has built a broad base of donors by giving people a chance to support his mission in a meaningful way.This is one of the more insightful fundraising chats I’ve had in a long time. We get into the philosophy and mindset of fundraising: giving someone an opportunity to be a part of, and sharing in, the work we do.Today we’ll cover:[3:25] - Getting to know Steve as an artist, author, and mission-driven fundraiser[9:16] - How Steve maintains an active relationship with his audience[11:46] - How to grow a donor base while doing what you care about[18:43] - The currency of music[16:55] - Steve’s explains his pre-COVID marketing strategies and revenue streams[25:20] - Mike and Steve talk about advent; Steve performs, “The Magnificat”[31:20] - What Steve has done to adjust to fundraising during COVID-19[37:50] - What losing live events has meant for Steve’s business[37:30] - There is so shortcut to great fundraising  [45:30] - Steve performs the title track of his new album, “Wouldn’t You Love to Know”[49:34] - Steve’s parting thoughts for nonprofit leadersResources mentioned:A Spirituality of Fundraising by Henri Nouwen“A Hunkered Down Christmas” by Steve Bell7-book series “Pilgrim Year” by Steve BellSteve Bell’s newest release “Wouldn’t You Love to Know”Get connected:Steve would love to connect with you. You can find information about him at his website: stevebell.com Please consider subscribing to, rating, or sharing the podcast on your preferred platform. You can do that by clicking here. To take advantage of our FREE resources and get your 5-Minute Fundraising Fix, visit:fiveminutefundraisingfix.com