541: The Future of Giving: Adapting for the Next Generation with Jonathan Beck

How do you grow predictable revenue for your non-profit initiative? 

In this value-packed episode of Leaders of Transformation, host Nicole Jansen sits down with Jonathan Beck, founder of WeGive—a powerful SaaS platform transforming how nonprofits and faith-based organizations engage donors and fuel their missions.

After co-founding PayStand, a global leader in digital payments, and building a successful career in Silicon Valley, Jonathan felt a strong pull to return to his roots and serve the nonprofit world. With WeGive, he's merging innovative technology with purpose, helping mission-driven leaders build stronger supporter relationships and generate sustainable, predictable revenue.

Jonathan shares how donor engagement is evolving from basic transactions ("Giving 1.0") to immersive, personalized experiences through what he calls a Giving Experience Platform. Today's donors expect more than forms and receipts—they want meaningful stories, deeper connection, and seamless digital interactions.

Nicole and Jonathan discuss how nonprofits and churches can elevate engagement, integrate modern tech like Salesforce and Planning Center, and use AI to reduce administrative burden. They also dive into the real-world challenges leaders face when navigating digital transformation—and how to overcome them with clarity and confidence.

Whether you're an executive director, outreach pastor, fundraising professional, or mission-driven entrepreneur, this episode will inspire you with fresh ideas and actionable strategies to amplify your impact.

What We Discuss in This Episode

• How is "Giving 3.0" different from traditional fundraising methods?
• What is a "Giving Experience Platform" and how does it work?
• Why are personalized donor journeys critical for today's nonprofit growth?
• What practical steps help nonprofits increase donor retention and conversion?
• How does WeGive integrate with tools like Planning Center, Salesforce, and more?
• Which donor engagement strategies work best for Gen X and Millennial supporters?
• What are the biggest barriers to technology adoption in the nonprofit sector—and how can leaders overcome them?
• How does AI streamline repetitive nonprofit tasks and elevate donor relationships?
• Who are WeGive's ideal clients—and how do they measure success?
• What pricing models make advanced fundraising tech accessible for growing organizations?

Podcast Highlights

0:00 - Evolution of Giving Platforms

6:09 - Donor Journey: From Online to Mailbox

7:54 - Effortless Fundraising Boosts Connections

12:25 - Church Software Usability Challenges

13:42 - Enhanced Church Giving Tools

17:27 - WeGive: Seamless Donation Experience

21:47 - Nonprofits Lack Innovation Culture

25:37 - Essentials for Any Church

29:21 - Flexible CRM and Payment Solutions

30:09 - Affordable Platform Fees for Nonprofits

34:27 - AI-Driven CRM Insights

36:47 - Entrepreneurial Insights and Innovation

Favorite Quotes

"Today's donors are purchasing a piece of their identity, and the product is delivered via communication. It's not just a transaction—it's a relationship." ~ Jonathan Beck

"Most nonprofit tools are stand-alone point s