368: Why Nonprofits Must Think Like Businesses

Most nonprofits fail for one simple reason: they don’t run like businesses. Dr. Sharon Elefant learned this firsthand and built her company, The Nonprofit Plug, to help founders close that gap. After beginning her career in hospital administration and later being laid off while finishing her doctorate, she turned her gift for connecting people to resources into a thriving consulting firm with 14 team members serving nonprofits across the country. 

You’ll hear how Sharon built a culture grounded in follow-through, accountability, and professional excellence—and why she insists that mission-driven leaders must embrace financial literacy, systems, and quality control. She also shares how she intentionally prepared her team for her 3–6 month maternity leave by developing emerging leaders, transferring ownership of client relationships, and installing processes that allowed her to step away with confidence. If you care about impact, this conversation will challenge you to strengthen the business behind your mission. 

Sharon is a nationally recognized nonprofit strategist, educator, and  community advocate, serving as the Founder and CEO of The Nonprofit Plug LLC and The Nonprofit Plug Foundation Inc. With over a decade of experience in nonprofit leadership, compliance, financial management, grant writing, and capacity building, she has supported the formation and sustainability of hundreds of nonprofit organizations across the country. 

You’ll discover: 

• How consistent follow-through becomes the foundation of trust
• Why nonprofits must operate like businesses to thrive
• The systems Sharon uses to ensure 100% quality control
• How to develop emerging leaders through intentional shadowing
• Practical ways to prepare your team for your temporary absence

Connect with Dr. Sharon Elefant 

Social Media

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/drsharonelefant/ 

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/thenonprofitplug 

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thenonprofitplug/ 

Website 

The Nonprofit Plug https://thenonprofitplug.com/

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