Introducing A Free Resource to Support Nonprofits: I3 Digital

In my time at Gulf Coast Community Foundation, I’ve seen firsthand the extraordinary dedication of nonprofit leaders, volunteers and partners who work tirelessly to strengthen our communities. However, I’ve also seen the challenges they face—limited resources, evolving technologies and growing demands on their services. I3 Digital is our new resource to address these challenges, offering a centralized hub where organizations can access the tools they need to grow, innovate, and lead.

Gulf Coast’s Invest In Incredible (I3) Initiative has been advancing our region’s nonprofit community for over a decade. Capacity building is a core part of our work, bolstering the abilities of local organizations to effectively address community needs. I3 began in 2012 with Building Better Boards. Our nonprofits were hungry to strengthen their board governance and operational effectiveness, and the Building Better Boards workshops were our solution. Building Better Boards has evolved into a thriving initiative that offers year-round, low-cost workshops, consulting services, and the highly effective Gulf Coast Board and Leadership Institutes. Now, we are proud to bring our partners I3 Digital, a fresh online resource brimming with tools, templates, policies, and best practices. A 24/7, free digital resource to support every aspect of a nonprofit organization’s operations. 

This new platform has a variety of fundraising resources, from starting a planned giving program to reviewing your annual appeal, a grant writing toolkit and more. The website also features information on the financial aspects of organizations, including IRS Form 990 Basics, a fiscal policy template, information on the Board’s role in fiscal oversight, filing requirements in Florida – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. There’s information on advocacy and setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic/Relevant, Time Limited) goals. I3 Digital provides tools and support right at your fingertips to amplify the impact of efforts that are making a difference in our region. 

This platform builds on the success of our Invest in Incredible Initiative, expanding its reach and capabilities to provide the tools, training, and inspiration nonprofits need to navigate a rapidly changing world. Our hope is that I3 Digital will empower our world-class nonprofits to reach new heights, inspire current and future board members to arm themselves with knowledge about how to serve best the organizations they love and provide easily accessible resources that result in more streamlined and impactful services for our region’s residents. 

The launch of I3 Digital marks an exciting milestone for Gulf Coast Community Foundation and the nonprofits we serve. But more importantly, it represents an opportunity for all of us to grow together. When nonprofits are strong, our communities are strong. Investing in the incredible work being done across our region ensures a brighter future for all.

I invite you to explore I3 Digital and engage with its resources. Don’t forget to share your feedback with us – we hope to grow and deepen our suite of offerings in the years to come. Together, we can continue building a resilient, innovative and collaborative Gulf Coast region that will thrive for generations.