Episode Summary

Drew, founder of Bridge, shares how his organization serves as a "startup starting startups" for democracy and justice initiatives across Texas. From his unexpected journey (farmer to sommelier to civic leader) to building a support system for early-stage nonprofits, Drew reveals what it takes to scale impact in the civic engagement space.

Host:

Zac Brown: “The Non-Profit Guy”

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

Guest

Drew Galloway - Founder & Executive Director, Bridge

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

Impact (4 Years)

🟢36 organizations started/scaled

🟢$9M in new funding to Texas

🟢First state-based democracy startup accelerator in US

Bridge Programs

🟢Incubator: 15 weeks, $5K grant

🟢Accelerator: $50K funding + $50K+ fundraising campaign

🟢Rest Residency: Sabbaticals for burned-out founders

🟢Collective: Ongoing alumni support

Drew's Journey

Wine sommelier (10 years) → Experienced housing discrimination (2011) → White House intern → MOVE Texas ED (120K voters registered) → Founded Bridge

Key Insights

🟢Fundraising Reality

• "Fundraising problems" are usually identity/clarity issues
• Practice matters most: dedicate 10-20 hours/week
• Treat fundraising like organizing: "Do you want to join us?"
• Can't outsource donor relationships

🟢Leadership Evolution: Founders must shift from programmatic work to strategic/fundraising focus as organizations grow

🟢Money Mindset: Reshape your relationship with money to confidently ask for support

🟢Alternative Revenue: Nonprofits are experts, consider co-working spaces, consulting, event venues

Top Quotes

"Strong leaders build strong movements." "Fundraising is a full-time plus job." "All politics are retail."

Support Bridge

🟢Volunteer: Mentor founders (few hours/quarter)

🟢Websites: bridgeinfrastructure.org bridgemovements.org

🟢Social: @BridgeMovements

Takeaways

1. Clarify identity before fundraising
2. Block 10-20 hours/week for fundraising
3. Embrace strategic leadership transition
4. Explore ethical alternative revenue
5. Prioritize rest