A pillar of community philanthropy quietly collapsed last year, and its loss should deeply concern grant makers. The Brooklyn-based nonprofit crowdfunding platform Ioby — which stands for “In our own backyards” — helped people donate to environmental and social initiatives in their neighborhoods. After operating for 16 years, it shut its doors in September.

As the founder of SeedMoney, a nonprofit crowdfunding platform that helps people who run community food gardens, I often referred projects to Ioby and was alarmed by its closure. It isn’t just the end of a single platform, but a warning to philanthropy about the fragility of nonprofit crowdfunding.

Amid economic uncertainty and shrinking public funding, nonprofit crowdfunding provides an alternative way to raise money when other sources dry up. All crowdfunding platforms — from for-profits such as GoFundMe to nonprofits like Ioby — connect donors with local projects and help people directly improve their communities. But nonprofit platforms go further. They bring funds to under-resourced areas often overlooked by for-profits while providing tools and training to help users raise more money.

These platforms, however, frequently lack the resources to stay viable. Grant makers view them as vehicles to support individual campaigns, not recognizing that they need to also support the platforms themselves. Funders often ask me whether community crowdfunding works. Instead, they should ask how they can support the infrastructure that makes each platform so valuable.

Without nonprofit crowdfunding sources, projects in lower-income areas can struggle to succeed. During the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, for example, wealthy communities raised significantly more through GoFundMe than less well-off neighborhoods. In other words, if more nonprofit platforms close, commercial platforms won’t fill the gap.

Mission Over Margin

Like Ioby, nonprofit crowdfunding organizations often have a specific focus area. DonorsChoose, for example, raises money for teachers of color and schools in low-income areas. GlobalGiving connects donors to local nonprofits around the world. As part of their missions, they also provide fundraisers with coaching, matching funds, and equitable support. Unlike their for-profit counterparts, they don’t just process transactions but strengthen community ties and spark meaningful social change.

It’s not just money raised, but the human connection behind it that makes mission-driven crowdfunding so critical. Many fundraisers are first timers who need help crafting the best narratives to reach potential donors. Many may also struggle to stay motivated. In response, nonprofit platforms typically offer one-on-one guidance via phone and email, which can transform a stalled campaign into a successful one. This improves fundraisers’ confidence and equips them with fundraising skills that outlast a single project.

Many nonprofit platforms also offer matching grants that increase donor engagement. On DonorsChoose, for example, corporations and foundations can match donations to classroom projects. GlobalGiving has its own matching fund to help campaigns reach their target budget.

At SeedMoney, fundraisers from school and community gardens take part in annual 30-day crowdfunding challenges, competing to win a matching grant from us ranging from $100 to $1,000. During that time, we provide encouragement, sample outreach language and graphics, feedback on fundraising plans, and technical assistance on using the platform. We’ve found that for every dollar offered in challenge grants, projects typically raise over four dollars in individual donations.

Nonprofit platforms usually provide these resources with equity in mind. For instance, they often serve as temporary fiscal sponsors, ensuring groups without 501(c)(3) status can still raise tax-deductible donations under the platform’s legal umbrella. This gives low-income or marginalized groups the financial and administrative resources they might otherwise have trouble accessing.

Commercial platforms such as GoFundMe and Kickstarter operate with a fundamentally different model. They prioritize efficiency and volume, sustaining operations through fees and tips. While they provide online resources for fundraisers, they don’t offer hands-on coaching, matching grants, or fiscal sponsorship. And they treat all campaigns the same, regardless of who’s running them or the barriers they face.

Ioby, however, showed just how successful the nonprofit alternative can be. In its final year alone, it launched 234 projects and helped raise nearly $1.4 million, according to a letter from its board chair. During its 16 years, Ioby funded 3,800 projects, raised $21 million, and trained nearly 40,000 local leaders.

Yet despite that strong track record and backing from major funders such as the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Ioby couldn’t secure the long-term flexible funding needed to sustain its operations. And without consistent, philanthropic support for operations, even the most promising models could shutter.

Recognizing Unique Needs

To keep nonprofit crowdfunding viable, funders must understand their distinct needs and tailor support accordingly. Three key investments can help:

Coaching. Grant makers should recognize that one-on-one guidance that helps fundraisers craft their message and rally neighbors is core to a nonprofit platform’s mission, not an optional extra. Platforms just need enough money to offer this assistance. Funders can also help create coaching toolkits, support professional development for coaches, and sponsor retreats where staff can share effective training practices.

Technology. Nonprofit platforms’ technological capabilities often lag behind their for-profit counterparts, which have the money and staff to constantly refine their user experience and include features such as mobile wallets and real-time payments. Artificial intelligence widens the gap. For-profit platforms already use AI to improve user experience, and without it, nonprofit platforms risk falling even further behind.

Grant makers should view all technology as mission-critical infrastructure and fund it accordingly. This includes support for strong data systems to track donor engagement as well as website tools that make campaign creation, social sharing, and donating simpler and quicker. Accessibility features, mobile-friendly website design, and multilingual support are especially essential for under-resourced communities.

Investing in AI in particular can make crowdfunding more efficient and equitable. It can help match projects with donors, coach first-time fundraisers, write fundraising copy, break down language barriers through real-time translation, personalize outreach to potential donors, and help platforms identify under-resourced neighborhoods that need additional grants or coaching. Grant makers can provide training and funding to help nonprofit platforms use AI and advise grantees on ethical and safety considerations.

Challenge and matching grants. Such grants can motivate giving, but nonprofit crowdfunding organizations must raise and distribute the required funds themselves. This is an obvious area where more philanthropic dollars would help.

Nonprofit crowdfunding delivers benefits beyond dollars raised, such as bringing neighbors together and developing community leaders. While these outcomes are hard to quantify, grant makers can encourage platforms to track, evaluate, and communicate these success stories. Such efforts will help them make the case to other foundations about why they need support.

Ioby’s closure doesn’t mean that nonprofit crowdfunding is failing. It just proves that even the best platforms can’t stay in business without reliable funding. Grant makers can change that scenario by treating mission-driven crowdfunding platforms as the irreplaceable civic infrastructure they are.

Update, July 2026: In the year since this piece ran, we’ve tried to practice what it preaches. Working with a volunteer team of computer science students from Hack4Impact at the University of Maryland, SeedMoney built new campaign infrastructure that lets us launch and manage hundreds of garden crowdfunding campaigns at once — removing the technical ceiling that had limited how many projects our annual Challenge could serve. Applications for this fall’s SeedMoney Challenge are open now through November 12. Ioby’s story ended. With the right support, ours doesn’t have to.

The post Why the Quiet Collapse of a Crowdfunding Platform Should Alarm Philanthropy appeared first on SeedMoney.

Building and Installing Garden Infrastructure

Organizing Volunteer Workdays

Volunteer workdays are not only crucial for the physical building of the garden but also for fostering a sense of ownership and community among participants. Organize these days with clear goals and tasks, such as constructing raised beds, installing irrigation systems, or landscaping communal areas. Providing tools, guidance, and refreshments can help turn hard work into a fun and rewarding experience.

Constructing Essential Elements

Key infrastructural elements like raised beds, fencing, and pathways form the backbone of your garden. Utilize sustainable materials and environmentally friendly practices wherever possible. For example, opt for untreated wood for raised beds and permeable materials for pathways to enhance the garden’s sustainability.

Installing Systems

Efficient irrigation systems, composting setups, and even solar lighting can make a significant difference in the garden’s functionality. Consider the garden’s layout and the needs of the plants and gardeners when choosing the types of systems to install, aiming for solutions that conserve resources and promote ease of use.

Recruiting Garden Participants and Volunteers

Promoting the Garden

Use a mix of traditional and digital marketing strategies to attract participants and volunteers. Flyers in community centers, posts on social media, and local newspaper articles can all raise awareness of the garden. Highlight the benefits of participation, such as access to fresh produce, educational opportunities, and being part of a community initiative.

Developing Membership Processes

Create a clear and straightforward process for people to join the garden. This might include membership applications, fees, and orientation sessions. Ensure the process is inclusive and reflects the values of the community, providing equal opportunities for all interested individuals.

Establishing Volunteer Programs

A structured volunteer program can help keep the garden well-maintained and vibrant. Identify various roles needed for garden upkeep, educational programs, and events. Offering training, recognition, and social opportunities can help retain volunteers and make their experience enriching.

Garden Maintenance and Operations

Creating Maintenance Schedules

Regular maintenance is key to a thriving garden. Develop a schedule that includes watering, weeding, harvesting, and other tasks. Assign responsibilities to garden members or volunteer teams to ensure the garden remains well-cared for throughout the growing season.

Supporting Gardeners

Provide gardeners with the tools, resources, and knowledge they need to succeed. Workshops on gardening techniques, pest management, and plant care can empower gardeners to take proactive care of their plots and contribute positively to the overall garden.

Implementing Guidelines

Clear guidelines on garden etiquette, safety, and environmental practices help maintain a harmonious and productive environment. Regularly review and adjust these guidelines based on feedback and the evolving needs of the garden community.

Sustaining Your Community Garden

Evaluating the Garden’s Success

Regular assessment of the garden’s impact on the community, the environment, and its members helps identify areas for improvement. Surveys, feedback sessions, and garden audits can provide valuable insights into the garden’s performance and areas for growth.

Engaging with the Community

Continuous engagement with the garden community and the broader local community helps keep the project relevant and supported. Host events, participate in local initiatives, and keep the lines of communication open to encourage ongoing involvement and investment in the garden’s success.

Exploring Expansion and Partnerships

As the garden matures, opportunities for expansion or the development of new programs may arise. Collaborations with schools, businesses, and other local organizations can bring new resources, participants, and energy to the garden, driving further community impact.

Celebrating Achievements

Recognize and celebrate the milestones, achievements, and contributions of garden members and supporters. Annual harvest festivals, volunteer appreciation events, and public acknowledgments can reinforce the value of the garden to the community and encourage continued support and involvement.

Conclusion: Sustaining a Community Garden Takes a Community!

A community garden is more than just a space for growing plants; it’s a dynamic community asset that requires care, dedication, and strategic planning to sustain. By building a solid infrastructure, fostering a committed community of gardeners and volunteers, and continuously seeking ways to improve and expand, your garden can become a lasting source of joy, education, and green space for your community.

Remember, the true success of a community garden lies in the strength of its community and its positive impact on the environment and local food systems. With patience, passion, and perseverance, your garden will

The post Sustaining a Community Garden: Growing Health and Hope appeared first on SeedMoney.

Raised bed gardens have gained popularity among gardeners of all levels of experience. These elevated garden beds offer numerous benefits and are a great solution for those with limited space or poor soil quality. They are very versatile and work well for home gardens as well as school gardens and community gardens. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what raised bed gardens are, their benefits, and provide step-by-step instructions on how to build and get the most out of them. But before we dive into the details, let’s take a closer look at why raised bed gardens have become so popular.

The Benefits of Raised Bed Gardens

Raised bed gardens offer a range of benefits for gardeners:

• Improved Soil Quality: By creating a raised bed, you have control over the soil composition. This allows you to create the perfect growing environment for your plants, ensuring they receive the necessary nutrients and drainage. You can add organic matter, such as compost or manure, to enrich the soil and improve its structure. This is particularly beneficial for gardeners who have poor quality soil in their yard or live in urban areas with contaminated soil.
• Enhanced Drainage: Raised beds provide excellent drainage, preventing waterlogging and allowing excess water to flow away from the plant roots. This is particularly advantageous for plants that are sensitive to overwatering, such as herbs or succulents. Additionally, the improved drainage can help prevent the spread of soil-borne diseases that thrive in moist conditions.
• Reduced Weed Growth: The elevated nature of raised beds makes it more difficult for weeds to establish and spread. The sides of the bed act as a barrier, preventing weed seeds from blowing in or being carried by animals. Additionally, by using a weed barrier or mulch, you can further suppress weed growth and minimize the need for manual weeding. This reduces the amount of time and effort required for weed control, allowing you to focus on more enjoyable aspects of gardening.
• Extended Growing Season: The soil in raised beds tends to warm up more quickly in the spring, allowing for earlier planting. The elevated nature of the beds exposes them to more sunlight, which helps retain heat and provides a favorable microclimate for plants. Additionally, the sides of the beds act as a windbreak, protecting delicate plants from chilly winds and extending the growing season. This is especially beneficial for gardeners in cooler climates or those who want to grow heat-loving crops.
• Accessibility: Raised beds are easier to reach and maintain, making them ideal for individuals with physical limitations or those who prefer not to bend down or kneel while gardening. The raised height reduces strain on the back and knees, allowing for comfortable gardening. This accessibility also makes it easier to inspect and tend to plants, harvest crops, and perform necessary maintenance tasks, such as pruning or fertilizing.
• Improved Pest Control: Raised beds can be covered with netting or other protective materials, preventing pests from damaging your plants. This physical barrier can deter common garden pests, such as rabbits, squirrels, or birds, from accessing your crops. Additionally, you can implement companion planting or use natural pest control methods, such as introducing beneficial insects or using organic pest repellents, to further protect your plants. By reducing pest pressure, you can minimize the need for chemical pesticides and create a healthier, more sustainable garden ecosystem.

How to Build a Raised Bed Garden

Building a raised bed garden is a relatively simple process. Follow these steps to create your own:

1. Choose a Location

Select a location for your raised bed garden that receives adequate sunlight and is easily accessible for watering and maintenance. Ensure that the area is level and free from any obstructions.

2. Determine the Size and Shape

Decide on the dimensions and shape of your raised bed. Consider factors such as the available space, your gardening needs, and any aesthetic preferences. Popular shapes include rectangular, square, and circular.

3. Gather Materials

Collect the necessary materials for constructing your raised bed. This typically includes lumber, screws or nails, a saw, and a drill. Alternatively, you can use stone, bricks, or other materials depending on your preference and budget.

4. Build the Frame

Using your chosen materials, construct the frame of the raised bed. Cut the lumber to the desired lengths and attach the pieces together using screws or nails. Ensure that the corners are square and the frame is sturdy.

5. Prepare the Area

Clear the area where the raised bed will be placed. Remove any grass, weeds, or debris. If desired, lay down a weed barrier to further prevent weed growth.

6. Place the Frame

Position the frame in the desired location, ensuring it is level and stable. If necessary, use a level or shims to adjust the frame. Secure the frame in place by driving stakes into the ground or attaching it to a solid structure.

7. Fill the Bed

Fill the raised bed with a mixture of soil, compost, and other organic matter. This will provide the necessary nutrients for plant growth. Mix the materials thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution.

8. Start Gardening

Your raised bed garden is now ready for planting! Choose your desired plants, following the recommended spacing and planting instructions for each variety. Water regularly and provide any necessary support or protection as the plants grow.

Once you have built your raised bed garden, it’s important to maintain it properly to ensure the health and productivity of your plants. Regular maintenance tasks include watering, weeding, and fertilizing. Water your plants regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil moist. Weeds can compete with your plants for nutrients and water, so it’s important to keep the area around your raised bed garden free from weeds. Pull out any weeds that may sprout and use mulch to suppress weed growth. Fertilize your plants with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to provide them with the necessary nutrients. Additionally, monitor your plants for any signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate action to prevent or treat them.

Another important aspect of maintaining a raised bed garden is crop rotation. This involves changing the location of your plants each year to prevent the buildup of pests and diseases in the soil. By rotating your crops, you can maintain the health of your plants and improve overall garden productivity. Keep a record of what you plant each year and plan your crop rotation accordingly.

Finally, don’t forget to enjoy the fruits of your labor! Harvest your crops when they are ripe and ready to be eaten. This will ensure that you get the best flavor and nutritional value from your homegrown produce. Share your harvest with family and friends or preserve it for later use through canning, freezing, or drying. Growing your own food in a raised bed garden can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, providing you with fresh, healthy produce and a deeper connection to nature.

7. Implement a Composting System

One of the key ways to maintain a healthy and productive raised bed garden is by implementing a composting system. Compost is a nutrient-rich organic matter that can be added to the soil to improve its fertility and structure. Set up a compost bin or pile near your garden and regularly add kitchen scraps, yard waste, and other organic materials. Turn the compost regularly to speed up the decomposition process and produce nutrient-rich compost for your raised bed garden.

8. Use Organic Pest Control Methods

To protect your plants from pests without the use of harmful chemicals, employ organic pest control methods. This can include techniques such as handpicking pests, using insecticidal soaps or oils, and attracting beneficial insects to your garden. Additionally, practicing companion planting with plants that repel pests can help deter them from your raised bed garden.

9. Provide Adequate Support for Heavy Crops

Some plants, such as melons or squash, can produce heavy fruits that may need extra support to prevent them from breaking the stems or falling to the ground. Use trellises, cages, or other support structures to keep these crops off the ground and ensure their proper growth and development.

10. Regularly Amend the Soil

Over time, the soil in your raised bed garden may become depleted of nutrients. To maintain the fertility of the soil, regularly amend it with organic matter such as compost, well-rotted manure, or worm castings. This will replenish the nutrients and improve the overall health of your plants.

11. Harvest and Preserve Your Produce

As your plants start to produce fruits or vegetables, make sure to harvest them at their peak ripeness. This will ensure the best flavor and quality. Additionally, consider preserving any excess produce through methods such as canning, freezing, or dehydrating. This way, you can enjoy the fruits of your raised bed garden even during the off-season.

Conclusion

In conclusion, raised bed gardens represent a versatile and highly beneficial approach to gardening that suits a wide range of environments and gardening styles. From improving soil quality and enhancing drainage to extending the growing season and making gardening accessible to everyone, the advantages are numerous and impactful. By following the steps outlined in this guide to build and maintain your raised bed garden, you can enjoy a productive and rewarding gardening experience.

Resources

OSU Extension Service on Raised Bed Gardening: This comprehensive resource from the Oregon State University Extension Service covers the benefits of raised bed gardening, including solutions for poor soil conditions and methods for avoiding soil contamination. It provides detailed guidance on both framed and unframed raised beds, including soil preparation and maintenance tips. This guide is especially useful for individuals seeking research-based gardening practices​ (OSU Extension Service)​.

The post A Comprehensive Guide to Raised Bed Gardens: Benefits, Building, and Maintenance appeared first on SeedMoney.

Winter is coming! Is your vegetable garden ready? Proper winter preparation sets the stage for a healthy, bountiful garden once spring arrives again. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to do to winterize your vegetable garden, no matter your climate.

Caring for Vegetables:

Tender Vegetables

Tender vegetables like tomatoes, beans, peppers, eggplants, and squash are the most vulnerable when cold temperatures arrive. Once nighttime temperatures drop below 45°F, their growth dramatically slows. A hard frost will blacken and kill the plants.

To maximize yields:

• Check short-term weather forecasts regularly as fall approaches so you can anticipate cold nights and harvest accordingly.
• Harvest green tomatoes, peppers, squash, and eggplant before frost strikes. Allow to finish ripening indoors.
• Pick peas and beans when pods reach full size but before they dry on the vine.
• Harvest all pumpkins and winter squash once their rind hardens. Cure for 10 days in a warm area before storing.
• Store tender veggies in a cool, dry indoor location. Check frequently for spoilage.

Hardy Vegetables

Crops in the cabbage family like kale, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts actually taste better after being exposed to cooler fall temperatures. Light frosts bring out their sweetness!

• Time your harvests of hardy greens based on your taste preferences and meal plans.
• If hard freezes are forecast, temporarily cover plants with cloches, old sheets, or burlap to protect them.
• For kitchen gardeners, try growing spinach and kale in containers that can be moved indoors as needed.

Semi-Hardy Vegetables

This group includes beets, onions, carrots, potatoes, Swiss chard, cabbage, and celery. A few adaptability tactics can keep them thriving through early winter:

• Prolong harvest by protecting with cloches or cold frames when hard freezes loom.
• Mulch heavily around their root zones to insulate the soil and prevent heaving.
• Harvest beets, carrots, and potatoes once nighttime temps drop below freezing. Store in a cold cellar or buried in straw.
• Celery, cabbage, leeks and chard can withstand temps as low as 20°F when mature. Harvest outer leaves as needed.

Caring for Herbs:

To winterize your vegetable garden effectively, you also need to pay attention to pay attention to your herbs, your veggies’ culinary helpers!

Annual Herbs

• Basil, cilantro, dill – These annual herbs die off with frost and can’t withstand freezing. Pull plants before they’re ruined by cold weather.
• Consider potting a basil plant to keep indoors near a sunny window. Pinch back tips frequently to encourage bushy growth.

Hardy Perennial Herbs

• Thyme, sage, oregano, chives – Allow these classic perennial herbs to go dormant in winter as long as your climate isn’t extremely harsh.
• Cut back any dead growth in early spring as plants resume growth.
• For a winter harvest, pot up a few thyme and sage plants to keep indoors near a window.

Tender Perennial Herbs

• Rosemary, lemon balm, mints – These require a bit more protection to survive winter due to their Mediterranean origins.
• In cold climates, transplant rosemary and lemon balm into containers before frost hits. Maintain indoors over winter.
• Heavily mulch mint beds using straw or evergreen branches to protect their shallow roots.

Caring for Fruit Beds & Trees:

• Berry patches: Clear away any dead leaves or weeds from your berry patches. Then, apply a thick layer of mulch to protect the roots of your plants.
• Fruit trees: Wrap young fruit trees with tree wrap to protect them from frost cracks and sun scalding. You may also want to prune your fruit trees in the fall to remove any dead or diseased branches.

General Garden Care & Maintenance:

• Turn off and drain all garden hoses and irrigation systems. Disconnect rain barrels.
• Clean, sharpen, and oil your garden tools before storing them for the winter.
• Spread a layer of compost or other organic matter over empty garden beds to protect the soil from erosion, add nutrients and help winterize your vegetable garden.
• Monitor your compost pile and turn it one last time in the late fall to speed decomposition before winter.
• Decide which annual flower beds or vegetable gardens you want to enrich over the winter. Consider planting a cover crop like hairy vetch or winter rye to prevent erosion, suppress weeds, and add organic material to the soil when tilled under in spring.
• Protect your favorite garden sculptures or ornamentation from harsh winter weather by covering or storing them in a shed or garage.

Conclusion:

By following these simple steps, you can winterize your vegetable garden and ensure that your plants are healthy and ready to grow again next spring.

The post Winterize Your Vegetable Garden: 4 Steps to Unlock a Hearty Harvest Next Year appeared first on SeedMoney.