Theoretical frameworks deepen practitioner understanding of fundraising mechanisms in both novice and advanced organizations.
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Foundation for Philanthropy has awarded the 2026 AFP/Skystone Partners Prize for Research on Fundraising and Philanthropy to Jen Newmeyer for her book, “Digital Fundraising Transformation: The Insider’s Guide to Revolutionize Your Strategy and Raise More,” published by Civil Sector Press.
Combining theory, application, and behavioral insight, this book reframes digital fundraising as a strategic function within philanthropy. It introduces a new integrated model, offers maturity scorecards, and includes a guided framework for practical implementation. It helps nonprofits understand, measure, and evolve their digital engagement strategies in a shifting philanthropic landscape. The jury noted the author’s use of theoretical frameworks that deepen practitioner understandings of fundraising mechanisms in both novice and advanced organizations.
The author is an experienced fundraiser and consultant, specializing in integrated campaigns, donor engagement, and audience development. On winning the award, Ms. Newmeyer said “It is truly an honor to receive the Skystone Partners Prize and to be recognized alongside such an extraordinary group of recipients. I’m incredibly grateful to the many nonprofit leaders, colleagues, and fundraisers I’ve worked alongside throughout my career. Their ideas, dedication, and passion have shaped this work in countless ways. I’m deeply thankful to the AFP Foundation and Skystone Partners for recognizing the importance of advancing digital fundraising in our field.”
Each year, the AFP Research Council awards the Skystone Partners Prize for Research to the author or authors of a book that contributes substantially to the knowledge and understanding of fundraising or philanthropic behavior. The award is made possible by an endowment established by Skystone Partners, an international fundraising consulting firm, through the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy to encourage advanced research that extends the knowledge of fundraising and philanthropy.
Elizabeth Knuppel, president and CEO of Skystone Partners, shared, “Skystone Partners is delighted to see Jen Newmeyer’s “Digital Fundraising Transformation” recognized with this year’s Skystone Partners Prize for Research on Fundraising and Philanthropy. Established and endowed by Skystone Partners more than 30 years ago, this one-of-a-kind prize honors distinguished research and writing that advance understanding of fundraising and philanthropy in ways that are both substantive and useful to the field. Jen’s book reflects that purpose well, deepening practitioner understanding and offering practical value to organizations seeking to strengthen their fundraising strategies.”
The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy champions philanthropy and volunteerism by strengthening the nonprofit sector’s current and future leaders, welcoming diverse new voices into the charitable world, and rigorously upholding the highest standards of ethics. The foundation currently focuses on developing fundraising leadership programs, supporting research on critical issues in the profession, building a stronger sector through a more diverse workforce, and renewing public trust in charitable organizations. More information about the foundation can be found at www.afpglobal.org/USFoundation.
