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Aly Sterling Philanthropy Alternatives: 7 Fundraising Firms to Consider in 2026

Aly Sterling Philanthropy is a respected consulting firm that helps nonprofits strengthen fundraising, strategic planning, and board leadership. The firm is particularly well known for its partnership-driven approach and experience working with established organizations.

However, depending on your goals, budget, and internal resources, another fundraising partner may be a better fit.

In this guide, we'll explore some of the best alternatives to Aly Sterling Philanthropy and explain which organizations they serve best.

Why Organizations Look for Alternatives to Aly Sterling Philanthropy

Aly Sterling Philanthropy has a strong reputation, but nonprofits often seek alternatives because:

  • They need more hands-on fundraising execution.

  • They are focused on donor acquisition and donor reactivation.

  • They want help building corporate partnerships.

  • Their organization is too small for traditional consulting.

  • They need digital fundraising expertise.

  • They prefer a more flexible engagement model.

The right partner depends on your organization's goals and long-term fundraising strategy.

1. LAVA Fundraising

Best for: Donor outreach and corporate partnerships.

LAVA Fundraising helps nonprofits build predictable fundraising pipelines through personalized outreach and relationship-building. Rather than focusing solely on consulting, LAVA works as an extension of the organization's team.

Services include:

  • Donor reactivation

  • Corporate sponsorship outreach

  • Personalized email campaigns

  • Cold calling and follow-up

  • LinkedIn outreach

  • Pipeline management

Organizations looking for practical execution and flexible collaboration may find LAVA Fundraising to be a strong fit.

2. Donorly

Best for: Small and growing nonprofits.

Donorly specializes in donor stewardship, fundraising systems, and campaign planning.

3. Graham-Pelton

Best for: Major gifts and campaign strategy.

Graham-Pelton helps organizations strengthen donor relationships and prepare for transformational fundraising initiatives.

4. DNL OmniMedia

Best for: Digital fundraising and nonprofit technology.

DNL OmniMedia combines fundraising expertise with Salesforce consulting and digital engagement solutions.

5. NextAfter

Best for: Online fundraising optimization.

NextAfter uses research and experimentation to improve digital fundraising performance and donor conversion rates.

6. DickersonBakker

Best for: Faith-based organizations and capital campaigns.

DickersonBakker provides strategic planning, campaign support, and executive search services for nonprofits and ministries.

7. CCS Fundraising

Best for: Large institutions and campaign management.

CCS Fundraising works with universities, healthcare systems, and national nonprofits seeking strategic fundraising support.

Comparison Table

AgencyBest ForAly Sterling PhilanthropyStrategic planning and board leadershipLAVA FundraisingDonor outreach and corporate partnershipsDonorlySmall nonprofitsGraham-PeltonMajor gifts and campaign strategyDNL OmniMediaDigital fundraising and SalesforceNextAfterOnline fundraising optimizationDickersonBakkerFaith-based organizationsCCS FundraisingLarge institutions

How to Choose the Right Fundraising Partner

Before selecting an agency, ask yourself:

  • Do we need strategy or execution?

  • Are we trying to acquire new donors?

  • Do we need help with corporate sponsorships?

  • What size is our organization?

  • Do we need digital expertise?

  • Are we preparing for a major campaign?

Different firms specialize in different areas, and no single agency is ideal for every nonprofit.

Final Thoughts

Aly Sterling Philanthropy remains one of the most respected consulting firms serving the nonprofit sector. However, organizations looking for more execution-focused support, donor outreach, digital fundraising expertise, or corporate partnership development may benefit from exploring alternative fundraising firms.

Ultimately, the best fundraising partner is the one that aligns with your mission, resources, and long-term goals.