Building a Mission-Driven Nonprofit That Pays the Bills (Maggie Kane)

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How do you stay true to your mission while keeping the lights on? In episode 316 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we dive into that question and others with Maggie Kane, who shares the story behind A Place at the Table, a nonprofit café in Raleigh, NC, where good food and community go hand in hand through a pay-what-you-can model. You’ll hear candid lessons about sustaining a powerful mission with sound financial strategy, balancing fundraising, revenue generation, and creative pivots when the economy shifts. From developing a board from hands-on to strategic, to hiring for mission alignment, to introducing catering and curbside services, this conversation offers practical insights for nonprofit leaders navigating growth. It’s a masterclass in inclusive leadership, strategic planning, and building a culture where staff, volunteers, and diners feel seen, heard, and valued.

"A great mission isn’t enough. You need a plan to fund it, grow it, and make it last."

ABOUT MAGGIE

Maggie is the Founder and Executive Director of A Place at the Table, Raleigh’s first pay-what-you-can nonprofit cafe. She graduated from NC State University in 2013 and began working for a nonprofit with people experiencing homelessness. By befriending many people living on the margins, she saw the challenges of food insecurity as well as providing dignity to those in need. In February 2015, A Place at the Table was born and Maggie never looked back. Opening in January 2018, Table has served thousands of people in Raleigh with a dignified and an affordable meal, together. Maggie has a heart to serve, a desire to always be inclusive, and a passion for loving people. She lives in Raleigh, loves to jump rope, and eats a large amount of peanut butter. She loves hiking in the mountains, and all things sunflowers.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• We’re proud that Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership has been recognized by FeedSpot as the #1 podcast in Philanthropy! 
• Maggie’s book: Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World by Dr. Vivek Murthy 
• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire
• Want to chat leadership 24/7?  Go to delphi.ai/pattonmcdowell
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership
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