News

eTapestry Becomes a One-Stop Shop for Indianapolis Nonprofit

jesslinger — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 09:24:09 -0400

Susan G Komen for the Cure Indianapolis has a simple and direct mission statement: "To eradicate breast cancer through research, education, screening and treatment". While it only takes one sentence to describe their goal, it takes a lot of people, organization, and effort to accomplish it.

In an effort to become more efficient with their resources, Komen Indianapolis recently conducted an audit of their fundraising software and what they needed it to do. They considered Best Practices, as well as what would streamline their processes and utilize their time and resources most effectively. After speaking with other organizations that used various software products, they found that eTapestry was still the best software for their needs. They realized that there were changes that they could make in the way they utilized their eTapestry database that would minimize the time and resource issues they were experiencing.

One of those changes was purchasing Advanced Import.

The Indianapolis affiliate used eTapestry to import selected Race for the Cure registration information into their database. They would obtain an excel spreadsheet from their Race Software and send that to eTapestry, who would perform a data service that would import the information. There were so many Race for the Cure donations to enter each year that Komen Indianapolis had to restrict the donations they imported to only those who gave gifts of $100 or more in order to reduce the amount of information eTapestry imported.

"We researched Advanced Import and found it to be a very user friendly tool" states Letha Keslar, Director of Development for the Indianapolis of Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. "We love Advanced Import! We were able to import every donor from the Race this year, regardless of their donation amount. It has made our gift processing at Race time so much easier and timely!"

Susan G. Komen for the Cure is the world's largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors. There are affiliates in 125 cities and communities worldwide. Komen relies heavily on volunteers in order to accomplish their goals in so many areas.

"Due to the fact that we have so many volunteers, who generally aren't in the office making notes on their outreach efforts, we ask them to use an excel spreadsheet," states Letha. Before getting Advanced Import, a volunteer would have to spend a great deal of time manually entering each contact from each volunteer spreadsheet. This was very time consuming due to the extensive notes they try to keep, so making sure that the donor's contacts and notes were up to date proved to be difficult at times.

"With the Advanced Import tool I can just upload all of the notes and contacts directly from the volunteer spreadsheets, keeping the database updated with all communication between Komen Indianapolis and donors. Now when we contact donors I feel more confident that we are working with the most up-to-date information," states Letha.

eTapestry module options like Advanced Import help keep Komen Indianapolis budget down by not using different applications or third party companies in order to have all of the functions they need. Due to eTapestry's versatility, they have started using eTap as a dashboard-type user interface that can be the launching point for many of the functions they need to utilize on a daily basis. The purchase of Advanced Import made it possible to store and manage the contacts, notes, and follow-ups for their constituents. They also started using the Correspondence section of eTapestry instead of Word due to the huge time-saver that the data merge values have proven to be.

Another change that has allowed this dashboard-type approach of eTapestry to work for Komen Indianapolis is the link between their database and their online giving page. They used to use a different online giving page provider, but recently switched to an eTapestry eCommerce page, which pushes the data from the page directly into their database in real time, as opposed to the manual entry they did previously. "Between the capabilities of Advanced Import and the communication between the eCommerce Online Giving page and the database, so much data entry time has been saved, which is wonderful when you have such limited personnel resources!" Letha said.

"For a small non-profit with a very small staff, such as Komen Indianapolis, eTapestry is a very helpful, effective tool!" states Letha. "Such a powerful database with limitless customer service at such an affordable price is hard to believe."

About Susan G. Komen for the Cure® and the Komen Indianapolis Affiliate

Nancy G. Brinker promised her dying sister, Susan G. Komen, she would do everything in her power to end breast cancer forever. In 1982, that promise became Susan G. Komen for the Cure and launched the global breast cancer movement. The Indianapolis Affiliate of Komen for the Cure is working to better the lives of those facing breast cancer in the local community. They join more than 100,000 breast cancer survivors and activists around the globe as part of the world's largest and most progressive grassroots network fighting breast cancer. In 2008, Komen Indianapolis awarded $1,616,000 to 25 different Indiana not for profit agencies that are providing education services to 31,000 men and women, clinical breast exams for 3,831 women, and mammograms for 3,913 men and women. Additionally $800,000 was contributed to the Komen's National Research Program that utilizes a blind peer review process to screen and select national scientific and clinical research projects involved in finding a cure for breast cancer. Locally, there are six research projects currently being funded with Komen dollars. For more information, call 317-638-2873 or visit www.komenindy.org.

About eTapestry

Since its release as the first web-based fundraising software for nonprofits in 1999, eTapestry has grown to a leadership position with over 5000 nonprofit customers worldwide. eTapestry provides On-Demand fundraising solutions, including a donor database, website development, ecommerce, and advanced email. To learn more, visit us at www.etapestry.com, or call us at 888-739-3827. eTapestry is a Blackbaud Company.

eTapestry: Making innovation fun

jesslinger — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 15:55:41 -0400

Tech firm is on leading edge because of its relaxed workplace atmosphere

Derek R. Smith
dsmith@greenfieldreporter.com
Mt. Comfort

What began with meetings in a basement has evolved over the past decade into eTapestry, a technology company with a 35 percent growth rate that topped $10 million in revenues last year.

eTapestry provides web-based solutions to the nonprofit sector and has more than 6,000 customers. Its software is designed to be convenient for nonprofit organizations by not requiring maintenance, updates and other information technology work.

The Mt. Comfort-based firm and its parent organization have customers in 55 countries.

Read the full story >>

eTapestry Releases Spanish Language Version of its On-Demand Software

jesslinger — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 21:23:03 -0400

Indianapolis, IN - (July 7, 2008) – eTapestry today announced the availability of its on-demand fundraising software in a Spanish language version. eTapestry Espanol will provide a new group of growing nonprofits around the world with web-based tools to efficiently and effectively manage their fundraising activities.

"With eTapestry users accessing their data from points all over the globe, it was plain to see that eTapestry's on demand software was opening up new opportunities for organizations everywhere," said Jay Love, eTapestry's chief executive officer.

According to John Moore, eTapestry's CTO and vice president of development, eTapestry is uniquely positioned to offer the product in a new, international market:

"The need for automation and data segmentation is universal, but from the very beginning, eTapestry was architected with an eye toward offering the product on an international scale," said Moore. "This framework allows eTapestry to concentrate on how nonprofit organizations run their business rather than the traditional maintenance overhead of maintaining multiple versions of the software."

Moore added, "Being a Software as a Service (SaaS) offering, we are positioned to rapidly evolve the product in a new market. We don't have the limitation of client-installed software so our release cycle can be very aggressive. The customers will realize the benefits much quicker because their suggestions are incorporated into the product within a few weeks rather than months."

In 2006, eTapestry began creating the multi-lingual version to assist Spanish-speaking clients in several U.S. cities including San Diego, Miami, and Houston. After gaining great feedback from early adopters, developers were able to make the changes necessary to expand the eTapestry software into larger international markets.

That effort complimented the international development plans of Blackbaud, eTapestry's parent company. Working together, they began to develop a strategy to introduce eTapestry Espanol to Latin America.

"The nonprofit community in Latin America is rapidly growing and needs software to better manage donor relations and overall accountability," said Andrew Mosawi, Blackbaud's vice president of international business development. "It is a market that has been underserved by the nonprofit software industry thus far, and we are pleased to provide an on-demand solution that is tailored to the unique needs of these growing organizations."

Company representatives presented eTapestry Espanol to a group of nonprofits at an event earlier this year organized by the Association of Fundraising Professionals in Mexico City. The overwhelmingly positive response resulted in the recent formation of a pilot program. Mosawi noted, "The pilot program in Mexico is in its early stages, but is making great progress and we expect that our current international client base of more than 2200 organizations in 55 countries will grow significantly. Upon successful completion of the pilot program in Mexico City, we can then look to expand to other countries including Argentina, Chile and Spain – ¡El cielo es el límite! (the sky is the limit!)"

About eTapestry

Founded in 1999, Indianapolis-based eTapestry® is the first web-based donor database and communications management system that delivers its software over the Internet, allowing access from desktops, laptops and mobile devices. eTapestry's web site development, ecommerce and advanced email tools give its more than 3,000 customers a fully integrated and maintenance free solution. For more information, visit www.eTapestry.com. eTapestry is a Blackbaud company.

About Blackbaud

Blackbaud® is the leading global provider of software and services designed specifically for nonprofit organizations, enabling them to improve operational efficiency, build strong relationships, and raise more money to support their missions. Approximately 19,000 organizations — including the American Red Cross, Dartmouth College, the WGBH Educational Foundation, Episcopal High School, Lincoln Center, Cancer Research UK, Special Olympics, and Arthritis Foundation — use one or more of Blackbaud's products and services for fundraising, constituent relationship management, financial management, direct marketing, school administration, ticketing, business intelligence, website management, prospect research, consulting, and analytics. Since 1981, Blackbaud's sole focus and expertise has been partnering with nonprofits and providing them the solutions they need to make a difference in their local communities and worldwide. Headquartered in the United States, Blackbaud also has operations in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. For more information, visit www.blackbaud.com.

Media Contacts:

Steve Rusche
eTapestry
steve.rusche@eTapestry.com
317.336.3827(etap) x224

Melanie Milonas
Blackbaud, Inc.
melanie.milonas@blackbaud.com
843.216.6200 x3307

Source: eTapestry

Forward-looking Statements
Except for historical information, all of the statements, expectations, and assumptions contained in this news release are forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Although Blackbaud attempts to be accurate in making these forward-looking statements, it is possible that future circumstances might differ from the assumptions on which such statements are based. In addition, other important factors that could cause results to differ materially include the following risks related to the expected timing and financial or other benefits of the Kintera acquisition: management of integration of acquired companies and other risks associated with acquisitions; uncertainty regarding increased business and renewals from existing customers; continued success in sales growth; general economic risks; risk associated with successful implementation of multiple integrated software products; the ability to attract and retain key personnel; risks related to our dividend policy and share repurchase program, including potential limitations on our ability to grow and the possibility that we might discontinue payment of dividends; risks relating to restrictions imposed by the credit facility; risks associated with management of growth; lengthy sales and implementation cycles, particularly in larger organizations; technological changes that make our products and services less competitive; and the other risk factors set forth from time to time in the SEC filings for Blackbaud, copies of which are available free of charge at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov upon request from Blackbaud's investor relations department.

All Blackbaud product names appearing herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of Blackbaud, Inc.

Addressing Needs, Meeting Expectations

jesslinger — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 21:15:35 -0400

When Marla Cautilli took her position as Development Director at Summit Academy in Louisville, Kentucky, she was thrilled about the mission of the school and about working to benefit children with learning disabilities. She was not so excited about the donor database that the school was using. She was not familiar with the software. In fact, no one was. Both of the employees that utilized that database were no longer with the organization. When they looked into the cost of training the staff on this software, they decided the best short-term solution would be to create their own database. They used that for about a year, during which time they searched for a donor tracking system that had the flexibility of a self-designed database, user-friendly features, compatibility with their fundraising process, and a competitive price. Those needs are what drew them to eTapestry.

Summit Academy adopted the Benevon model of fundraising in 2004. Benevon provides training and coaching for nonprofits around a specific fundraising strategy. At their first workshop they heard about eTapestry and their Next Step component that is designed specifically for organizations using Benevon. Summit experienced success with the Benevon fundraising process and saw eTapestry as a perfect way to take their fundraising to a new level. While the price and capabilities of the eTapestry database were the reason they chose eTapestry, the purchase came with an unexpected positive feature - the ears of the eTapestry staff.

The mission of Summit Academy is to teach children the way they learn rather than expecting them to learn the way we teach. This is accomplished by listening to the individual needs of each child. When Marla discovered that a data tracking system could adjust to her organizations needs, just like Summit Academy adjusts to the needs of its students, she was impressed. "eTapestry really listens!" states Marla. "They understand what I need or want, and they make changes to accommodate me. It's amazing!"

Marla began using the eTapestry database 4 years ago, and over the years their needs changed. They had to be able to store and track information differently within the database to reflect these changes. "Between the Support Staff and the Suggestions Team, eTap always seems to find the answer, whether they find the ability within the database or create a change in the software in order to accommodate the need," said Marla. "When we encounter something that we can't figure out how to best track within the database, the Support Staff listens to our issue and works to find an option that will produce the desired results. They are very knowledgeable and patient."

Of course, there are times when it is not a matter of navigating the database, sometimes the database is simply not designed to perform a desired function. And that is where the eTapestry Suggestions Team comes in.

"A couple of years ago we wanted to be able to create letters that contained certain combinations of information. We submitted suggestions to the eTap Suggestion Team and they gave the Correspondence section an overhaul that better met our expectations," said Marla. "A year later we wanted to share complete pledge schedules and all related pledge information in our pledge reminder letters, and eTapestry responded with the new Pledge Schedule template. This has saved me hours, if not days, of work. It's easier for me, and my donors like it too."

Most recently Summit Academy contacted eTapestry Suggestions to request a better option for entering upgraded pledges. "eTapestry made it happen and it is wonderful!" exclaimed Marla. "It seems like eTapestry is always getting more and more user friendly. They continue to grow and evolve along with nonprofit organizations needs."

"Sometimes they even make changes before we ask for them, or even think of them. They seem to be in tune with the fundraising world and any new changes that might impact their users," explained Marla.

"An added benefit to eTapestry is their relationship with Benevon. The Next Step component of eTapestry allows us to easily produce reports that assist us in our Benevon workshops. It is marvelous!"

"I can't say enough about eTapestry's willingness to accommodate the needs of their users and the ability for them to do so quickly and effectively. It has definitely been an unexpected and wonderful surprise," said Marla. "I take great comfort in knowing that no matter what needs I may have in the future, eTapestry will be ready and willing to listen."

About eTapestry

eTapestry Selected as One of the Best Places to Work in Indiana

jesslinger — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400

Indianapolis, IN - (June 25, 2008) – eTapestry was recently named to the 2008 list of Best Places to Work in Indiana by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce. At an awards ceremony hosted by the Chamber, eTapestry was recognized as the 17th best work environment in the small-medium company category, an even higher ranking than the 19th place recognition the company received in 2007.

"We are truly honored that eTapestry is once again being recognized as one of the best places to work in Indiana," said Doug Stevens, eTapestry's director of architecture. "I think eTapestry provides a perfect example that a happy employee is a productive employee. The company does a lot to foster a fun atmosphere, but it's the people that make this such a special place."

Rick Radcliff, eTapestry's director of conversion services, added "Ranking number 17 is a tremendous accomplishment, and we'll keep striving higher."

eTapestry strives to provide a good amount of convenience, fun, and feel-good opportunities for its employees. In order to help balance employees' home life and work life, eTapestry provides several convenient amenities, like a full kitchen and full service laundry facilities. They also have shower rooms, which are convenient for those employees who take advantage of the basketball court, gym equipment, and exercise/yoga areas.

The fun at eTapestry is always in full swing due to the dozens of annual events that eTapestry coordinates on an almost weekly basis. Activities like softball, kickball, watermelon seed spitting contests, Quiz Show trivia contests, cookouts, golf outings, Guitar Hero contests, Christmas talent shows, dodgeball...the list goes on and on.

"In addition to having fun, our company events give employees another opportunity to get to know those co-workers they don't interact with daily a little better," added Steve Rusche, co-founder and COO. "Teamwork is really important to our success, and our events help build teamwork."

Another opportunity that sets eTapestry apart from most small companies is its focus on volunteer activities. The founders of eTapestry have always felt strongly about giving back to the community and they make sure that their employees are given every opportunity to do so as well. eTapestry coordinates regular volunteer activities with some of the organizations in Indianapolis and allows employees to take time out of their workdays to lend a hand and give back, whether it is assisting at a food bank for an afternoon, or signing up for one of the blood drives that eTapestry hosts.

The Indiana Chamber announced rankings for all 66 companies that made the Best Places to Work in Indiana list at an awards dinner at the Indiana Roof Ballroom attended by 800 Hoosier businesspeople.

The honorees were determined through employer reports and comprehensive employee surveys, with winners selected in two categories: small to medium-sized companies of between 25 and 249 employees, and large-sized companies consisting of 250 or more employees. Out-of-state parent companies were eligible to participate if at least 25 full-time employees are in Indiana.

For more information, visit www.bestplacestoworkIN.com.

About eTapestry

Media Contacts:

Steve Rusche
eTapestry
steve.rusche@eTapestry.com
317.336.3827(etap) x224

Melanie Milonas
Blackbaud, Inc.
melanie.milonas@blackbaud.com
843.216.6200 x3307

Source: eTapestry

Blackbaud, Inc. Announces Acquisition of Kintera

jesslinger — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 11:45:11 -0400

Charleston, S.C. – May 29, 2008 – Blackbaud, Inc. (NASDAQ: BLKB), the leading provider of software and related services designed specifically for nonprofit organizations, announced today that it is acquiring Kintera, Inc. (NASDAQ: KNTA), a pioneer and leading provider of a Software as a Service (SaaS) solution to the nonprofit and government sectors. Under the terms of the agreement, Blackbaud will pay an all-cash purchase price of approximately $46.0 million. Blackbaud expects to finance the deal with cash and borrowings from its credit facility.

Kintera's principal offering is its online Sphere® technology platform, which is used by such leading organizations as American Lung Association, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, International Fund for Animal Welfare, Lance Armstrong Foundation and Sesame Workshop to manage online fundraising events and in 2007 processed over $400 million in online gifts. The company also offers wealth profiling and screening services as well as an accounting software solution, both similar to offerings of Blackbaud. With approximately 4,000 customers, Kintera is recognized for the proven capabilities of its Sphere® SaaS offering that has allowed nonprofits to effectively grow their base of supporters and expand their online fundraising initiatives. The company reported $44.9 million in total revenue for 2007.

Marc Chardon, Blackbaud's President and Chief Executive Officer, said, "The acquisition of Kintera is very exciting for us and for the nonprofit industry as a whole. Expanding Blackbaud's online offering in this way further establishes Blackbaud as the leading solutions partner for nonprofit organizations. The online solutions of the two companies have historically served different segments of the market and this acquisition gives us the ability to broaden our addressable market with proven and rich online product functionality."

Chardon continued, "Our core capabilities are complementary and we expect to continue to offer a full range of solutions that effectively meet nonprofits' needs for donor acquisition and cultivation that are intergrated with our suite of CRM solutions, including The Raiser's Edge®. Kintera's "Friends Asking Friends®" team fundraising and advocacy solutions are well suited for organizations that use these programs to grow their base of supporters. Similarly, Blackbaud's NetCommunity™ offering is ideally suited for enriching the online experience of current donors enhancing the value of data that already exists in the CRM system."

Chardon added, "We are also pleased to offer new options to Kintera's accounting and wealth data customers. P!N™ has been innovative in coupling traditional wealth screening services with online offerings and we are excited about the potential of combining these offerings with Target Analytics' current product portfolio. Likewise, Fundware® has long met the fund accounting needs of many nonprofits and we expect to work closely with Kintera and their partners to enhance the range of solutions available to this important set of customers. Combining these solutions with Blackbaud’s current offerings will allow us to continue to grow these important segments of our business."

Kintera will continue to be led by its current President and Chief Executive Officer, Richard LaBarbera, a high tech industry veteran with more than 30 years experience working with such leading software providers as Sybase, Siemens/Nixdorf, Storage Technology and IBM. Kintera operations will continue to be directed from their existing offices in San Diego.

LaBarbera said, "Joining with Blackbaud gives us a way to leverage our capabilities with those of the industry leader and thus significantly improve the customer's experience. Importantly, this move also means that nonprofits will be able to choose Kintera solutions confident in the knowledge that they are backed by Blackbaud's robust corporate infrastructure and that the partner they have selected will be there to serve them for many years into the future. Our focus will now turn exclusively to better meeting the needs of our customers and collaborating with Blackbaud to leverage the investment they are making to better serve the nonprofit sector. We are very excited about the potential to offer more compelling solutions that enhance the donor experience and increase nonprofits' abilities to raise more money."

Tim Williams, Blackbaud's Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, stated, "In addition to the strategic reasons supporting the acquisition of Kintera, we believe the acquisition is attractive from a financial perspective as well. Subscription revenue was already the fastest growing source of revenue at Blackbaud and it was expected to become larger than license revenue at some point in the second half of 2008. With the acquisition of Kintera, this will become a certainty as we will add another significant source of subscription-based revenue from an on-demand service offering. The evolution of Blackbaud's business model toward new revenue sources with ratable revenue recognition has been a significant and positive development over the past several years, and it complements the very strong cash flow profile of the company."

Blackbaud's acquisition of Kintera is structured as an all-cash tender offer for all of the shares of Kintera at a price of $1.12 per share. The company is expected to formally launch the tender sometime next week and close on or around July 2.

Conference Call Details:
Blackbaud will host a conference call today, May 29, 2008, at 5:30 p.m. (Eastern Time) to discuss the acquisition. To access this call, dial 888-599-4858 (domestic) or 913-312-0834 (international). A replay of the conference call will be available through June 5, 2008 at 888-203-1112 (domestic) or 719-457-0820 (international). The replay passcode is 2074070. A live webcast of the conference call will be available on the "Investor Relations" page of the company's website, and a replay will be archived there as well.

About Blackbaud
Blackbaud is the leading global provider of software and services designed specifically for nonprofit organizations, enabling them to improve operational efficiency, build strong relationships, and raise more money to support their missions. Approximately 19,000 organizations - including the American Red Cross, Dartmouth College, the WGBH Educational Foundation, Episcopal High School, Lincoln Center, Cancer Research UK, Special Olympics, and Arthritis Foundation - use one or more of Blackbaud products and services for fundraising, constituent relationship management, financial management, direct marketing, school administration, ticketing, business intelligence, website management, prospect research, consulting, and analytics. Since 1981, Blackbaud's sole focus and expertise has been partnering with nonprofits and providing them the solutions they need to make a difference in their local communities and worldwide. Headquartered in the United States, Blackbaud also has operations in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. For more information, visit www.blackbaud.com.

About Kintera
Kintera, Inc. (NASDAQ: KNTA) provides software as a service to help organizations quickly and easily reach more people, raise more money and run more efficiently. The Kintera Sphere® technology platform empowers The Giving Experience™, and features a social constituent relationship management (CRM) system, enabling donor management, e-mail and communications, Web sites, events, advocacy programs, wealth screening and accounting. For more information about Kintera software and services, visit www.kintera.com.

Media Contacts:

Investors:

Tim Dolan
ICR
timothy.dolan@icrinc.com
617.956.6727

Media:

Melanie Milonas
Blackbaud, Inc.
melanie.milonas@blackbaud.com
843.216.6200 x3307

Source: Blackbaud

Forward-looking Statements
Except for historical information, all of the statements, expectations, and assumptions contained in this news release are forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Although Blackbaud attempts to be accurate in making these forward-looking statements, it is possible that future circumstances might differ from the assumptions on which such statements are based. In addition, other important factors that could cause results to differ materially include the following risks related to the expected timing and financial or other benefits of the Kintera acquisition: management of integration of acquired companies and other risks associated with acquisitions; uncertainty regarding increased business and renewals from existing customers; continued success in sales growth; general economic risks; risk associated with successful implementation of multiple integrated software products; the ability to attract and retain key personnel; risks related to our dividend policy and share repurchase program, including potential limitations on our ability to grow and the possibility that we might discontinue payment of dividends; risks relating to restrictions imposed by the credit facility; risks associated with management of growth; lengthy sales and implementation cycles, particularly in larger organizations; technological changes that make our products and services less competitive; and the other risk factors set forth from time to time in the SEC filings for Blackbaud, copies of which are available free of charge at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov
upon request from Blackbaud's investor relations department.

All Blackbaud product names appearing herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of Blackbaud, Inc.

Securities Law Disclosure
The tender offer for the outstanding common stock of Kintera, Inc. has not yet commenced. This press release is for informational purposes only and is not an offer to buy or the solicitation of an offer to sell any securities. The solicitation and the offer to buy shares of Kintera common stock will be made only pursuant to an offer to purchase on Schedule TO and related materials that Blackbaud intends to file with the SEC. Kintera also intends to file a solicitation/recommendation statement on Schedule 14D-9 with respect to the offer. Kintera stockholders and other investors should read these materials carefully when they become available because they will contain important information, including the terms and conditions of the offer. Kintera stockholders and other investors will be able to obtain copies of these materials without charge from the SEC through the SEC's website at www.sec.gov, from Georgeson Inc., the information agent for the offer, toll-free at (866) 328-5439 (banks and brokers call (212) 440-9800), from Blackbaud (with respect to documents filed by Blackbaud with the SEC) by going to the Investor Relations section of Blackbaud's website at www.blackbaud.com, or from Kintera (with respect to documents filed by Kintera with the SEC) by going to the Investor Relation's section of Kintera's website at www.kintera.com. Stockholders and other investors are urged to read those materials carefully prior to making any decisions with respect to the offer.

eTapestry Offers API Module for Free

jesslinger — Fri, 16 May 2008 15:46:22 -0400

Indianapolis, IN. (May 14, 2008) – eTapestry announced today that it will now be offering its Application Programming Interface (API) module free of charge. The eTapestry API provides nonprofit organizations and third-party developers the necessary tools to facilitate an exchange of data between the eTapestry database and other applications.

"We are pleased to provide free access to the API to both customers and the fundraising software development community as a whole," said John Moore, eTapestry's CTO and vice president of development. "Our hope is that by providing a level of transparency and openness, organizations can leverage the data they store in eTapestry in creative and functional ways."

By using the eTapestry API, organizations can build tools with higher functionality than standard ecommerce or registration pages. "The availability of the API to everyone will allow us to reach a broader audience and will enable the solution to be customized to serve an organization's exact needs," said Moore.

The API may also be used as an automated data entry interface, in which data is sent one record at a time through the interface of another database or application into eTapestry. eTapestry's API utilizes Simple Object Access Protocol (SOAP) to push data to, or pull data from an eTapestry database.

eTapestry will continue to offer pre-packaged applications and services that leverage its own API for the most commonly requested fundraising features. By making the API available for free, the company expects to see a whole new set of specialized tools being built to address very specific needs. While the API documentation and sample code is free, organizations or developers that need help with their projects can still choose to partner with eTapestry consultants. The API can be accessed at www.etapestry.com.

About eTapestry
Founded in 1999, Indianapolis-based eTapestry® is the first web-based donor database and communications management system that delivers its software over the Internet, allowing access from desktops, laptops and mobile devices. eTapestry’s website development, ecommerce and advanced email tools give its more than 3,000 customers a fully integrated and maintenance free solution. For more information, visit www.eTapestry.com. eTapestry is a Blackbaud company.

Media Contact:

Steve Rusche
eTapestry
steve.rusche@eTapestry.com
317.336.3827(etap) x224

Melanie Milonas
Blackbaud, Inc.
melanie.milonas@blackbaud.com
843.216.6200 x3307

Source: eTapestry

Forward-looking Statements
Except for historical information, all of the statements, expectations, and assumptions contained in this news release are forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Although Blackbaud attempts to be accurate in making these forward-looking statements, it is possible that future circumstances might differ from the assumptions on which such statements are based. In addition, other important factors that could cause results to differ materially include the following: uncertainty regarding increased business and renewals from existing customers; continued success in sales growth; general economic risks; management of integration of recently acquired companies and other risks associated with acquisitions; risk associated with successful implementation of multiple integrated software products; lengthy sales and implementation cycles, particularly in larger organizations; the ability to attract and retain key personnel; risks related to our dividend policy and share repurchase program, including potential limitations on our ability to grow and the possibility that we might discontinue payment of dividends; risks relating to restrictions imposed by the credit facility; risks associated with management of growth; technological changes that make our products and services less competitive; and the other risk factors set forth from time to time in the SEC filings for Blackbaud, copies of which are available free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or upon request from Blackbaud's investor relations department.

eTapestry Accredited as a CFRE Continuing Education Provider

jesslinger — Wed, 14 May 2008 09:25:16 -0400

Indianapolis, IN. (May 14, 2008) – eTapestry announced today that in addition to the benefits of being able to use its software more efficiently and effectively, participants in the company’s training programs will now be eligible for Certified Fund Raising Executives (CFRE) credit.

Founded in 2001, CFRE International is an independent 501(c)6 organization with a mission of setting standards in philanthropy through a valid and reliable certification process. Through eTapestry's partnership with CFRE, each hour of an authorized eTapestry training program provides participants with one point of CFRE credit.

"I am thrilled that we are now a CFRE Continuing Education Provider, enabling our customers to further their professional development through eTapestry training," said Dorothy McIver, director of eTapestry training. "With this added benefit not only can they improve their skills, but also earn CFRE credits at the same time."

As an additional incentive, users who complete eTapestry's training programs and score 90 percent or higher on the company’s online User Certification Test will receive a $50 credit towards any new eTapestry service with up to $500 per organization. For more information on eTapestry training and the CFRE Credit and Cash program, visit www.etapestry.com/news/training/cfre.

CFRE International offers the only internationally recognized baseline professional credential for philanthropic fundraising executives. As stewards of the public trust, CFRE International certifies fundraising professionals who demonstrate the knowledge, skills and commitment to the highest standards of ethical and professional practice in serving the philanthropic sector.

"By attaining Approved Continuing Education Provider status with CFRE International, eTapestry is demonstrating its commitment to building and supporting the knowledge and skills necessary for effective fundraising," said Morgean Hirt, ACA, CFRE International's president and CEO.

CFRE International fulfills its mission by establishing and administering a voluntary certification process based on current and valid standards that measure competency in the practice of philanthropic fundraising. Becoming a Certified Fund Raising Executive offers improved skills and knowledge, higher credibility, improved career advancement, greater earnings potential, and demonstrates commitment to the fundraising profession. For more information on how to become CFRE certified visit www.cfre.org.

Media Contacts

Steve Rusche
eTapestry
steve.rusche@eTapestry.com
317.336.3827(etap) x224

Melanie Milonas
Blackbaud, Inc.
melanie.milonas@blackbaud.com
843.216.6200 x3307

Source: eTapestry

eTapestry Benchmark Reporting

jesslinger — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 21:43:17 -0400

While nonprofits are not defined by the dollars raised, tools that help them track the success and progress of their fundraising efforts are extremely valuable. But being able to compare themselves with other peer organizations has not been part of the equation. Until now.

eTapestry is pleased to introduce "Benchmark Reporting." For the first time, eTapestry customers can get reports measuring their fundraising activity while also providing comparison to a larger universe of organizations. Based on the aggregate results of participating organizations, you can now see how your efforts and results compare to others. For example, you will have access to the information and the reports that can show you how your average gift compares to other nonprofits of similar type, size, or location. You can compare your quarter to quarter gift volume with the trends of other nonprofits. There is even a report to show how your donor renewal rates compare with other eTapestry customers.

John Moore, Vice President of Development, states "This project is the culmination of an idea that we have wanted to implement for quite some time now. Because of the unique centralized hosting nature of the eTapestry Saas (Software as a Service) application, we are able to easily provide meaningful fundraising performance comparison metrics to the eTapestry customer base. All our clients have to do is opt in to the Benchmark Reporting survey and then click a button to get their reports."

Four new Benchmark Reports provide hundreds of data points that let you focus on the key comparisons and measures to help you analyze and strategize your fundraising efforts, enabling you to raise more money! To learn more about this innovative new tool, click here.

If you are a current eTapestry customer - you have the opportunity to get this incredible new module at remarkable savings. But it is only for a limited time. Contact your Account Executive for details - or simply email us at info@etapestry.com.

Nonprofit eases workload and triples registration through eTapestry

jesslinger — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 21:23:49 -0400

With 9 established fundraising and volunteer programs to coordinate, the staff at Senior Resources in Columbia, SC needed a software solution that would offer convenience as well as features to facilitate their potential growth. When Annie Eveleigh, Director of Development for Senior Resources, started 7 years ago she discovered that they were using several different databases to store and track their information. Annie knew that converting everything into one centralized database was the only way information could be streamlined for efficient tracking and reporting purposes.

While Annie was familiar with other database programs she had utilized at previous jobs, she wanted to see what was currently available for a non-profit of their size. As an AFP (Association of Fundraising Professionals) Chamberlain Scholar, Annie attended the AFP International Conference where she saw a presentation on eTapestry. She was immediately interested in the web-based program and met with Jay Love, Founder and CEO of eTapestry, to discuss some of the options eTapestry had to offer. The convenience of a web-based product and the affordable maintenance fees sold Annie and the rest of the Senior Resources staff. Five years later Annie says that they "couldn't be happier about their decision to go with eTapestry."

In addition to the convenience of the product, Annie has been very pleased with the Advanced Email feature and the Online Giving options.

"After we looked at the return on investment and how we could maximize our resources, we began to focus on the features of eTapestry we could better utilize" said Annie. "We send out quarterly newsletters to over 5,000 constituents, so when we looked at trimming the development office budget, one of the ways I suggested was sending e-newsletters 2 of the 4 times. We also stopped sending mailed announcements of special events - we send all those invites via email now to folks who participated in previous years and folks who expressed an interest in the event."

Annie states that the Online Giving page has been "just wonderful". For almost 38 years, donors gave to Senior Resources the old fashion way - by check in the mail - so she anticipated a tough sell to get them to move to online.

Senior Resources started with an online donation page for their "The Gift that Gives Again" holiday card campaign in late 2006. They were so pleased with the results that they added another online donation page for their "March for Meals" fundraiser in the spring of 2007. "We began promoting the online donation option in email blasts, e-newsletters, brochures and on our website," said Annie.

Needless to say, the results were amazing! "Since the incorporation of the online donation pages the registrations for our 'March for Meals 5K at Riverbanks' have tripled!", Annie added.

Senior Resources could not be happier with the impact that the online donation capability has had on their donations. They are also very pleased that the rise in volume of donations has not created a heavier workload because the online donations flow seamlessly into their fully integrated eTapestry database with no additional data entry needed.

"We've offered an online donation option with our holiday card campaign "The Gift that Gives Again" the past 2 years," stated Annie. "Since this is an established campaign and many people are accustomed to giving through mail donations, the biggest benefit from that option is that it makes our data entry time less stressful. The holiday card campaign can have as many as 1,000 entries in a short period of time, so you can imagine how much it helps if they are done online! We wish everyone would register or donate online...maybe, some day."

About Senior Resources
Senior Resources is a non-profit organization that provides coordinated services, resources and personal choices to promote healthy, independent living through the support of staff and volunteers. Since 1967 Senior Resources has provided a variety of choices to Columbia area seniors & families by offering established programs for home care, transportation, senior volunteers, meal delivery and much, much more. Senior Resources currently touches over 2,000 lives each day in the Midlands of SC through their 9 programs. For more information on Senior Resources please visit www.seniorresourcesinc.org.

About eTapestry
Since its release as the first web-based fundraising software for nonprofits in 1999, eTapestry has grown to a leadership position with over 5000 nonprofit customers worldwide. eTapestry provides On-Demand fundraising solutions, including a donor database, website development, ecommerce, and advanced email. To learn more, visit us at www.etapestry.com, or call us at 888-739-3827. eTapestry is a Blackbaud Company.