Bill TeDesco is a seasoned entrepreneur who has served as the founder and CEO of DonorSearch for over 16 years. He was also previously WealthEngine’s CEO and a minority owner before founding DonorSearch, which he grew from 2000 to 2007. Prior to that, from 1996 to 2000, he served as Executive Vice President at Target America,  an early prospect research company that was ultimately purchased by Blackbaud and folded into Target Analytics. Each of these start-ups became associated with ongoing innovation and, collectively, the source of strategic fundraising technology for thousands of nonprofits under Bill’s leadership.

Throughout his career, Bill has been an effective leader and motivator, with a proven track record of success in both the private and nonprofit sectors. Additionally, he is a strategic thinker who is constantly seeking out new approaches to increase efficacy and efficiency.  Bill’s nonprofit positions included Director of Development for the Fund for Educational Excellence, Baltimore’s public education fund, and a Major Gift Officer at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. He is a strong advocate for the use of data and technology in the nonprofit sector and is extremely passionate about helping nonprofits achieve their goals. Bill holds degrees from Pennsylvania State University, a BS in Landscape Architecture and a Masters of Public Administration.  From 2009 to 2011, Bill was also a director and president of APRA-Maryland. 

Favorite nonprofit: Maryland FoodBank

Favorite quote: “We make our own luck when we are prepared for the opportunities we want.”