Project · Board Development & Governance
Board fundraising for nonprofits
Part of our board development & governance support. Work on it with a coach, practitioner or cohort — and keep the result.
No credit card required · you own & control your data
You’ll walk away with
Board fundraising expectations
Individual board member plans
Training session for the full board
- Typical length
- 6–10 weeks to set expectations and plans; results build over the year
- Who’s involved
- Board chair and executive director (ED) for planning, plus one 90-minute training for the full board and a short check-in with each member
Overview
What is a board fundraising project?
Board fundraising gives each board member a clear, personal role in raising money, matched to what they’re comfortable doing. When it’s done, the board has a written give-and-get expectation, every member has a short plan, and the ED is no longer the only person asking.
Steps
How does a board fundraising project usually run?
01
Set the expectation
Agree as a board on a giving and fundraising expectation that fits your community.
02
Train together
Run a hands-on session where members practice telling your story and making a simple ask.
03
Make it personal
Help each member choose two or three actions, such as hosting, thank-you calls or introductions.
04
Keep it on the agenda
Review progress at every board meeting so plans don’t fade.
Signs you need this
When does a nonprofit need a board fundraising project?
The most common sign a nonprofit needs a board fundraising project is “Your board shows up but doesn’t help raise money.” — here are the others to look for.
- Your board shows up but doesn’t help raise money.
- Board members don’t know how to ask.
- There’s no clear give/get expectation.
Delivery
How does Resilia deliver a board fundraising project?
Coaching plus board training: a coach works with the board chair and ED and leads the board session. Most boards use about 4–6 coaching and training sessions.
4–6 sessions: about $800–$3,000 — or free to you if your funder sponsors it.
Example
What does a finished board fundraising look like?
For example, a 12-member arts board might adopt a policy of personal giving by every member plus three fundraising actions each per year. One member might take on thank-you calls, another a house party, and a third introductions to two local businesses.
Pitfalls
What are common mistakes to avoid?
- Setting one dollar amount for everyone, which can shut out members with fewer resources.
- Training the board once and never checking in again.
- Asking members to fundraise before they can explain what the organization does.
Related
What is a board fundraising project often paired with?
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Should every board member give?
Most funders expect 100% board giving at a level meaningful to each member. Fundraising roles can also include introductions, thank-you calls and hosting.
How long does a board fundraising project take?
Typically 6–10 weeks to set expectations and plans; results build over the year. Board chair and ED for planning, plus one 90-minute training for the full board and a short check-in with each member.
How much does a board fundraising project cost?
4–6 sessions: about $800–$3,000 — or free to you if your funder sponsors it.
Who does the work on a board fundraising project?
Board training sessions plus coaching for the board chair and ED.
Can we start a board fundraising project for free?
Yes. Start self-service for free in your workspace, then add a coach, practitioner or cohort when you’re ready — or ask your funder to sponsor it.
Can our funder pay for this?
Often, yes. Here’s how to ask.
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