Expecting Your Board to Fundraise? How Are You Supporting Them?
Nonprofits bring in consultants, coaches, and advisors all the time — to strengthen operations, build fundraising capacity, or develop strategic plans. We invest in professional development for staff and leadership teams because we understand that growth takes structure, support, and skill-building.
But when it comes to our boards — the very people charged with helping us achieve our missions, secure resources, and drive sustainability — are we truly setting them up for success?
In my experience, not often enough, and not in the right ways.
We spend a lot of time discussing what we wish our boards would do: open doors, make introductions, give personally, or help close gifts. But we rarely give them the same level of coaching, mentoring, and practical support that we give our internal teams.
Fundraising professionals live and breathe this work every day. Our board members don’t — and that’s okay. They bring networks, credibility, and passion, but they may not feel confident or equipped to fundraise effectively. And while we may hand them talking points or assign thank-you calls, that’s not the same as real coaching.
Imagine if we approached board fundraising readiness like we approach staff development. What if we provided one-on-one and small-group coaching to help them:
Overcome fears around “the ask”
Ask the questions they might not feel comfortable asking staff — about what works, what doesn’t, or how to make the biggest difference
Identify authentic ways to open doors
Speak comfortably about impact and outcomes
Become confident ambassadors for your mission
Supporting your board through intentional coaching isn’t just about short-term results — it’s about long-term sustainability and partnership.
If you’re looking to help your board or development committee grow into stronger fundraising partners, let’s talk. Coaching your board is one of the most meaningful investments you can make in your organization’s success — and I can help.
#NonprofitLeadership #BoardDevelopment #FundraisingStrategy #NonprofitGrowth #BoardEngagement #Philanthropy #PurposefulLeadership #SocialImpact #NonprofitConsulting #CapacityBuilding #BoardFundraising #PurposefulConsultingGroup