Board Governance Bootcamp
Empowering Nonprofit Boards for Greater Impact
Unlock the full potential of your nonprofit board through targeted training and strategic development.
SPRING 2026: Tuesdays, April 28, May 5, 12, and 19 (via Zoom)
Experience level:
Beginner - Intermediate.
Strong, well-equipped boards are the backbone of thriving nonprofits. Board members bring expertise, networks, and passion — but many lack formal training in governance or fundraising. At CVNL, we believe in unlocking the full potential of every board through targeted training and strategic development.
This comprehensive four-part training series is designed to strengthen nonprofit boards by providing essential governance knowledge, proven best practices, and practical leadership skills. Across four focused sessions, participants will gain a deeper understanding of board roles and responsibilities, learn how to build effective structures and processes, and develop strategies for long-term success and impact.
Cancellation policy: If plans change and you are no longer able to attend, we will transfer your enrollment and payment to the next program cycle. Funds must be applied and used within a 6 (six) month period. We do not offer refunds.
Schedule:
Day 1 | April 28 | 9 am - 12 pm | Fundamentals of Effective Governance
The program begins with Fundamentals of Effective Governance, establishing a strong foundation in nonprofit governance, clarifying the distinct roles of individual board members and the collective board, and exploring the difference between operational and governance decisions. Participants will learn how to apply practices that enhance board structure, clarify roles, build strong team dynamics, and ensure continuity.
Day 2 | May 5 | 9 am - 12 pm | Structure, Committees & Assessment
The second session, Structure, Committees & Assessment, provides tools to prevent common board dysfunctions such as unproductive meetings or lack of strategic focus. Topics include understanding committee and advisory team structures, running effective board meetings, and using board and chief executive assessments to improve performance.
Day 3 | May 12 | 9 am - 12 pm | Strategic Board Development
In Strategic Board Development, participants will explore how to “get the right people around the table” by assessing board composition and leadership needs, recruiting and orienting new members, providing ongoing training and development, and using key metrics and dashboards to evaluate board performance.
Day 4 | May 19 | 9 am - 12 pm | Boards and Fundraising
Finally, Boards and Fundraising tackles one of the most critical yet often challenging aspects of board service. This session demystifies fundraising, addressing common myths, exploring best practices, and guiding board and staff members in working together to achieve fundraising goals. Through interactive activities and role-play scenarios, participants gain actionable skills, tailored guidance, and a resource workbook to support continued success.
Program Details:
- Spring 2026: April 28, May 5, 12, & 19. Four half-day sessions via Zoom.
- CVNL Member tuition: $336.
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Non-member tuition: $420.
- Class Size: Limited to 30 participants to ensure personalized attention and meaningful discussions.
- Scholarships available for first-generation or new nonprofit professionals serving Marin, Napa, Sonoma, and Solano counties.
Our Faculty
Our faculty members are experienced and working professionals, who combine strong theoretical frameworks and real-life industry knowledge.
Who Should Attend?
This series is ideal for current and prospective nonprofit board members, board chairs, committee leaders, and executive directors/CEOs who want to strengthen board governance, build effective structures, and enhance fundraising and leadership skills.
Tuition & Scholarships
CVNL is pleased to offer partial scholarships to support first-generation professionals and professionals entering the nonprofit sector for the first time in Marin, Napa, Sonoma, and Solano Counties.
These scholarships are made available by generous grants from the Peter A., and Vernice H. Gasser Foundation, the Community Foundation of Sonoma County, the Solano Community Foundation, Marin Community Foundation, and U.S. Bank. To apply, click here, or for more information, please contact us at learning@cvnl.org.
SPONSORED IN PART BY:
