Nonprofit startup Series
Learn foundational skills and gain knowledge necessary to launch and sustain successful organizations.
Nonprofit Startup Training: Launch and Grow Your Nonprofit
Spring 2025 Series: March 13, 20, 27 and April 3 (Thursdays)
Four evening sessions, 5pm – 8pm (PST). Via Zoom.
Register by February 14 for an Early Bird Savings of $150!
The Nonprofit Startup course is designed to equip aspiring and current nonprofit leaders with the foundational skills and knowledge necessary to launch and sustain successful organizations. Over four weeks, participants will explore critical components of nonprofit management, from legal considerations to strategic planning, board governance, fundraising, and operational effectiveness.
Upon completion of this course, participants will:
- Understand the foundational elements necessary for starting and running a nonprofit.
- Develop strategic plans that clearly articulate their organization’s vision and objectives.
- Assess and implement effective board governance practices.
- Create and manage robust fundraising plans and budgets.
- Navigate the complexities of nonprofit management and operations.
- Apply marketing principles to effectively promote their mission and engage stakeholders.
This course is ideal for individuals looking to enhance their leadership capabilities in the nonprofit sector, whether they are starting a new organization or seeking to strengthen an existing one. Join us to transform your vision into action and drive meaningful change in your community!
CVNL is excited to partner with MissionQuest, Inc. a leader in nonprofit consulting and training, to bring you this comprehensive program designed to help you build your Nonprofit.
Mission Quest brings decades of experience helping nonprofits maximize their effectiveness. Their expertise in program development and stakeholder engagement will give you practical, real-world insights you can apply immediately. With their guidance, you’ll gain the tools to address pressing community needs while building stronger, more impactful programs.
CVNL is pleased to offer partial scholarships to Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and under-represented individuals who are nonprofit staff or volunteers serving 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. For more information on scholarships, please complete the online request form or contact us at learning@cvnl.org
Program Details
- Early Bird Tuition (register by 2/14/2025): $645 for CVNL members, $745 for non-members.
- Regular Tuition (register by 3/12/25): $795 for CVNL members, $895 for non-members. Register by 3/13/2025.
- Discounts: 10% discount for groups of 3 or organizations with budget size under $750K.
- Tuition includes: All materials, including handouts and additional web resources.
- Limited to 20 participants.
Schedule
Building Blocks of a Nonprofit
Participants will gain proficiency in the essential characteristics of nonprofits, including the processes for incorporation, acquiring tax-exempt status, and engaging fiscal sponsors. The week will focus on crafting strategic plans, emphasizing vision and mission statements, goal setting, and resource assessment.
Boards and Budgets
This week will cover the qualities of effective boards, including their duties, policies, and recruitment strategies. Participants will learn to conduct productive board meetings and recognize the importance of committees. Additionally, the course will address nonprofit budgeting, covering types, components, and the creation of a comprehensive budget that aligns with organizational goals.
Branding, Fundraising, and Financial Essentials
Participants will explore nonprofit branding and marketing strategies, identify target audiences, and create impactful promotions. They will develop fundraising plans, engage donors, navigate grants, and ensure legal compliance. The week also covers essential financial management skills, including bookkeeping, tracking income and expenses, and creating basic reports.
Management, Operations, and Launch Preparation
This week covers key management essentials such as hiring leadership, managing staff and volunteers, and understanding employment classifications. Guest speakers will share real-world insights, and participants will refine their startup plans through collaborative feedback, preparing for a successful launch.
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.
If you have any questions about CVNL Learning and Leadership opportunities, contact:
learning@cvnl.org