Nonprofit Startup
Date: February 6, 20, March 6, 20, and April 3 (Thursdays)
Time: 9 am - 12 pm PST

Course Description: 

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 five weeks, participants will explore critical components of nonprofit management, from legal considerations to strategic planning, board governance, fundraising, and operational effectiveness.

Course Structure:

Week 1: 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.

Week 2: 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.

Week 3: Fundraising and Finance Essentials Participants will develop comprehensive fundraising plans, engage prospective donors, and navigate grant processes while ensuring compliance with fundraising laws. The week will also introduce essential financial management skills, including bookkeeping, tracking income and expenses, and creating basic financial reports.

Week 4: Management and Operations Essentials This week focuses on key management aspects, including hiring executive leadership, managing staff and volunteers, and understanding employment classifications. Insights from guest speakers will provide real-world perspectives on effective nonprofit management.

Week 5: From Preparation to Launch Participants will delve into marketing and branding strategies tailored for nonprofits, identifying target audiences and creating impactful promotional strategies. The week culminates in presentations where participants refine their startup plans through collaborative feedback.

Learning Outcomes:

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.

Discount:

• 10% discount for groups of 3 of more registering from the same organization, OR
• 10% discount for organizations with budget size < $750K, OR
• 20% early bird discount (Early Bird Deadline: Feb 4; Early Bird discounted rate automatically applied at checkout)

BIPOC Scholarship:
BIPOC scholarship is available for BIPOC participants of nonprofit organizations. Priorities are given to CVNL members.  Scholarship recipients do not have to be from a CVNL member organization. Please complete the BIPOC Scholarship Request Form.

Please email learning@cvnl.org for a discount code on groups or small budget organizations BEFORE you register for the program.

NOTE: In order for participants to earn certificates and eBadges for this program, they must attend at least 80% of the sessions. Participant may only miss one session and still earn the certificate and eBadge. 

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.