Your Board’s Untapped Power: Why Fundraising Starts with Them
When it comes to nonprofit fundraising, your board holds the potential to be a team of all-stars. A nonprofit board is more than just a governing body—it’s a powerhouse of ambassadors, champions, and fundraisers. However, inspiring board members to embrace their role in fundraising often requires the right approach.
The good news is that you can empower your board to become fundraising all-stars with clear strategies, intentional communication, and a little inspiration.
FUNDRAISING IS MORE THAN ASKING FOR MONEY
For many board members, the word “fundraising” feels daunting because they equate it with making direct asks. But fundraising is about so much more than that! It’s about building relationships, sharing your mission, and connecting people to a cause they care about.
Educate your board on the full spectrum of fundraising activities:
+ Hosting events
+ Writing thank-you notes to donors
+ Sharing your nonprofit’s posts on social media
+ Inviting their network to learn about your cause
By breaking the process into manageable, meaningful actions, board members will see how they can contribute without stepping outside of their comfort zones.
EQUIP YOUR BOARD WITH THE RIGHT TOOLS
Board members want to help, but sometimes don’t know the best way. Your role is to make it easy for them to succeed by providing the tools and resources they need. Consider creating a Board Fundraising Toolkit that includes:
+ Elevator pitches about your mission
+ Impact stories and key statistics
+ Templates for emails, social media posts, or handwritten notes
+ FAQs about your nonprofit for conversations with potential donors
When your board feels confident and prepared, they’re more likely to dive in and take action.
FOSTER A SPIRIT OF COLLABORATION
Fundraising is a team sport. Encourage your board members to work together and support one another in their efforts. Some ways to do this include:
+ Hosting peer-to-peer fundraising challenges where board members rally their networks for donations.
+ Pairing less-experienced members with seasoned fundraisers for mentorship and support.
+ Celebrating collective achievements, like meeting fundraising milestones, at board meetings or events.
When your board operates as a unified team, the energy and enthusiasm for fundraising will naturally grow.
START WITH SKIN IN THE GAME
For board members to confidently invite others to support your mission, they need to be personally invested in it. Financial giving is a key part of that investment.
It’s not about the dollar amount—it’s about commitment. When every board member gives, it demonstrates unity, leadership, and belief in the work you’re doing. Donors take notice when the people closest to the mission are also supporting it financially.
Encourage 100% participation as a best practice and a shared standard. After all, fundraising is a team effort—and every great team starts by showing up for each other.
ENGAGE. EQUIP. INSPIRE.
Engaging your board in fundraising is a team effort. It requires clear communication, ongoing support, and a shared vision for your mission’s impact. When board members feel equipped and inspired, they’ll transform into passionate advocates who not only raise funds but also amplify your nonprofit’s message in powerful ways.
So, gather your team, arm them with the right tools, and watch as they step up to the fundraising plate. Together, you’ll drive your mission forward—and score big for the community you serve.
Need help empowering your board? Let’s connect and make it happen—together.