Let’s face it: asking board members to help with fundraising can feel as awkward as teaching your parents how to use TikTok. But it doesn’t have to be! With the right mix of clarity, support, and a dash of good humor, you can turn even the most hesitant board member into a fundraising champion.
A board’s role in fundraising is critical because it sets the tone, drives the strategy, and shows everyone else how it’s done. Board members bring credibility, connections, and leadership that no staff member or volunteer can fully replicate.
Board members often have networks that staff can only dream of. They’re the LinkedIn Premium of your nonprofit world – unlocking doors to corporate sponsors, high-net-worth individuals, and community influencers. Think of them as your nonprofit’s hype team – but in business attire and without pom-poms.
A board deeply involved in fundraising ensures that everyone – donors, volunteers, and staff – remains laser-focused on the mission. It’s a board member's job to inspire, rally and make sure the nonprofit's vision stays in the spotlight. Plus who doesn’t love hearing a heartfelt, “This is why I serve on this board” speech at a gala?
Here’s how to set fundraising expectations with your board in a way that feels approachable, fun, and downright doable.
1. Start with the “Why” (and Maybe Snacks)
Your board members joined because they love what your nonprofit stands for. Start every conversation about fundraising by connecting it to your mission. Whether it’s feeding families, saving puppies, or planting trees, remind them of the impact their efforts make.
Pro Tip: Add snacks or coffee to the mix. People are 87%* more likely to agree with you when there are brownies on the table. (*Not scientifically proven, but worth a shot.)
2. Define What Fundraising Actually MeansLet’s demystify fundraising. Your board members might think it’s all cold calls and begging, but it’s so much more (and way less daunting). Be clear about what’s expected: personal donations, connecting with networks, and supporting events. “Fundraising” does not mean doing it all—it’s about finding the role that fits them best and contributes to the bigger picture.
And be sure to show the board how their involvement fits into the overall goal. Break it down so they can see their piece of the pie (and who doesn’t love pie?).
3. Offer Training (AKA Make Them Feel Like Pros)Not everyone is a natural fundraiser, but everyone can learn! Equip your board with resources like sample emails, conversation tips, donor talking points, or even modeling a donor conversation by taking them along for a visit. Confidence comes with preparation! And don’t forget to teach them the magic phrase: “Let me connect you to our fundraising team.”
Model the behavior you wish to see as a part of their training! Before sending them out to connect with donors, be sure board members have made their own personal gift first. Personal giving is a big deal. Be sure you are treating your board members the way you want them to treat other donors through cultivation, inviting them to give, and stewardship.
4. Celebrate Efforts and WinsRecognize every contribution, big or small. Celebrate milestones, thank board members often, and make success fun. Gratitude fuels engagement, and celebrations keep the energy high. So, whether it’s a heart-felt thank you note or a surprise cupcake delivery, showing gratitude keeps the good vibes flowing.
Pro Tip: Don’t just celebrate the money raised. Celebrate the effort. Even if Bob’s cocktail party fundraiser only brought in three people, those are three new connections worth celebrating!
5. Be Flexible and Lean Into Strengths
Fundraising isn’t one-size-fits-all. Let board members play to their strengths—whether it’s asking directly, hosting events, or making introductions. When people feel empowered to contribute in their own way, they’re more likely to step up. If you’ve got a board member with a legendary social media following, ask them to make a few introductions. And if another board member has epic dad jokes, maybe they are the right person to emcee your next event!
Genuinely get to know your board members and understand why they are connected to your mission and what drives them every day. Work with them to find their perfect fundraising fit.
The Bottom Line
Getting your board on board (see what I did there?) with fundraising does not have to feel like pulling teeth. By making the process clear, fun, and connected to their passion for your mission, you can create a team of enthusiastic fundraisers who are ready to champion your cause.
Keep fundraising at the top of mind and get your board active in delivering outcomes. Show progress at every meeting and celebrate the contributions they are making to the effort and to the results. Using a little peer pressure (in a friendly way) between board members can spur some off the sidelines, while driving your active champions even more.
Remind your board members that they have the power to multiply the impact of your organization by the connections they bring. How they show up for your organization every day – not just during board meetings – lays the groundwork for future giving. Every conversation can be a fundraising conversation, even if you are not asking for a gift. Encourage them to share the story of your organization everywhere they go and connect people to your cause.
So go forth, nonprofit leaders, and turn your board into fundraising rock stars. And remember: brownies help. Always.
Nonprofit boards play a vital role in driving an organization’s mission forward, providing leadership, oversight, and support. This month, our blogs will focus on practical tips and strategies to help your board excel. Together, we can strengthen the foundation of your nonprofit’s success.