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Building a Fundraising Board

Fundraising isn’t about money; it’s about PEOPLE. And some of your most powerful people? Your board.

In this episode, we dive into the challenges small nonprofits face when trying to activate their boards around fundraising. From fear of asking to a total misunderstanding of what fundraising even is, we’re breaking down the myths, sharing real-world tactics, and giving you the mindset shifts that actually work.

📌 Don’t forget: We’ve included a Board Fundraising Menu in the show notes with a full list of task ideas you can assign based on your org’s real needs. Plus, we’re also sharing a companion script guide to help your board get even more confident and consistent in their outreach.

🔑 Getting Your Board to Fundraise - 5 Key Takeaways

Fundraising ≠ Begging
The fear that fundraising is "icky" or akin to begging is one of the biggest blockers. Reframing it as an invitation into community shifts everything.
Boards Don't Understand Fundraising—Because No One Taught Them
Most board members have never been trained. They’re not unmotivated—they’re just unclear on what fundraising actually involves.
Matchmaking, Not Sales
Great fundraising is about alignment, not persuasion. If the mission and the person don’t align, that’s okay—you’re just finding the right match.
Board Members' Personal Stories Are Their Superpower
A board member sharing why they care hits harder than any brochure. Storytelling > strategy.
Accountability = Clarity + Relationship
Board engagement skyrockets when expectations are clear, roles are specific, and there's a personal connection—like pairing with a staff member.

🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, productivity & tools, and donor engagement strategies that work. We're here to eliminate nonprofit burnout and boost your donations!

✅ 3 Actionable Tips for Small Nonprofits

Assign by Name, Not Role
“The board” doesn’t do anything. Sam, Deirdre, and James do. Assign clear names to tasks and follow up. It makes a BIG difference.
Use the 1-30-10-7 Pitch Practice
Have board members practice describing the org in 1 minute, 30 seconds, 10 seconds, and finally 7 seconds. That short pitch becomes their go-to confidence builder.
Build In Buddy Accountability
Pair each board member with a development staffer. It keeps them engaged, informed, and supported and stops them from sending those “should we ask Oprah?” emails to your ED.

Resources and Links

Connect with our host, Maria Rio
Connect with our cohost, Caitlin McBride
Support our show. We are fully self-funded!
Board fundraising menu
Board fundraising scripts
Watch this episode on YouTube

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