Before asking nonprofit board members to become more involved in fundraising, it's worth asking a different question: Have we created the conditions that make meaningful participation possible?
Many nonprofits want more active boards. They hope members will make introductions, strengthen community relationships, participate in donor stewardship, and support fundraising priorities.
But enthusiasm alone isn't enough. Board members need clear expectations, adequate information, thoughtful staff coordination, and meaningful opportunities to contribute.
This assessment helps nonprofit leaders identify whether those foundations are in place.
The 10-Question Board Fundraising Readiness Assessment
For each statement, select Yes, Partially, or Not Yet.
1. Our board understands how fundraising supports our mission.
Members have a working understanding of the organization's funding model, philanthropic priorities, and financial needs.
2. Fundraising expectations are clearly communicated.
Responsibilities are discussed during recruitment, reinforced during orientation, and revisited throughout board service.
3. Board members understand that fundraising involves more than solicitation.
Members recognize the value of stewardship, introductions, listening, advocacy, and relationship building.
4. We understand our board members' individual strengths.
Leadership knows which members enjoy connecting people, communicating the mission, thanking supporters, or contributing other relevant expertise.
5. Staff can identify appropriate opportunities for board participation.
There is a process for determining where board involvement would support organizational priorities.
6. Board members have access to the information they need.
Members can find current mission information, relevant talking points, basic fundraising guidance, and an appropriate staff contact.
7. Donor relationships are coordinated appropriately.
There are clear expectations regarding donor confidentiality, outreach, solicitation authority, and recording relevant interactions.
8. Learning and development are ongoing.
Fundraising education extends beyond an occasional retreat or annual orientation.
9. We have a way to recognize meaningful participation.
The organization values introductions, stewardship, learning, and follow-through—not only financial results.
10. We have a sustainable way to coordinate and review engagement.
Staff can identify responsibilities, follow up appropriately, and understand whether participation is improving.
Interpret Your Results
Count how many statements received each response.
Mostly Yes: Your organization has many of the conditions needed for consistent board fundraising participation. Focus on improving the areas where support is still needed.
Mostly Partially: You have a foundation to build upon, but inconsistent practices may be limiting engagement. Choose two or three organizational improvements.
Mostly Not Yet: Begin with expectations, leadership alignment, and staff coordination before introducing significant new fundraising responsibilities.
These categories are intended for organizational reflection, not as validated benchmarks.
Three Questions for Your Leadership Team
After completing the assessment, discuss:
Which of our current practices most effectively support board participation?
Where are we expecting board members to contribute without giving them sufficient guidance or support?
What is one change we can implement in the next 30 days?
The objective isn't to achieve ten perfect answers. It's to identify what will make board participation more productive and sustainable.
How BoardSpring Helps
BoardSpring helps nonprofits move from fundraising readiness to practical participation.
Through manageable monthly activities, fundraising education, suggested guidance, and staff coordination tools, BoardSpring provides a structured way for board members to contribute.
Readiness creates the conditions for engagement. Consistent action puts those conditions to work.
Learn more at www.boardspringgroup.com.
