This live-interactive six-part primer will help new nonprofit leaders learn the basics of what it takes to operate, sustain and grow a nonprofit organization. Based on Maryland Nonprofits’ best practices model, the Standards for Excellence. Topics covered include planning for impact, program evaluation basics, fundraising readiness, resource development planning, basic budgeting, risk management, human resource policies, the role of the board of directors, financial oversight, budgeting, fundraising regulations, and advocacy best practices for nonprofits.
Those who attend all six sessions and complete the homework, will have all the requirements in place to apply for our Standards Basics Recognition, by the end of this course. If you apply for Standards Basics recognition and are successful, the cost of your application and first year’s license fee will be covered by this program (members-only).
Each organization may bring 2 people to the training. This is a live class. Recordings will not be shared.
Participants in the Nonprofit Basics Series will receive:
A comprehensive self-assessment of your organization’s governance, management and operation
- 20 hours training covering a topic essential to effective nonprofit governance or management
- Dedicated time for reflection and planning on your organization’s programs and strategy
- A proven framework for policy and procedure to formalize practices, including tools, customizable templates, and sample policies
- Opportunities to learn from other leaders of small, young nonprofit organizations
- Homework assignments that if completed, will move you closer to achieving the Standards for Excellence Basics recognition
Deepen your learning with additional resources:
- A 30-day progress check with opportunities for additional technical assistance or coaching
- A 60-day NP Basics “virtual meet-up”
- Continue the conversation or share resources in the NDC online-community.
Session 1: Mission and Program Outcomes
Donors, grantmakers, and government agencies recognize the importance of a defined mission and clear program outcomes in determine whether to fund an organization. This session will help you align your mission statement, program, activities, and outcomes and move you closer to becoming “grant ready.”
Trainers:
- Amy Coates Madsen
- Angineeki Jones
Session 2: Financial Management and Fundraising Essentials
Learn about budgeting basics, financial oversight, managing organizational risk. Review the variety sources of nonprofit income and receive a framework for creating a resource development plan that suits their organization. Leave with a better understanding of how to raise money for general operating support and ideas for growing your donor pool.
Trainers:
- Ariel Goldin
- Michelle Nusum Smith
Session 3: Leadership, Board of Directors
This session covers the policies and practices your board should have in place and follow to ensure strong board governance, the many roles a board member may play and how the distinction between governance and management effects how the board and board members work with the Executive Director and staff.
Trainer:
- Kate Scherr-Adams
Session 4: Leadership: Employees & Volunteers
Session 3 covers the role of the executive and important policies and practices related to recruiting, hiring and recognizing staff and volunteers.
Trainer:
- Keiren Havens
Session 5: Fundraising Regulations and Compliance
In Nonprofit Basics Session 5, you will get a deep dive into the laws and regulations that govern all kinds of fundraising.
Trainers:
- Amy Coates Madsen
- Ron Barrett
Session 6: Public Policy Advocacy and Public Affairs
Nonprofits should represent the interests of the people they serve through public education and public policy advocacy. This session discusses engaging the public, advancing the mission through public policy and advocacy, and how nonprofits can engage in lobbying and rules concerning political activities.
Trainers:
- Amy Coates Madsen
Date and Time:
- Session 1: Mission and program –September 24, 2026, 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM
- Session 2: Financial Management & Fundraising – October 7, 2026, 9:30 AM – 2:45 PM
- Session 3: Leadership-Board of Directors –October 15, 2026, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
- Session 4: Leadership – Employees and Volunteers – October 29, 2026, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
- Session 5: Fundraising Regulations and Compliance – November 10, 2026, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
- Session 6: Public Policy Advocacy and Public Affairs – December 3, 2026, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Location:
Virtual
Ticket Pricing:
Member Ticket: $379
Nonprofit Development Center Ticket: FREE
Non-Member Ticket: $679
Pricing includes two registrants per-ticket.
Experiencing Issues While Registering? Please contact our office at 410-727-6367.
Get Tickets Now
Event Cancellation
If you are no longer able to attend this event, please notify us at learning@mdnonprofit.org.
Zoom closed captioning is provided in these virtual workshops. Please contact learning@mdnonprofit.org if you require additional accommodation.
