How to Get Your Board Members to Support Fundraising

One of the biggest challenges nonprofit leaders face is getting their board members to actually support fundraising. And it’s not always because they don’t want to, it’s usually because of how things started or how expectations were set.

Let’s look at some of the common reasons board members don’t step up:

1. You recruited friends and family
Many founders start out by bringing in friends and family as board members. The problem is, you can’t hold them accountable in the same way you could with people outside of your inner circle. They often feel like they’ve done you a favor just by joining, so stepping up with responsibility doesn’t always happen.

2. They see the role as a title, not a responsibility
Too many board members view being on a board as just a badge of honor. They love the title, but not the responsibility that comes with it. For them to support fundraising, that mindset has to shift.

3. They’re given unrealistic fundraising targets
Some organizations treat board members like sales reps, assigning them yearly fundraising quotas. I believe that approach is wrong. It puts unnecessary pressure on people who aren’t professional fundraisers and doesn’t lead to sustainable results.

4. They don’t know how to help
Board members aren’t usually trained fundraisers. Without clear guidance, they simply don’t know how to contribute.

5. They haven’t been equipped
Even when they want to help, many boards lack the scripts, tools, and resources to confidently raise money or make introductions.

So how do you actually get them to raise money?

1. Plan with them
In community development, we say: people who plan together, act together. When board members are involved in planning, they see the resources and effort it takes to achieve the mission. Without that understanding, they will almost always undervalue fundraising.

2. Help them map their networks
Board members aren’t supposed to be knocking on random doors. Their role is to help open their doors. Start by identifying your organization’s ideal funders, maybe that’s real estate agents, companies, or local businesses. Then ask each board member: Who do you know in this category? That’s how they map their network in a way that’s actually useful.

3. Equip them with scripts and tools
Once their network is mapped, give them the resources they need to take action. Some will be comfortable making the ask themselves, while others may prefer making introductions. Both are valuable.

4. Involve them in stewardship
Board members can also support fundraising by stewarding donors, making calls, saying thank you, and ensuring donors feel recognized. That personal touch keeps supporters engaged and giving.

Final Thoughts
Getting your board involved in fundraising isn’t about forcing quotas or unrealistic expectations. It’s about planning with them, helping them see their role in the bigger picture, and equipping them with the tools to act. When that happens, your board moves from being passive seat warmers to true partners in advancing your mission.

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