North State Board Institute
Better boards build
stronger nonprofits.
The North State Board Institute (NSBI) empowers and equips current and aspiring nonprofit board members with the knowledge, skills, and resources to lead effectively and drive positive change within their organizations.
Why this matters
Nonprofits in the North State face unprecedented challenges, demands, and leadership struggles. The need for their services, products, expertise, and attention keeps growing.
The backbone of every nonprofit is its Board of Directors. A Board of Directors is required to be in place by every nonprofit organization in order to provide governance, oversight, and leadership. Sadly, despite this requirement, most nonprofits lack an effective board of directors.
Given the unique attributes of nonprofits and their boards, the boardroom needs a group of individuals who are committed, attentive, and responsible. Effective boards are uniquely and properly trained, equipped, and engaged to work in alignment for the good of the organization. This “good” includes the purpose, mission, and impact for which the organization was established.
The unfortunate reality is that many boards fall short.
They often lack focus, training, and an intentional eye toward the organization's future. Without those things, impact and success suffer.
For decades, the literature on board training has focused on roles and responsibilities: “If only the members knew what they were supposed to do, then they would just do it.” Yes, but. That is not enough. Start with your nonprofit's unique characteristics: its phase of development, its niche, and its community challenges. Then decide what kind of board you need. Great individuals recruited do not guarantee a great board. Teams are not accidental. They are shaped, created, envisioned, and honed.
Who this is for
Partner nonprofits
Partner nonprofits will enroll current and potential board members at the NSBI to complete their board training, regardless of their experience, education, or years of service on other boards. Some will use the Institute certification program as a requisite for board service.
Participating businesses
Participating businesses send community-minded staff to NSBI for training, so they are ready for board service,
Individuals
Preparing for your first board? Or sharpening your skills on the one you have? You will find clarity and excellence here.
The curriculum
The Certificate Program will include:
The Basics: Nonprofit 101.
Mindset for Service. Why do you want to serve? How do you name your values, and what do you bring?
What do I need to know? The core responsibilities of a board.
The Real Work: the legal and financial duties that protect your organization.
Advanced Options. Governance as Leadership: developing a generative contribution.
Not a solo act. Team building; bringing your best self with Working Genius
Looking Outward. Public relations, ambassadorship, and fundraising
Starting well. Interview for the job is a two-way street: what you need to know before saying yes, and what they need to know.
Succession. Build a leadership relay that keeps the organization moving.
Top ten measures of board success. How to know your board is effective.
Certification
Certification details, including requirements, are coming soon.