More organizations than ever are applying for the same limited funding pools. Even strong programs are being declined, not because the work lacks merit, but because proposals fail to clearly communicate credibility, alignment, and distinct value. In highly competitive environments, reviewers make...

Building a strong, effective nonprofit board doesn’t happen by accident. But too often, organizations struggle with boards that are passionate yet unprepared for the real work of governance. Without clear protocols, intentional recruitment, and meaningful development, boards can unintentionally...

For many nonprofits and the professionals who support them, Form 990 is treated as a necessary but tedious compliance task. Unfortunately, this approach overlooks the reality that the 990 is a public document read by donors, foundations, charity watchdogs, journalists, and prospective board members...

Many organizations have experienced an employee with extensive institutional knowledge leaving (for a job change or retirement) their organization, and the organization being uncertain about how to ensure a smooth transition. During such times, important information can often fall through the cracks...

** This is a fast-paced, intermediate course recommended for grant professionals who have worked on or written at least 3-5 grant proposals, as work product review and peer feedback are key components of the workshop. If you do not yet have this level of experience, we ask that you instead register...

This workshop will introduce grantwriting to nonprofit professionals who have less than one year of experience with the skill. Many people who work in nonprofits find themselves in the position of “accidental grantwriter” and do not feel fully equipped for the challenge. This session will provide a...

Operating a nonprofit—whether as a board member or key staff—comes with significant legal and fiduciary responsibilities. While every organization is unique, all nonprofits must comply with state and federal requirements to maintain tax-exempt status and safeguard charitable assets. Join the...

Most nonprofit boards recruit new members from their personal networks—a practice that is holding nonprofits back. These overlapping networks do little to attract the fresh perspectives, strengths, and strategic thinking that will help the organization evolve and thrive. Unsatisfied with the status...

In this quarter's Inspiration Expo, learn about a productive partnership between Iowa Bird Rehabilitation and DSM Hack. DSM Hack held a hackathon, in which volunteer programmers learned about Iowa Bird Rehabilitation's mission, programs, and challenges. These programmers then set to work creating a...

This two-day webinar series combines our Social Media 101 and 102 topics and includes additional resources to elevate your social media presence. Attendees will receive a Social Media Boot Camp Workbook and get additional Q&A time with our experts each day. Feb 25 | 2PM CST | Day One We’ll teach you...

Technology and AI are reshaping how mission-driven boards govern, oversee risk, and prepare for what’s next. In this panel discussion, governance experts explore how boards are thinking about AI heading into 2026—where the opportunities are, where the risks are emerging, and what it takes to adopt...

Community-based nonprofits have long been engines of innovation, care, and resilience, often operating with limited resources but unlimited commitment to those they serve. As funding models shift, public scrutiny increases, and political landscapes become more polarized, sustainability isn’t just a...