How Nonprofit Leaders Can Build Stronger Partnerships

In the world of nonprofit leadership, one of the most complex relationships you’ll manage is the one with your board and committees. These groups are more than just governance bodies; they’re your strategic partners, champions, and in many cases, key drivers of funding and influence.

So how can senior leaders turn board and committee relationships into powerful sources of impact?

Here are some strategies:

1. Build Trust and Transparency

Trust is the foundation of any strong partnership. Be intentional about keeping your board informed—not just on successes, but on challenges, too. Regular, honest communication creates a culture where board members feel invested and respected.

Tip: Share a monthly “executive snapshot” email with key metrics, high-level updates, and any board-relevant risks or opportunities. 

2. Clarify Roles 

Misalignment often stems from unclear expectations. Be clear about the distinction between governance (setting the direction) and management (problem solving), and help committee members understand where their expertise is most valuable.

Tip: Assign roles and responsibilities and emphasize the value that each role provides.

3. Engage Early and Often

If you’re seeking board support on a major initiative or fundraising campaign, don’t wait until everything’s polished to bring them in. Engaging board and committee members early gives them a sense of ownership and often results in stronger buy-in.

Tip: Invite board input during the planning phases of strategic initiatives or campaigns.

4. Make It Easy to Be a Great Ambassador

Your board and committee members want to help, but they need the right tools. Equip them with messaging, impact stats, and stories they can easily share in conversations with donors, peers, and community leaders.

Tip: Create a quarterly “ambassador toolkit” with talking points, donor-ready stories, and social media posts to make advocacy easy.

5. Recognize All Contributions, Not Only Fundraising

While fundraising is essential, your board members bring so much more to the table: expertise, influence, and access to networks. Acknowledge their unique value and celebrate wins beyond just dollars raised.

Tip: Publicly highlight board contributions in newsletters or events (e.g., “Thanks to Board Member Maria for opening the door to an incredible new partnership!”).

6. Create Space for Relationship Building

When you foster authentic connections between staff and board members, you create a culture of trust and collaboration. Find ways to bring both groups together outside of formal meetings.

Tip: Host informal coffee chats, roundtable lunches, or mission-driven site visits that allow for connection in a more relaxed setting.