Or search it all, right here:

Frequently Asked Questions: Charity Auctions

Here are answers to common questions about the charity auction training and resources available on Nonprofit.Courses.

Course Content & Topics

What types of charity auction topics are covered?

The "Charity Auctions" section covers every aspect of planning and executing a successful auction, including:

• Auction Formats: Silent auctions, live auctions, and virtual/online auctions.
• Planning & Logistics: Fundamentals of auction planning, cost-cutting strategies, and venue ideas (even unusual ones like airplane hangars!).
• Revenue Generation: Procurement strategies (getting the right items), mobile bidding, and creating "fund-a-need" appeals.
• Engagement: Themes (e.g., "Sock Hop," "Havana Nights"), celebrity involvement, and attendee retention.

Are there resources for virtual auctions?

Yes. There is a specific focus on Virtual Charity Auctions, helping nonprofits transition from traditional galas to online formats, including technical advice and donor engagement strategies for remote events.

Do you have ideas for auction items?

Yes. You can find content specifically dedicated to Auction Items, offering creative ideas for what to sell, how to write donation letters, and how to package items for maximum bids.

Pricing & Formats

Are the auction courses free?

A large portion of the content is available as Free Courses, particularly the short, tactical videos from experts like Red Apple Auctions. There are also Premium Paid Courses for more in-depth training.

What formats are available?

• Videos: Ranging from quick 2-minute tips to hour-long webinars.
• Podcasts: Audio discussions on auction trends and strategies.
• Documents: Written guides and checklists.

Instructors & Providers

Who teaches these courses?

The content is provided by leading auctioneers and fundraising experts, including:

• Red Apple Auctions: A primary contributor offering numerous tips on everything from bid sheets to stage presence.
• Auction Platforms: Auction Frogs, Auctria, and Qgiv provide insights often tied to their technology.
• Fundraising Experts: Get Fully Funded, Artisan Auctions, and Arreva.

Getting Started

I'm new to auctions. Where should I start?

Look for the "Charity Auction Fundamentals" section. It covers the basics of organizing an event, understanding the timeline, and setting realistic revenue goals.

Can I find new ideas for an established event?

Absolutely. Experienced planners can explore sections on "Auction Programs" and "Attendance" to find fresh themes, revenue boosters, and strategies to combat donor fatigue (e.g., "Groundhog Day Blasé").

Here's a great place to start!

Sign up to begin your Certificate in Entrepreneurship, today!

This online certificate program introduces key issues in entrepreneurship for those looking to start a business on their own.

What does it take to build and grow a business from scratch? What personal characteristics are shared by successful entrepreneurs? What types of resources are available to budding entrepreneurs, and where can you find them?

Learners who complete this program will have the answers to those questions and others that are essential to the success of their businesses. This certificate is suitable for new business owners, as well as anyone considering the challenges of entrepreneurship.

Frequently Asked Questions: Nonprofit Consultants & Freelancers

Here are answers to common questions about the training, resources, and skills available for nonprofit consultants on Nonprofit.Courses.

Overview & Audience

Who are these resources for?

This section is designed for anyone who provides services to the nonprofit sector, including:

• Freelancers: Grant writers, designers, and copywriters.
• Consultants: Strategic advisors, fundraising coaches, and board trainers.
• Vendors: Professionals selling products or specific services to nonprofits.
• Transitional Professionals: Individuals moving between jobs who are consulting in the interim.

I’m just starting out. Is this for me?

Yes. There is a dedicated focus on "Nonprofit Consulting Start Up" to help you begin on the right foot. You can find resources on business planning, naming your practice, and understanding the "attributes of a perfect consultant."

Topics & Content

What key topics are covered?

The training covers both the business of consulting and the skills needed to serve clients, including:

• Business Operations: Fees, finances, and planning.
• Sales & Marketing: How to get the word out and attract clients.
• Content Creation: Using video, podcasts, and course creation to market your expertise.
• Skill Building: Public speaking, Zoom meeting management, and book publishing.

Are there specific resources for marketing my business?

Absolutely. You will find extensive content on Content Marketing—teaching you how to use blogs, videos, and books to demonstrate your value to potential clients. There are also guides on "Essential Marketing Tools."

What is "The ThinkNP Guide"?

The ThinkNP Guide to Nonprofit Consulting is a featured book by Matt Hugg, available through this page. It serves as a practical workbook and step-by-step guide for building a successful business serving the nonprofit sector.

Free Tools & Worksheets

Are there free downloadable resources?

Yes, the page offers several Free Worksheets and lists, such as:

• 33 Attributes of a Perfect Consultant.
• Essential Marketing Tools for Nonprofit Consulting.
• Essential Website Naming Guidelines.
• Lists of associations and books for consultants.

Instructors & Providers

Who provides the training?

Content is curated from experienced consultants and business experts, including:

• Matt Hugg: Author of The ThinkNP Guide and host of the Nonprofit Consultant Zone Blog.
• Business Experts: MarketAtomy, MindEdge (offering certificates in Entrepreneurship), and Holly Rustick (grant writing).
• Tech Trainers: Experts like Teachers Tech (YouTube/Video skills) and Demelza Marie.

Formats & Certification

Can I get certified?

Yes. You can find certificate programs such as the Certificate in Entrepreneurship or Certificate in Leadership for Women in Business (provided by MindEdge) to validate your business skills.

What formats are available?

• Blog Posts: Nearly 200 posts from the Nonprofit Consultant Zone.
• Videos: Tutorials on tech, marketing, and soft skills.
• Documents: Checklists, worksheets, and templates.
• Podcasts: Interviews with successful consultants.

Plan ahead! Take Fast Company's Future-Proofing Your Career. Enroll today!

Today's job market is more competitive than ever, and workers must not only think about how to land jobs but also how to keep their jobs and continue progressing in their careers.

All professionals--whether just entering their fields or currently holding leadership roles--can benefit from skill development and reinforcement.

This bundle, based on Fast Company's award-winning journalistic content, will help professionals across all industries future-proof their careers by focusing on key skills in the areas of communication, creativity and innovation, design thinking, networking, and personal branding. Courses in this bundle offer real-world examples, how-to lists and advice, industry spotlights, videos from industry-leading practitioners, interactive games, and review questions to ensure mastery of the material.

Affiliate disclaimer: The above nonprofit career courses content may include affiliate links. That means when you buy it, Nonprofit.Courses earns a commission, at no extra cost to you. It’s a win/win. You get some great content, and we keep the lights on!

Frequently Asked Questions: Nonprofit Career Courses

Here are answers to common questions about the career development, job search, and personal growth training available on Nonprofit.Courses.

Course Content & Topics

What types of career-focused topics are covered?

The "Nonprofit Career Courses" section covers a broad spectrum of professional development topics, including:

• Job Search & Transition: Resume building, interview preparation, personal branding, and networking.
• Soft Skills: Public speaking, email etiquette, time management, and conflict resolution.
• Leadership & Management: Soft skills for project managers, handling difficult conversations, and remote workforce management.
• Personal Growth: Self-care, confidence building, and financial wellness.
• Specialized Career Paths: Fundraising careers, grant writing, and nonprofit consulting.

Are there resources for specific career stages?

Yes. The content is designed for various stages of a nonprofit career:

• Starting Out: Entry-level advice and job search basics.
• Career Changers: Guidance for those moving into the nonprofit sector from other industries.
• Established Professionals: Advanced leadership training and "new direction" advice for seasoned staff.
• Consultants & Freelancers: Specific resources for those looking to start or grow a consulting practice (often linked with NonprofitConsulting.Courses).

Do you offer training on remote work?

Yes, there are specific courses dedicated to "Working Remotely," "Working at Home," and managing remote teams, which are essential for today's hybrid work environments.

Pricing & Formats

Are the career courses free?

There is a significant selection of Free Content, including short videos, podcasts, and webinars. However, there are also Premium Paid Courses (often for more in-depth training or certifications) and academic courses available for purchase.

What formats are available?

You can find content in various formats to suit your schedule:

• Videos: Ranging from quick 5-minute tips to hour-long webinars.
• Podcasts: Audio series for listening while commuting or working.
• Documents: Written guides and templates.
• Academic Courses & Certificates: Structured learning programs for formal credentials.

Instructors & Partners

Who provides the career training?

The platform features content from recognized career coaches, recruitment agencies, and educational institutions, such as:

• Career Experts: Careers in Nonprofits, Great Careers/BENG, The Nonprofit Career Coach, and Career Potential.
• Educational Platforms: MindEdge (offering certificates), Coursera, and Lorman.
• Industry Thought Leaders: Experts like Bloomerang and Jeff Pospisil.

Certifications

Can I get a certificate for career skills?

Yes. You can filter the search results for "Certificates" to find programs that offer formal recognition upon completion, such as the Certificate in Nonprofit Management by MindEdge or specific specializations from Coursera.

If you're even thinking about starting your organization, then you need Starting Your Own Nonprofit Organization.

It's a how-to guide for anyone who's got a great idea about how to give back to the community—but doesn't know how to turn that idea into a reality.

The course begins by considering a fundamental question: Is starting a nonprofit the best way to achieve your philanthropic goals?

For those who answer "Yes," the course then discusses the key steps in getting a nonprofit off the ground, including incorporating your organization; applying for tax-exempt status; drafting a business plan; choosing a board of directors and writing bylaws for the organization; recruiting employees and managing volunteers; and addressing the crucial issue of fundraising. Rich with videos and interactive content, this course provides a detailed and highly practical introduction to the fast-growing world of nonprofits.

Affiliate disclaimer: This content may include affiliate links. That means when you buy it, Nonprofit.Courses earns a commission, at no extra cost to you. It’s a win/win. You get some great content, and we keep the lights on!

Frequently Asked Questions: Small & Startup Nonprofits

Here are answers to common questions about the training and resources available for new and small nonprofits on Nonprofit.Courses.

Getting Started

1. I have a great idea. Where should I begin?

If you are just starting out, check out the "The Fundamentals" and "Founders" sections. You will find essential resources like the "Nonprofit Start Up Checklist" and courses that help you answer the fundamental question: "Is starting a nonprofit the best way to achieve your philanthropic goals?"

2. What legal steps are covered?

The content guides you through the technical "nitty-gritty" of launching, including:

• Incorporation: How to file Articles of Incorporation.
• 501(c)(3) Status: "5 things people don't tell you about 501c3 status."
• Compliance: Choosing a Registered Agent and understanding trademarks.
• Structure: Deciding between a nonprofit, a for-profit, or an LLC (and "Can my LLC become a nonprofit?").

3. What is Fiscal Sponsorship?

If you aren't ready to start a full 501(c)(3) yet, the section on Fiscal Sponsorship explains how you can operate under the umbrella of an existing nonprofit to accept tax-deductible donations.

Course Content & Topics

4. What other topics are covered for small shops?

Beyond the legal setup, you will find training on running a "scrappy" organization:

• Boards: "How many board members for your startup?" and "How to Host Your First Nonprofit Board Meeting."
• Fundraising: How to get started with grant writing (4 steps) and budgeting for small teams.
• Marketing: Marketing strategies that lead to community support.
• Social Entrepreneurship: Designing business models for social impact.

5. Is there specific advice for founders?

Yes. The "Founders" category addresses the unique challenges of being a founder, often "wearing many hats" and transitioning from a visionary to an operator.

Instructors & Providers

6. Who provides the startup training?

The content is curated from experts who specialize in helping small organizations grow:

• Boss on a Budget: A key contributor offering practical checklists and videos on startup hurdles (e.g., board size, IRS forms).
• Legal Experts: Birken Law (trademarks and arts) and Harbor Compliance (registered agents).
• Consultants: TVA Consulting (budgeting/business models) and Shalita O'Neale.

Pricing & Certificates

7. Are these resources expensive?

Most of the content is Free, recognizing that startups are often "watching their pennies." You can find free checklists, short video tips, and webinars.

8. Can I get a certificate in entrepreneurship?

Yes. For those wanting formal training, there are options like the Certificate in Entrepreneurship or Certificate in Finance Essentials provided by MindEdge.

Formats

9. What formats are available?

• Checklists: Downloadable "Nonprofit Start Up Checklist."
• Short Videos: Quick answers to specific questions (e.g., 3-10 minutes).
• Comprehensive Courses: In-depth guides like "Starting Your Own Nonprofit Organization."

Or search it all, right here:

Kickoff your grantwriting right by taking the Grant Writing Skills Suite.

This two-course bundle offers the introductory through intermediate skills needed for those involved in gaining funding for any nonprofit organization's mission.

Strategic grant writing aligns the needs of a nonprofit with funding sources, whether those sources are foundations, government agencies, corporations, or individuals. The first course in this bundle, Introduction to Grant Writing, offers a guide to the basics of grant writing. The course explores the relationship between grant writing and an organization's strategy for fundraising. It also outlines the six stages of grant writing and highlights grant writing best practices.

Advanced Grant Writing, the second course in this bundle, challenges learners to push those newly acquired grant writing skills to the next level, challenging learners to ask iterative questions in order to sharpen and refine each grant proposal and push it to the top of the pack. By looking closely at how a logic model can shore up a proposal at each key stage, this course will demonstrate how to push planning, evaluation, and budgeting from good to great.

Affiliate disclaimer: This content may include affiliate links. That means when you buy it, Nonprofit.Courses earns a commission, at no extra cost to you. It’s a win/win. You get some great content, and we keep the lights on!

Frequently Asked Questions: Nonprofit Grantwriting Courses

Overview

What kind of content can I find on this page?

This page is a comprehensive hub for Nonprofit Grantwriting Courses. It aggregates a wide variety of educational materials designed to help you win more grants. You will find video courses, podcasts, documents, live event recordings, and blog posts covering every aspect of the grant seeking process.

Who are these courses for?

The content is suitable for everyone from beginners to experienced professionals. Whether you are a volunteer writing your first proposal, a staff member looking to refine your budgeting skills, or a consultant seeking advanced strategies, there is content tailored to your needs.

Course Content & Topics

What specific topics are covered?

The curriculum is extensive and categorized to help you find exactly what you need. Key topics include:

• The Basics: Fundamentals for those new to grant writing.
• Grant Research: How to find the right funders and prospects.
• Proposal Writing: Tips for narratives, budgets, and specific proposal sections.
• Specialized Grants: Government grants, corporate relations, and Google Ad Grants.
• Technology & AI: Using modern tools to streamline your workflow.
• Management: Grant readiness, reporting, and building a grant team.

Are there full certification programs available?

Yes. The page features a "Certificates and Academic Courses" section where you can find more formal, in-depth training programs, such as the Grant Writing Skills Suite by MindEdge, which offers introductory to advanced skills.

Does this page only cover writing proposals?

No. It covers the entire lifecycle of the grant process. This includes organizational readiness (preparing to apply), research (finding funders), evaluation (measuring impact), and post-award management (compliance and reporting).

Pricing & Access

Are the courses free?

There is a mix of both Free and Premium (Paid) content.

• Free Content: Many videos, podcasts, and short courses are available at no cost.
• Premium Content: Comprehensive courses, certificates, and specialized training often come with a fee.
• Deals: You can also find special offers and discounts on paid content.

How can I filter for free or paid courses?

You can use the "Do You want a Free or Premium Course?" dropdown menu on the page to specifically filter for Free Courses, Premium Paid Courses, or Certificates.

Navigation & Experts

Who provides the training?

The content is sourced from a wide range of Content Experts and trusted organizations in the nonprofit sector. You will see materials from providers like Boss on a Budget, DH Leonard Consulting, Instrumentl, Grants.gov, MindEdge, and many others. You can filter by specific experts if you have a favorite instructor.

How do I find short videos versus long courses?

Use the "How Much Time do You Have?" filter to sort content by duration and type, ranging from 5 Minutes or Less (quick tips) to 60 Minutes or More (webinars and deep dives), as well as specific formats like Podcasts or Documents.

Nonprofit Leadership starts with the board!

That's why you need Nonprofit Skills^™: Board Fundamentals Certificate!

Nonprofit board members come from a variety of different backgrounds, but all of them share a commitment to the mission and vision of their organization.

The Nonprofit Skills^™ Board Fundamentals Certificate provides learners with the critical knowledge and skills required to serve on a nonprofit board. The content covers key topics including legal obligations, financial management, strategic planning, public communication, fundraising, leadership oversight, and measuring progress.

Each self-paced course includes interactive activities, case studies, readings, and videos with advice from experts in the field. Learners will complete the certificate with a comprehensive understanding of how nonprofit board members effectively meet the needs of their organization.

Affiliate disclaimer: This content may include affiliate links. That means when you buy it, Nonprofit.Courses earns a commission, at no extra cost to you. It’s a win/win. You get some great content, and we keep the lights on!

Affiliate disclaimer: This content may include affiliate links. That means when you buy it, Nonprofit.Courses earns a commission, at no extra cost to you. It’s a win/win. You get some great content, and we keep the lights on!

Nonprofit Leadership, Management, and Boards: Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes nonprofit leadership training different from corporate training?

Nonprofit leadership is unique because leaders are seen as the embodiment of a mission. Unlike the corporate world, nonprofit managers and board members must balance community trust, volunteer management, and mission delivery with financial sustainability. Our courses are specifically designed to address these "mission-first" dynamics.

2. I just joined a nonprofit board. Where should I start?

We highly recommend the Nonprofit Skills™: Board Fundamentals Certificate. This self-paced program covers the critical pillars of board service, including legal obligations, financial oversight, strategic planning, and how to effectively measure an organization’s progress.

3. What specific topics are covered under the "Management" category?

The management curriculum is broad and includes:

• Employee Performance: Workplace excellence and staff retention.
• Volunteer Management: Best practices for engaging and leading unpaid staff.
• Technology & Operations: Vital tools for efficient mission delivery.
• DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion): Creating impact through diverse leadership.

4. Are there resources for executive directors specifically?

Yes. We offer content tailored for Executive Directors, including "Executive Director 101" sessions, crisis management training, and peer-led podcasts that discuss the realities of leading an organization from the top.

5. Does Nonprofit.Courses offer training on Strategic Planning?

Absolutely. You can find everything from 1-minute "Quick Tips" on when you need a strategic plan to deep-dive courses on the difference between Operational Plans and Strategic Plans. These resources help leadership teams build a sustainable future.

6. Can I find help with "difficult" leadership tasks, like negotiations or conflict?

Yes. We feature specialized certificates and courses such as:

• Certificate in Negotiation: Essential for contracts and community partnerships.
• Managing Change and Resolving Conflict: Practical techniques for navigating challenging workplace conversations.

7. Are there resources for "Startup" nonprofit leaders?

Yes. For those in the early stages, we have specific content like "7 Small Business Terms You Should Know When Starting" and guides on drafting bylaws (e.g., "14 Secrets to Not Leave Out of Your Nonprofit Bylaws").

8. How much time do these courses take?

The content is designed to fit a busy leader’s schedule. You can filter by:

• Quick Bites: 5 to 15 minutes for immediate tips.
• Deep Dives: 60+ minutes for comprehensive training.
• Multi-Day: Full certificate programs and "Drip" email series.

9. Who provides the expertise for these leadership courses?

Courses are curated from a wide network of "Content Experts," including industry leaders like MindEdge, Lorman, Bloomerang, and independent consultants who specialize in nonprofit governance and management.

10. Can I get a certificate to show my board or employer?

Yes. Many of our leadership and board programs offer Certificates of Completion. These are excellent for professional development records and for demonstrating a board's commitment to excellence during grant applications or audits.