Introduction

In today's dynamic global landscape, robust governance for Non-Profits and NGOs is absolutely critical for ensuring mission effectiveness, maintaining donor trust, and achieving sustainable social impact. These organizations operate under unique pressures, balancing passionate advocacy with stringent accountability, ethical fundraising, and effective program delivery. This comprehensive training course is meticulously designed to equip current and aspiring leaders, board members, and professionals within the non-profit sector with the essential frameworks and practical strategies to build transparent, resilient, and impactful organizations.

This 5-day intensive program will empower participants to cultivate a deep understanding of non-profit legal obligations, master ethical fundraising practices, and refine their ability to lead with integrity and strategic foresight in a mission-driven context. You will learn to establish clear governance structures, manage financial stewardship, and foster a culture of accountability to beneficiaries and funders alike. By mastering these critical competencies, you will enhance your capacity to navigate complexities, amplify your organization's impact, and secure its long-term viability.

Duration: 5 Days

Target Audience

• Non-Profit Executive Directors and CEOs
• NGO Board Members and Trustees
• Program Managers in Non-Profits/NGOs
• Fundraising and Development Managers
• Compliance Officers in Non-Profits
• Financial Managers in Non-Profits
• Legal Counsel for Non-Profit Organizations
• Aspiring Leaders in the Social Sector
• Volunteer Coordinators in leadership roles
• Consultants working with Non-Profits/NGOs

Objectives

• Understand the unique governance landscape for Non-Profits and NGOs.
• Develop a strategic framework for effective board oversight in the non-profit sector.
• Master ethical fundraising practices and donor stewardship.
• Learn to ensure compliance with relevant legal and regulatory requirements.
• Cultivate skills in financial management and accountability for non-profits.
• Enhance transparency and reporting to diverse stakeholders.
• Understand the role of internal controls and risk management in NGOs.
• Develop strategies for building a strong, mission-driven organizational culture.
• Create a personalized action plan for strengthening governance in your non-profit/NGO.

Course Modules

Module 1: Foundations of Non-Profit Governance

• Defining Non-Profit Organizations (NPOs) and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs).
• Understanding the unique mission-driven nature and public trust imperative.
• Exploring different legal structures and their governance implications.
• The roles and responsibilities of the board of directors/trustees.
• Key principles of good governance for the non-profit sector.

Module 2: Legal and Regulatory Compliance for NPOs/NGOs

• Overview of relevant laws and regulations governing non-profits (e.g., charity law, tax-exempt status).
• Understanding compliance requirements for registration, reporting, and operations.
• Navigating international regulations for NGOs operating globally.
• The importance of legal counsel and adherence to statutory obligations.
• Case studies of compliance challenges and best practices.

Module 3: Ethical Fundraising and Donor Stewardship

• Principles of ethical fundraising and donor relations.
• Understanding donor rights and transparency in fundraising.
• Compliance with fundraising regulations and best practices.
• Strategies for building long-term relationships with donors and funders.
• Managing restricted funds and ensuring proper allocation.

Module 4: Financial Management and Accountability

• Key financial statements and metrics for non-profit organizations.
• Developing sound budgeting and financial planning processes.
• Implementing robust internal controls for financial integrity.
• Understanding audit requirements and preparing for external audits.
• Ensuring transparency in financial reporting to stakeholders.

Module 5: Board Effectiveness and Strategic Oversight

• Strategies for recruiting, onboarding, and developing effective board members.
• Facilitating productive board meetings and decision-making processes.
• The board's role in strategic planning and mission alignment.
• Overseeing program effectiveness and impact measurement.
• Managing board-executive director relations and performance.

Module 6: Risk Management and Internal Controls

• Identifying and assessing key risks for non-profits/NGOs (e.g., reputational, financial, operational, programmatic).
• Developing a comprehensive risk management framework.
• Implementing internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure compliance.
• Crisis management and business continuity planning for NPOs/NGOs.
• The role of internal audit and oversight committees.

Module 7: Building a Culture of Integrity and Impact

• Strategies for embedding ethical values throughout the organization.
• Developing and communicating clear codes of conduct for staff and volunteers.
• Fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and continuous learning.
• The role of leadership in modeling ethical behavior and mission commitment.
• Creating a personalized action plan for enhancing governance and impact in your non-profit/NGO.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.