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Not-for-profit (NFP) governance fundamentals: Board basics for the NFP director

The board of an NFP is at the top of the organizational structure and ultimately responsible for the organization’s oversight and strategic direction. As a new director, get the knowledge you need to fulfil this role.

Directors of not-for-profit organizations are often not otherwise involved in the NFP sector and take on this responsibility as a way to “give back.” However, becoming a director of an NFP organization is a significant responsibility, and must be undertaken with care. After all, the board is at the top of the organizational structure and ultimately responsible for the oversight and strategic direction of the organization. This guide will help new directors understand the basic structure of the sector and the responsibilities in the director role.

This guide will help you understand:

  • the NFP sector (including how it differs from the for-profit sector)
  • how NFPs are organized
  • the role and responsibilities of NFP boards and directors
  • the lifecycle of the board

This guide is intended for:

  • aspiring or new directors of not-for-profit organizations.

This publication is reviewed annually for relevance and accuracy.