Strengthening the Leadership partnership
TRAINING OPPORTUNITY
A focus on growth, collaboration, and practical strategies
The Capacity Lab, in partnership with Strategy Solutions, Inc., is pleased to offer a unique opportunity designed to strengthen the leadership partnership between Executive Directors and Board Presidents—the cornerstone of every effective nonprofit organization.
Together, participants will explore the fundamentals of effective governance and management, clarify the distinct roles and shared responsibilities of board and staff leadership, and build communication and trust to enhance organizational performance. Sessions emphasize growth, collaboration, and practical strategies that empower leadership teams to work together with clarity, confidence, and mutual respect—laying the foundation for stronger, more resilient organizations.
Foundational Workshops
COHORT TWO
Session 1: May 12 from 3-5 p.m.
Session 2: May 26 from 3-5 p.m.
Locations will be announced soon
Two-hour group workshops for Executive Directors and their Board Presidents, limited to 3–6 organizations, covering essential leadership and governance topics, such as:
Governance and fiduciary responsibility
Board effectiveness and independence
Conducting effective board meetings
Succession planning and leadership development
Executive functions and staff leadership
Organizational sustainability
The Standards for Excellence Institute’s Ethics and Accountability Code will provide the framework within which these topics will be explored.
FOCUS AREAS
Each participating organization will select one or two focus areas for individual follow-up.
SESSION 3
One-on-ONE Consultation
COHORT 1: APRIL 2026 // COHORT 2: JUNE 2026
A 60-minute personalized session between the consultant and each Executive Director and Board President pair to explore their selected focus areas in greater depth, identify actionable strategies, and establish clear next steps for improvement.
SESSION 4
Review & Next Steps
COHORT 1: JUNE 2026 // COHORT 2: AUGUST 2026
A two-hour group session to review progress, share learning, and identify ongoing opportunities for strengthening board-staff partnerships. Discussion topics will be informed by the individualized work completed by each organization.
INVESTMENT
The Capacity Lab investment includes both the cost of the training and a $500 stipend to organizations that complete all four sessions. The stipend is to be spent on activities, resources, or equipment that align with training outcomes.
The Executive Director and Board President investment includes a commitment to attend all sessions and identify and implement actionable items.
Apply
The Capacity Lab will notify applicants of standing soon. If interest warrants, additional cohorts may be selected.