Rhode Island Foundation grantees seeking technical legal assistance in responding to recent federal actions may access resources through the Nonprofit Legal Protection Project (NLPP).

Our Capacity Building team members are available to meet with nonprofit leaders and/or attend a board meeting to facilitate challenging conversations, offer advice, or provide board education based on individual requests. Priority will be given to nonprofit organizations that align with the Community Priorities as identified in the Rhode Island Foundation’s Five-Year Action Plan. Requests for board of director consultations and/or training must be made by the organization’s board chair. 

This is an informational workshop on organizational succession planning designed for nonprofit executive directors. We’ll cover the basic elements of an emergency succession plan as well as guidance for the board’s role in planning an executive director's departure. 

This workshop will address the special role that a nonprofit board chair plays for every nonprofit. Managing board meetings, serving as a touchpoint for the executive director, and preparing for board leadership succession are some of the topics to be covered in this program.

This virtual workshop will tackle the numerous ways in which nonprofit organizations can position their fundraising plan and strategies. The workshop will share best practices for soliciting gifts through social media, letters of appeal, corporate sponsorship, fundraising events, and of course, prospective individual donors. 

ELI+ is a 10-month leadership development program for mid-level career professionals and/or managers who identify as people of color and are working in the social impact sector. Interested applicants may learn more and apply here by April 25, 2025.

INP’s Core Certificate Program equips nonprofit, public, and social impact leaders with the skills, knowledge, and networks they need to make strategic, mission-driven decisions that center equity and effect meaningful change in their organizations and beyond. Interested applicants may learn more and apply here by April 25, 2025.

This virtual program will cover all facets of nonprofit board service. The first hour (5:00 - 6:00 p.m.) will offer an overview of basic board roles and responsibilities for anyone who is unfamiliar with nonprofit governance. The second hour (6:00 - 7:00 p.m.) will go into greater detail to help new or novice board members fulfill their responsibilities. Current or prospective board members are invited to Board Service 101, 201, or both! 

INP’s RISE Program brings together the next generation of highly motivated, mission-driven, early career social sector and community leaders (with approximately five or fewer years of work experience), who are passionate about social change and advancing equity. Interested applicants may learn more and apply here by May 9, 2025.

Building off the introductory workshop, this program offers individual and peer support to nonprofit executive directors who have yet to develop an emergency or longer-term plan for their succession. Kicking-off with a workshop open to all on March 19, nonprofit executive directors can sign up to be paired with a peer coach for four sessions to support the development of individual and organizational succession plans. Priority will be given to nonprofit executive directors working within the Rhode Island Foundation's Community Priorities.