To have a durable 50-state Network, both now and in the long term, we need best-in-class leaders who have a vision for what can be done in their state and a strategy to lead their organizations to success. SPN offers a suite of services to our Network to cultivate talent, build capacities, and ensure leaders are connecting to strengthen each other in the process.
Each of our leadership programs include custom peer groups that meet regularly and foster collaboration between Network leaders, in specialties including communications, development, operations, executive leaders, executive vice presidents, and government affairs.
Board Development
A well-engaged board is one of the greatest assets a nonprofit can have. State Policy Network is committed to ensuring that board members in the SPN Network have the resources and support needed to help their organizations succeed.
Strategy Development
What is the problem a state think tank is trying to solve and how is it going to do it? These questions are the very essence of strategy for State Policy Network affiliates and partners. But it is in answering these seemingly simple questions that the real choices facing a think tank emerge. How will resources be deployed? What are the right hires and positions to fill? What problems can a think tank solve, and what problems require a different type of organization or capacity? And who does the think tank need to reach in order to achieve their goals?
In a fast-moving world, adopting a clear strategy ensures State Policy Network affiliates and partners are aligned around clear priorities and long-term goals, while staying nimble enough to adapt to changing circumstances and new opportunities.
State Policy Network has a team of experts available to Network affiliates who can help think tank leaders consider these questions, weigh trade-offs, and craft coherent strategies that help organizations achieve their mission.
Organization Accelerator
State Policy Network is accepting 3-5 affiliate members each year into the Organization Accelerator, a multi-year partnership designed to accelerate organizational growth that leads to durable policy wins. This program is for state think tanks with a compelling vision, a clear strategy (or desire to craft one), and is seeking assistance to grow revenue, staff, and capability.
Fundraising
SPN can help you take your development skills to the next level
Philanthropy is the engine keeping our nonprofit missions moving forward. But fundraising is more than just asking for money. Success requires a compelling vision that excites donors not just to give – but to partner with you to change the world.
Whether you are new to nonprofit fundraising or a seasoned development professional, SPN offers curated programs to help you achieve your goals and accelerate your impact. We will work with you and your team to assess the programs and services that fit with your organization’s current fundraising needs.
Strategic Development Planning
Every ambitious fundraising goal needs a plan. We’ll work with you to determine the strategies and resources you need to reach your team’s intended goals.
Fundraising Assessments
Sometimes it helps to have an external perspective look under the hood of your fundraising shop and assess strengths, gaps, and actionable solutions.
Development Bootcamp
Our in-person Bootcamp is not for the faint-hearted. Participants should be prepared to roll up their sleeves for an immersive week learning and applying core fundraising competencies. Bootcamp is open to Application is required and will reopen in Spring 2024.
Skill-Up Fundraising Series
Virtual fundraising trainings are offered throughout the year around critical development skills and topics. The Skill-Up Series is open to SPN members and requires advance registration.
Talent and Staffing Support
Exceptional fundraising talent can be some of the most challenging roles to hire at a nonprofit. From department heads, grant writers, major gift officers, and more – we can help you brainstorm the right role for your current needs, maximize your outreach efforts, and introduce you to potential talent.
Pitch Coaching and Feedback
The art of communicating your organization’s mission and impact to donors is a journey. SPN can help you create and refine your pitch to current and prospective donors.
CEOs and Executive Leaders
CEOs of Network members face unique challenges in driving their missions forward. SPN offers CEO programming that is dedicated to supporting and enhancing the leadership capabilities of CEOs through a tailored approach that combines individual coaching and collaborative peer groups. CEO peer groups navigate complex organizational dynamics, develop effective leadership strategies, and achieve their professional goals. Additionally, our peer group sessions foster a supportive and confidential environment where CEOs can share insights, exchange best practices, and learn from one another’s experiences. To join our community of Network CEOs and embark on a transformative journey of leadership growth and collective impact, please contact Heather Pfitzenmaier.
Executive Vice Presidents
Executive Vice Presidents are a vital part of our Network’s success. They serve a crucial role helping CEOs lead their organizations, focusing on implementation of strategic goals and building the organization’s internal infrastructure. It is essential to invest in EVPs’ continued growth so they better serve their organization and step into greater leadership.
Members of highly functioning peer groups report that the iron-sharpening-iron effect of their group challenges them to become more visionary, collaborative, and effective leaders. They appreciate the deep connections with peers who juggle similar battles, opportunities, and risk.
SPN’s EVP peer groups help these important leaders set and achieve professional development goals, challenge their assumptions, and connect with other peers who push them towards even higher levels of success.
Communications
Thoughtful and strategic communications strategy is critical for getting policy wins and creating a strong brand for your organization. SPN Consultants can help you design and refine a strategy that works to achieve your goals and support your organization’s broader mission.
Leadership Coaching
Professional Development for the Network
In order to achieve State Policy Network’s vision of an America where all people flourish, it requires building teams that win. Building teams that win means making greater investment in the people who lead and will lead public policy organizations. For this reason, SPN offers a variety of professional development services and coaching designed to cultivate the talent that will elevate our Network and transform our nation.