SPN’s Development Training Program fosters strong philanthropic organizational cultures throughout the Network, providing resources to build transformational relationships, expand fundraising capacity, execute missions, and achieve results. SPN cultivates a peer network of skilled development professionals; assists think tank leaders and development staff with strategic development planning; and ensures they have the training and experience to translate strategy into impactful on-the-ground tactics.
Programs include:
Development Strategy
SPN’s strategic development planning gives CEOs and development staff a greater understanding of their current fundraising capabilities and equips them with practical, concrete plans to grow their fundraising efforts and achieve long-term goals.
Development Peer Network
SPN connects development staff across the network to foster trusted peer relationships and the exchange of best practices and solutions to common challenges. To facilitate these connections throughout the year, SPN hosts a variety of in-person events, including development trainings, retreats, and networking opportunities at the SPN Annual Meeting.
Workshops and Webinars
Throughout the year, SPN offers targeted in-person training and webinars for CEOs and development staff at all levels of experience. A sample of topics include major gifts, grant writing and foundation relations, legacy giving, and stewardship.
Professional Coaching
SPN supports development staff at each stage of their careers and offers individualized coaching to help them craft a customized professional development plan.
Talent and Staffing Support
SPN staff partner with CEOs and development directors to identify staffing needs, assist in talent searches, and onboard new development staff into their positions and the network.
*Note: All SPN workshops and trainings are by invitation only. Any SPN member organization interested in learning more should contact SPN’s Director of Fundraising Strategies, Natalie Bezek (nbezek@spn.org).