Fundraising Academy | The Nonprofit Partnership, Erie, PA

Nonprofit staff and Board Members — take your fundraising skills to the next level with the Fundraising Academy!

The Fundraising Academy is an in-depth, comprehensive training program designed to equip nonprofit professionals and Board Members with the essential skills and knowledge needed for effective fundraising. Participants will explore the history, trends, and ethical considerations of the fundraising profession, while gaining practical tools to develop, implement, and sustain successful fundraising programs.

The course emphasizes the power of relationships — helping you understand how authentic connection drives donor engagement and long-term support. Whether you’re new to fundraising or looking to strengthen your approach, the Fundraising Academy offers valuable insights to advance your organization’s mission.

Fundraising Academy is a learn-at-your-own pace online course. Through our online Learning Management System (LMS), participants can access over four hours of custom video content, readings, supplemental materials, and quizzes — all designed to build confidence and competence in fundraising. An optional in-person deep dive session provides the opportunity to apply your learning, exchange ideas, and connect with peers in a collaborative setting.

The Academy is currently open for 2026 enrollment, with optional in-person wrap up sessions on March 17 and October 6.

Enroll Now!

Fundraising Academy online modules include:

Introduction to Fundraising: Explore the fundamentals of fundraising, understanding its vital role in nonprofit organizations.
Creating a Fundraising Program: Learn how to design and implement a successful fundraising strategy tailored to your organization’s needs.
Building Relationships: Delve into the art of relationship building, a key aspect of successful fundraising efforts.
Making the Ask and Major Donors: Gain insights into approaching potential donors, with a focus on major donor engagement strategies.
Planned Giving: Discover the nuances of planned giving and how it can be integrated into your fundraising program.
Fundraising Medley: A comprehensive wrap-up covering various aspects of fundraising tactics and best practices.

Educational content brought to you by:

Adam C. Bratton, Executive Director with The Nonprofit Partnership
Jeff Bagel, CFRE, Principal with eAdvancement Consulting
Emma Kieran, Principal with Pilot Peak Consulting
David Schumacher, CFRE, Development Officer with Shriners Hospitals for Children – Erie
Ellen Kehl, former Associate Director with The Nonprofit Partnership [current Director of Development & Marketing with the Achievement Center of LECOM Behavioral Health]
Ted Wood, President with Ted Wood & Associates
Jonathan Rilling, Chief Operating Officer, Erie Homes for Children and Adults, Inc. and Board Member with The Nonprofit Partnership
Steve Higgins, CFRE, President & CEO with Carter
Angela D. Barnes, MBA, Managing Director with Carter
Melissa S. Brown, Project Associate with Carter
Audrey Edmonds Stone, CFRE, Managing Director with Carter
Erin Layden, Director of Development with Erie City Mission
Amanda Karns, Special Projects Coordinator with Harborcreek Youth Services

Target Audience:

This program is ideal for nonprofit staff and Board Members seeking to lay a solid foundation in fundraising and enhance their ability to support and advance their organizations' fundraising initiatives.

Pricing:

ONLINE COURSE [Members with The Nonprofit Partnership]: $300
ONLINE COURSE ONLY [Non-Members with The Nonprofit Partnership]: $400
IN-PERSON WRAP UP ADD ON: $35
Associate Members: contact Emmy

Group pricing is available (individual access for each within the group). Contact us to discuss options!

Registration includes light breakfast, beverages, and lunch.

BONUS! Confirmed attendees will have access to office hours with NPP's Executive Director and fundraising professional, Adam Bratton.

Course Textbooks

Nonprofit Fundraising 101: A Practical Guide to Easy to Implement Ideas and Tips from Industry Experts

by Darian Rodriguez Rodriguez Heyman
Asking Styles: Revolutionize Your Fundraising

by Brian Saber

Enroll Now!

After you register, you’ll receive an email from Easy LMS and a follow-up message from an NPP staff member confirming your course enrollment.

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