This is a question posed by many organizations. Particularly in this economic environment, it’s
more and more difficult to justify spending money on things that build our capacity and
infrastructure. Yet, it is our argument that this is exactly what will help you raise more money.
We hope you weren’t looking for a guaranteed line of causation from certification to increased
fundraising dollars. It would be irresponsible of us to promise that.

Each nonprofit is unique, and every single one will implement the Standards for Excellence ®
code in a way that works for that organization. Yet, implementing each of the elements of the
Standards for Excellence code within your organization can have lasting effects on your board’s
engagement and your organizational capacity and sustainability. 

Will you raise more money? Maybe.

Will you end up with a more effective and respected organization? Yes.

Can you leverage that effectiveness and respect to raise more money for your cause? We
certainly hope so. That’s up to you.