This page is dedicated to online board and governance resources relevant to the Canadian non-profit sector.
As you will see here, Imagine Canada is a major resource for resources! This national charitable organization supports charities and non-profits in strengthening the communities they serve. Check out its research and facts on the Canadian non-profit sector, or its board governance tools, some of which we have highlighted individually below.
We also regularly upload free resources from Board Source. It’s an American organization but many of the topics it addresses are universal in terms of being helpful for non-profits.
If you know of a resource that we should add to this page, please email our executive director and we’d be happy to add them.
Board Self-Evaluation Tool and Guidelines for Using Board Self-Evaluation Tool from Dalhousie University
Finding and recruiting the right board members – National Council of Non-Profits
What makes a good board member? – Board Source
Board chair and CEO executive partnership – infographic from Board Source
Imagine Canada information on Legal-Responsibilities-of-Boards-2016, sample Board-Member-Job-Description, sample Board-Chair-President-Sample-Job-Description, list of Duties and Liabilities of Directors and Officers of Non-Profits in Canada and Ten-Tips-For-Improving-Your-Board-Meetings-1
Imagine Canada Standards Program for Charities and Non-Profits
Governance Q&A on succession planning – Charity Village
Article on leadership succession planning from the magazine Corporate Board Member
Succession planning for non-profits: Managing Leadership Transition – National Council Of Non-Profits
National Study of Board Practices in Canada’s Non-Profit and Voluntary Sectors
Charity Village Knowledge Centre – Charity Village is the top Canadian source for Canada non-profit news, non-profit jobs, non-profit funding, non- profit training and more.
BoardSource – A large U.S. non-profit providing resources and training to the non-profit sector. They have a lot of great resources available free, like this three-page tip sheet helping boards address fundraising needs or these quick tips on board officer succession planning.
Six Competencies that Every CEO Should Have – Board Source
Independent Sector – Envisions a world of engaged individuals, robust institutions, and vibrant communities working together to improve lives and the natural world, and strengthen democratic societies.
Foundation Centre – Knowledge, transparency, and expert guidance to fundraisers and grant makers solving social problems through philanthropy.
Board Development Program, Alberta
HR Council – Learn about Canada’s non-profit labour force, access free HR management tools and resources.