FAQ - Nonprofit Consulting Questions Answered

Question 1

What types of organizations does Armstrong McGuire work with?

Accepted Answer

Armstrong McGuire works exclusively with nonprofit organizations and philanthropic foundations from small community-based nonprofits to large, national or international organizations. Our clients span a wide range of mission areas including education, food security, housing, faith, health, arts and culture and animals and environment. Whether you're a mature organization navigating complex growth or a young nonprofit just getting started, we have the experience and perspective to walk alongside you.

Question 2

How do I know if my organization is ready to work with a consultant?

Accepted Answer

If your organization is facing a leadership transition, looking to expand your team, struggling to grow your fundraising, or feeling uncertain about your strategic direction — you're ready. You don't need to have everything figured out before reaching out. In fact, the earlier you engage a consulting partner, the better positioned you are to navigate challenges proactively rather than reactively. If you're asking the question, that's usually a good sign it's time to have a conversation.

Question 3

What does an engagement with Armstrong McGuire typically look like?

Accepted Answer

Every engagement starts with listening. We take time to understand your organization's history, culture, goals, and challenges before recommending a path forward. From there, we tailor our approach — whether that's an executive search, an interim leader, a capital campaign readiness assessment, strategic planning or leadership coaching, we work as a true partner alongside your team. Once we connect, we consider you part of the family and after our first meeting, we think you will feel the same.

Question 4

Does Armstrong McGuire work with organizations outside of North Carolina?

Accepted Answer

Yes! While Armstrong McGuire is headquartered in the Research Triangle area of North Carolina, we work with nonprofit and philanthropic organizations across the country. Our team has supported clients in communities from coast to coast and we are well-equipped to engage remotely or travel as the work requires.

Question 5

How does Armstrong McGuire structure its fees?

Accepted Answer

Our fees vary based on the scope and nature of the engagement. Most projects are structured as flat project fees with payments spread in equal, monthly installments over the life of the project. Over two decades, we have learned that this structure is easiest for most nonprofits to manage within their budgets and cashflows. We are always transparent about our pricing upfront so there are no surprises — and every engagement begins with a clear scope of work so you know exactly what you're getting and what it costs.

Question 6

Can smaller nonprofits afford to work with Armstrong McGuire?

Accepted Answer

We work with organizations of varying sizes and budgets, and we understand that smaller nonprofits often have the greatest need but the tightest resources. We do our best to scope engagements in a way that delivers real value at a level that's accessible and actionable. If a full engagement isn't the right fit right now, we can also point you toward our training programs, events and resources that can help you build capacity. We'd rather have a conversation and find the right fit than have cost be a barrier to getting you support.

Question 7

Can you help us start a planned giving program?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Legacy gifts are impactful for both the giver and the organization that benefits. We help you design and launch a program that matches your culture, your audience, and your opportunity.

Question 8

Do you provide interim development support?

Accepted Answer

Yes! If your development leadership is in transition, we provide an interim development manager who will keep your development program moving forward. And, as we are helping you execute your strategy, we will offer suggestions to enhance your processes, donor relations and systems. In other words, we don't just fill the gap, we leave you stronger.

Question 9

How can Armstrong McGuire help us grow our fundraising capacity?

Accepted Answer

We meet you where you are. Whether you're building a development program from scratch or looking to strengthen an existing one, our team works with you to assess your current fundraising efforts, identify gaps and create a strategy aligned with your mission and goals. From donor cultivation and major gifts to annual fund strategy and campaign planning, we provide both the expertise and the hands-on support to help your organization raise more, sustainably.

Question 10

What is a feasibility study and do we need one before launching a capital campaign?

Accepted Answer

A feasibility study is a confidential assessment that helps determine whether your organization has the donor relationships, leadership capacity and community support needed to successfully complete a capital campaign. We conduct interviews with key stakeholders, analyze your donor base, and deliver an honest assessment of your readiness — including a recommended goal range. While not every campaign requires a formal feasibility study, we strongly recommend one before making a major public commitment. It protects your organization and sets your campaign up for success from day one.

Question 11

We've never run a major gifts program — where do we start?

Accepted Answer

You start with relationships. Major gifts are built on trust and genuine connection — not just a strong ask. Armstrong McGuire helps you identify prospects already in your network, equip your leadership and board to have meaningful donor conversations, and build the systems and culture needed to sustain a major gifts program long term. We'll help you take the first steps with confidence, even if this is entirely new territory for your team.

Question 12

How do you help organizations that are overly dependent on one funding source?

Accepted Answer

Over-reliance on a single funder — whether that's a government grant, a foundation or one major donor — is one of the most common and most urgent vulnerabilities we see in nonprofits. We help organizations map their current funding landscape, identify diversification opportunities, and build a more balanced and resilient revenue strategy. This isn't a quick fix, but with the right plan and consistent execution, it's absolutely achievable.

Question 13

What's the difference between an executive search and interim leadership — and how do we know which we need?

Accepted Answer

An executive search is a deliberate process to find and hire your next permanent leader. Interim leadership is a bridge — a seasoned leader who steps in to keep the organization stable and moving while you figure out what's next. Sometimes you need one, sometimes the other, and sometimes both in sequence. If you're in or approaching a leadership transition, we'll help you think through the right approach before you commit to a path.

Question 14

What does Armstrong McGuire's executive search process look like?

Accepted Answer

It's thorough and relationship-driven. We start by getting clear on what your organization actually needs in its next leader — not just the job description, but the leadership qualities, culture fit, and strategic priorities that matter most. From there we build a candidate pool through active outreach and our deep sector network, guide you through a structured interview and assessment process, and stay engaged through the offer and transition. We don't hand you a stack of resumes and disappear.

Question 15

How do you approach succession planning with an organization?

Accepted Answer

Thoughtfully and early — ideally before it's urgent. Succession planning isn't just about identifying a next executive director; it's about building the leadership depth and organizational resilience to handle transitions well. We work with boards and leadership teams to assess internal readiness, identify development opportunities, and create a plan that protects the mission regardless of what happens to any one person.

Question 16

Can you help us develop our existing leadership team, not just find new leaders?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — and this is often where the highest-leverage work happens. We offer board retreats, staff leadership development, and team-based learning experiences designed to strengthen the leadership already inside your organization. Building from within isn't just cost-effective; it's one of the best investments a nonprofit can make in its long-term health and culture.

Question 17

How do you approach strategic planning with a nonprofit?

Accepted Answer

We start by creating space — for your leadership team, your board, and sometimes key stakeholders — to think clearly and honestly about where the organization is and where it needs to go. Our process is facilitated, grounded in data, and designed to produce a plan that's actually usable, not one that sits on a shelf. We build in the right amount of challenge so the conversation is productive, and the right amount of structure so it results in clear priorities and ownership.

Question 18

Can Armstrong McGuire help us think through a merger or collaboration with another organization?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Mergers and strategic collaborations are complex — organizationally, relationally, and emotionally. We help you think through the decision itself, structure the process, facilitate the hard conversations, and navigate the integration work that follows. Whether you're exploring the idea or already in serious discussions, we bring both the experience and the objectivity to help you move forward wisely.

Question 19

Our organization has grown quickly and feels misaligned — where do we start?

Accepted Answer

With an honest conversation about what's actually happening. Rapid growth often outpaces the systems, structures, and culture that got you there — and that gap creates friction. We help you diagnose where the misalignment lives and build a plan to address it, whether that means restructuring teams, clarifying roles, strengthening your operating model, or all of the above.

Question 20

Who are Armstrong McGuire's individual programs designed for?

Accepted Answer

Our programs are built for nonprofit leaders at all stages — from emerging managers stepping into their first leadership role to seasoned executive directors preparing for what's next. If you're serious about your growth in the sector, there's a program designed for where you are right now.

Question 21

How do I know which program is right for me?

Accepted Answer

It depends on where you are and where you are heading. If you are in or building toward an executive role, a mastermind cohort is a strong fit. If you want to strengthen your mindset and manage stress more effectively, Positive Intelligence is the entry point. If you are an experienced leader looking for an opportunity to help an organization in transition, the Interim Management Institute is purpose-built for that path. Perhaps you an executive director looking to strengthen your fundraising skills in partnership will your development director: checkout Leadership Gifts School. Or if you have an early career fundraiser on your team, take a look at Emerging Leaders in Philanthropy. Still not sure — reach out. We'll have a short conversation and point you in the right direction.

Question 22

What's the time commitment for a typical program?

Accepted Answer

It varies. The Positive Intelligence program runs six weeks with short daily practices. Mastermind, Interim Management Institute, and Leadership Gifts School cohorts typically involve monthly group sessions plus some preparation. We design everything to be high-impact and realistic — we know your calendar is already full and we're not asking you to clear it.

Question 23

Are programs virtual, in-person, or hybrid?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the program. Some are fully virtual to accommodate leaders across the country. Others include in-person sessions, retreats, or gatherings. Each program listing includes specifics on format and schedule so you know what you're committing to before you sign up.

Question 24

Will I be grouped with peers at a similar career stage?

Accepted Answer

Yes, intentionally. Cohort composition matters to us. We curate groups so you're working alongside peers navigating similar challenges — not in a room where you feel out of place or unchallenged. The peer relationships that come out of these programs are consistently one of the most valuable outcomes participants describe.

Question 25

Can I participate if I'm between roles or in career transition?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — and for many leaders, a transition is exactly the right moment to make this kind of investment. Our programs can help you clarify your direction, sharpen how you present yourself, and build the connections that support your next chapter.

Question 26

Does my organization need to sponsor my participation?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Many participants fund their own development, and some are covered by their organizations. If you need help making the case to your board or executive director, we can give you the language and framing to do that.

Question 27

How are program fees structured?

Accepted Answer

Each program has its own fee structure, which is clearly outlined in the program listing. Some are flat enrollment fees, others are structured across the program timeline. We're always transparent about what's included — there are no surprises once you register.

Question 28

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Find the program that fits your goals and apply or register directly. Still not sure? We'll help you find the right fit. That first conversation is about understanding where you are and where you're headed — no pressure, no obligation.

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