The First-Time Development Director's Handbook

Download the free AI Companion Guide and use it with any book or handbook on the Strand Nonprofit Resources product page.



Becoming a development director for the first time can be exciting—and overwhelming. This practical handbook helps new fundraising leaders establish priorities, build productive relationships, organize fundraising systems and earn the confidence of senior management and the board. With realistic scenarios, planning tools, worksheets and a structured first-90-days approach, it provides a clear path from reacting to immediate demands toward building a sustainable and well-managed development program.