The Nonprofit Board Leadership Program (NBLP) connects Columbia Business School students, alumni, and nonprofit executives through mutually beneficial partnerships and resources. The program was created in 2006 in response to the high level of student interest in nonprofit board service and to nonprofit organizations’ growing need for board members with business training and experience.
A Year-long Partnership Program
This intensive NBLP fellowship matches teams of 2-3 students with a nonprofit partner for a year-long engagement, focusing on:
- a pro bono consulting project that invites students to creatively solve problems, identify opportunities, and explore their potential impact in a nonprofit setting; and
- exposure to board leadership through observation of board meetings and mentorship from a board member (typically a CBS alum or friend of the school).
Through these year-long projects and mentorship opportunities, students are encouraged to engage deeply with their partner nonprofit, provide high-impact strategic recommendations, and envision a role in nonprofit board leadership. Nonprofit leaders and Board Mentors simultaneously gain valuable insights and meaningful relationships with the next generation of board leaders.
More information about the partnership program can be found on the program structure and timeline and FAQ pages. For detailed examples of past project collaborations, visit the NBLP projects page.
The application for 2024-25 nonprofit partners is now open and will close on August 15.
The application for 2024-25 student fellows will open in September. Information about this program is circulated at Student Clubs Association Day, at an information session in September, and via email.
Nonprofit Board and Volunteer Showcase Opportunities
To support alumni and student goals, the Tamer Institute also facilitates nonprofit board and volunteer connections year-round through Showcase events and other resources like our 2024 Online Directory. To receive updates about future Showcase events, board, and volunteer opportunities, please join our mailing list.