JOIN FULCRUM. LEAD FORWARD.
Fulcrum Nonprofit Leadership is an exclusive membership community built around senior nonprofit executives, with a commitment to elevating leadership excellence, creating greater impact, and advancing the for-purpose sector. We bring together experienced leaders in a curated environment, providing strategic thinking and thought leadership, meaningful peer connections, and meaningful and practical growth for those who carry the weight of executive leadership.
Apply today! We look forward to welcoming you into the Fulcrum family.
SIX ESSENTIAL BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP
1. Network with True Peers
You’re not just expanding your network — you’re joining a circle of peers who get it.
- Monthly Mixers (Virtual & In-Person)
- Private Chat Forums & Member Directory
- Regional Gatherings
- Collaborative Resource Sharing
2. Learning and Skill Development
Leadership is a journey, not a destination. Fulcrum equips you for what’s ahead.
- Access to VIP Speaker Sessions
- Annual Fulcrum Leadership Conference
- Continuing Education Opportunities
- Fulcrum 15: Small Group Cohorts for Deep Learning*
- Exclusive Tools, Templates & Resource Library
*Fulcrum 15 is an add-on program led by professional facilitators.
3. Discounts and VIP Invites
Get preferred access to world-class insights and development.
- Reduced Rates for Fulcrum’s Signature Events
- Exclusive Coaching Discounts
- Special Access to Partner-Led Events & Programs
4. Exclusive Content
Your membership comes with timely, relevant, and curated thought leadership.
- Monthly “Leader Bulletin” Newsletter
- VIP Speaker Recordings
- Two Members-Only White Papers Each Month
5. Nonprofit Leadership Concierge Service
Get real-time support for real-world leadership challenges.
- One-on-One Helpline for Executive Problem Solving
- Confidential, Peer-Informed Support
6. Elevate Your Professional Brand
Step into visibility and influence as a thought leader.
- Invitations to be Featured on Fulcrum Podcasts
- Publishing & Research Opportunities
- Participation in Advocacy Efforts
- Mentorship: Give and Receive Wisdom
THE MEMBER SELECTION PROCESS
At Fulcrum, we thoughtfully evaluate applicants and referrals who demonstrate both the capacity to benefit from our community and a willingness to contribute meaningfully to others.
We value nonprofit leaders from diverse backgrounds. Many did not arrive at their roles through traditional pathways, and often juggle multiple responsibilities—whether launching a new initiative, transitioning from the private sector, or leading within complex structures. We recognize the unique challenges nonprofit leaders face—challenges that often transcend the for-profit experience.
Eligibility is based on a holistic understanding of nonprofit leadership. While exceptions are considered, typical Fulcrum members meet these core criteria:
Hold a senior executive role in a recognized nonprofit
Lead a program, initiative, team, or area of strategic responsibility
Have strong professional references attesting to leadership capacity
Possess notable accomplishments, honors, or recognitions
Commit to continued nonprofit leadership for at least the next year
Please note: Meeting these criteria does not guarantee membership. Fulcrum reserves the right to decline applicants, especially those affiliated with lobbying organizations or entities that do not align with our values of equity, inclusivity, and service to the broader community.
All application information is confidential and reviewed solely by our internal membership selection team.
MEMBERSHIP DUES
Fulcrum membership is $600 annually (equivalent to $50 per month) and includes full access to all core member benefits.
Members also have the opportunity to enhance their experience through premium offerings available at an additional cost. These include the Fulcrum 15 Program, executive coaching, the Fulcrum Nonprofit Leadership Conference, and other specialized services designed to deepen your leadership journey.
Ready to take the next step? We invite you to begin your application by clicking the button below.
FULCRUM FELLOWS
Fulcrum believes all qualified nonprofit leaders should have the opportunity to join Fulcrum regardless of the ability to pay. This can often be challenging given the lack of organizational and/or personal resources to afford the annual member dues. To create the mechanism for nonprofit leaders to join and experience the incredible benefits of a Fulcrum membership who would not otherwise be in a position to afford it, Fulcrum created the Fulcrum Fellows program. Fulcrum Fellows are provided with a three-year membership experience, with all of the benefits provided to regular dues-paying members, at no cost. Importantly, the names of Fulcrum Fellows are not published, thus ensuring all members are treated with equity.
There are two mechanisms to become a Fulcrum Fellow.
The first method to become a Fulcrum Fellow is to apply and separately email Fulcrum at hello@fulcrumleader.com with a request to be considered for a Fulcrum Fellow membership experience. We ask that Fulcrum Fellow applicants include a 500 word or less response on why you believe you deserve to be a Fellow and an explanation for why your organization and/or you personally are unable to afford the annual membership dues. We have so few spaces available that we want to make sure that we reserve Fellows spots for the most deserving applicants.
The second method to become a Fulcrum Fellow is to apply and separately reach out to a local community foundation or other grant-making organization to secure your three-year membership experience as a mechanism for them to invest in your organization and your capacity to help that organization thrive.
