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Join our BIPOC Board Leadership Program
Are you a BIPOC professional looking to expand your impact in the nonprofit sector? Our BIPOC Board Leadership Training Program is made for you.
Our program equip BIPOC professionals with the skills and knowledge needed for effective board governance. Learn from a stellar BIPOC faculty, sharing their experience on Nonprofit Governance, Strategic Leadership, Fundraising & Networking, and Nonprofit Finance.​
Additionally, we offer Board Placement Assistance to help graduates connect with organizations seeking to diversify their boards.
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REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR CLASS #5
Dates: May 7 & 9, 2026.
Training Dates & Location
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Thursday May 7th, 2026 (8am-5pm)
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Saturday May 9th, 2026 (8:30am-5pm)
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Location: San Luis Obispo, exact location to be shared upon enrollment​
Instructors & Modules
Cost
Enrollment cost: $450
Estimated training value: $3500 (difference covered by grants and sponsorhips)
Cost includes:
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Two Full-Days of Comprehensive Board Leadership Training
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Light breakfast and lunch included both days
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Expert-Led Training Modules
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Professional headshots
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Certificate of Completion
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Access to BoardConnect Platform with board placement opportunities (Pilot Phase)
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Access to Private Nonprofit Board Matching & Placement Mixers
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Alumni Access to Future Events
Registration Dates & Deadlines
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Registration opens: April 1, 2026
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Deadline for registration: May 2, 2026 (or once class meets its capacity, whichever happens first).
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Send questions to ed@diversityslo.org
Employer Sponsorship
Use this sample letter if your employer offer tuition reimbursement for leadership development training.
For training questions, employers can contact ed@diversityslo.org
DCSLOC Partial Scholarships
Scholarships are offered based on greatest need and program financials. Interested in receiving a scholarship? Email us at ed@diversityslo.org along with at least one letter of recommendation.
Approved scholarship grantees will be expected to donate volunteer hours to the program.
"At least 60% of all nonprofits in the nation report serving Black, Indigenous or People of Color (BIPOC), yet reports show that 84% of nonprofit board members identify as white."
Annie E. Casey Foundation
Nonprofit Board Matching & Placement Services
Our Nonprofit Board Matching and Placement Services connect dedicated individuals with meaningful board positions in local organizations.​
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Key Benefits:
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Access to BIPOC Board Leadership Graduates: Connect with a diverse pool of trained leaders from our esteemed program.
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Private Networking Opportunity: Access to exclusive mixers to meet potential board members. Application fee includes up to 2 representatives.
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Enhanced Expertise: Our recent graduates bring fresh perspectives and skills to help your organization thrive.
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Learn about upcoming trainings and networking opportunities!
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Nonprofit Application Details:
Symbolic Application Fee: $150.00 (One-time)
FAQs for Nonprofits
Strengthen your board with BIPOC professionals trained in board governance. Diversity Coalition San Luis Obispo does not guarantee board placement. We make every effort for successful matches based on a variety of interest areas. ​
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Does this program guarantee a new board member?
No. Diversity Coalition San Luis Obispo does not guarantee board placement. We make every effort for successful matches based on a variety of interest areas.
Is there a Placement Service Fee?
Yes, a one-time non-refundable placement assistance application fee of $150. Price might change.
Is there a training component for participating nonprofits?
We are working with our partner Spokes on developing training for nonprofits that can complement and support our program. Details to be announced.
What is the minimum requirement for board matching and placement assistance?
- Have Directors and Officers Liability Insurance or be fiscally sponsored by an organization with D&O Insurance.
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FAQs for BIPOC Professionals
Join other dynamic Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) professionals seeking to make a difference in San Luis Obispo County and aspiring to be good, effective board leaders.
Why join?
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Be a part of like-minded BIPOC professionals.
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Learn best practices in board governance, fundraising, nonprofit finance, and strategic management.
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Obtain a board leadership training certificate of completion.
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Network with nonprofit organizations seeking board members.
Is the training program only for people who live in San Luis Obispo County?
- No, we welcome individuals who are willing to travel.
How often is the training offered?
- We plan to offer two training sessions per year.
What are the completion requirements?
- Must attend both days and participate in group work.
Media Coverage
