Executive Certificate in Religious Fundraising

September 16-18, 2025

NC Rural Center is partnering with Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy’s Lake Institute on Faith and Giving to offer the Executive Certificate in Religious Fundraising (ECRF).

This program allows students the opportunity to earn a certificate in fundraising as they explore motivations for giving in the nonprofit sector. The class begins with a required two and half days in-person teaching sessions in Raleigh, NC, hosted by NC Rural Center, one follow up zoom call, and ends with a practical application project.

The Executive Certificate in Religious Fundraising provides the research, tools, and customized training to meet the growing needs of leaders in religious communities and fundraisers of faith-based organizations. The focus of the ECRF is on the cultural, organizational, and philanthropic practices unique to religious institutions. These practices in turn enable donors motivated by spiritual and religious values to experience the joy of generous giving.

Who should attend:

Religious leaders in faith-based organizations and institutions who wish to learn more about the spirituality of fundraising and gain a core foundation in fundraising principles.

Date and structure of program:

  • The class will meet beginning at noon on Tuesday, September 16 through noon on Thursday, September 18, 2025.
  • Location: NC Rural Center (4021 Carya Drive, Raleigh)
  • There will be one follow up zoom call, date October 16, 4-5 pm Eastern.
  • Asynchronous learning through the learning platform.

Cost:

  • The cost is $1,500. A deposit of at least $300 is required at the time of registration in order to reserve your spot. The remainder of your balance is due by August 15, 2025. Space in the program is limited to only 36 participants.
  • In the event a participant needs to cancel their registration for any reason, a full refund can processed if notice of cancelation is received no later than July 1, 2025. After that time, refunds will only be granted pending the ability to fill the vacated spot with another participant.

What’s Included:

  • Certificate Curriculum
  • Online learning platform
  • Continental breakfast will be provided on Wednesday and Thursday; and lunch will be provided Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

What’s not included:

REGISTER TODAY

Please contact Andrew Hudgins, Faith in Rural Communities Program Associate, at ahudgins@ncruralcenter.org. For information regarding the certificate program and final project requirements, please visit www.lakeinstitute.org/ecrf.