Top 11 Fundraising Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a fundraising manager to demonstrate their level of knowledge and expertise in the field. They provide evidence that the individual has taken the time to gain additional qualifications, which can be attractive to potential employers. Certifications also give a fundraiser access to networks of peers who can offer advice and support, as well as providing an opportunity to stay up-to-date with industry trends and regulations. Furthermore, certifications allow fundraisers to stand out from the competition by showing potential employers they have what it takes to succeed in the role.

The purpose of the article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Fundraising Managers and explain how they can benefit a fundraising manager's career.

What are Fundraising Manager Certifications?

Fundraising manager certification is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to become successful fundraising managers. This certification is offered by professional associations, such as the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), and can be obtained through online or in-person coursework.

The primary benefit of obtaining fundraising manager certification is that it provides individuals with an understanding of best practices in fundraising management and how to effectively manage fundraising campaigns. By understanding the fundamentals of fundraising management, certified professionals are able to develop successful strategies for increasing donations, managing donor relationships, and creating sustainable funding sources. Additionally, certified professionals are able to demonstrate their commitment to the profession by publicly displaying their credentials.

In addition to demonstrating expertise in the field, having this certification can also help individuals obtain jobs in fundraising management positions. It demonstrates that they have a solid understanding of best practices and can be trusted with managing large-scale campaigns and working with donors. Certified professionals may also have an advantage when applying for leadership roles in non-profit organizations as well as consulting positions related to fundraising management.

Overall, obtaining fundraising manager certification can be extremely beneficial for those looking to work in the field of fundraising management or increase their current level of expertise within the profession. With this certification, individuals can demonstrate their commitment to professionalism while also gaining access to job opportunities which may not otherwise be available.

Pro Tip: Invest in a fundraising manager certification program to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices. This will help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful in your role as a fundraising manager.

Related: What does a Fundraising Manager do?

Top 11 Fundraising Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Fundraising Managers today.

1. Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE)

Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) is an international certification program that recognizes professional excellence in fundraising. It is designed to help fundraisers demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field of philanthropy and increase their credibility with employers, donors, and other stakeholders. The CFRE credential is awarded after a successful completion of the CFRE International Examination, a comprehensive assessment of knowledge in the areas of fundraising management, ethics, diversity, and law.

The CFRE exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering six core competency areas: Relationship Building & Stewardship; Strategic Planning; Resource Development; Volunteer Involvement; Leadership & Management; and Accountability & Measurement. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have a minimum of five years’ paid professional experience in fundraising or related fields within the past 10 years.

The cost for taking the CFRE exam varies depending on when you register for it. The standard fee is $385 USD for members of CFRE International or $485 USD for non-members. There are also discounts available for groups and those who qualify as low-income earners.

It typically takes up to four weeks to get your results from the CFRE Exam once you have taken it. After successfully passing the exam, you will receive your official certificate from CFRE International within four to six weeks.

2. Certified Nonprofit Accounting Professional (CNAP)

Certified Nonprofit Accounting Professional (CNAP) is a professional certification offered by the National Association of Certified Public Accountants (NACPA). It is designed to recognize the specialized skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage the financial operations of nonprofit organizations.

To obtain the CNAP certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience in nonprofit accounting or finance, including at least two years of managerial experience. Applicants must also complete an online application and pass a comprehensive exam administered by NACPA. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as budgeting, financial reporting, internal controls, taxation, and auditing.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on whether you are a member of NACPA or not. For non-members, the fee is $595; for members, it is $495. The cost includes all study materials and practice exams.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official CNAP designation within four weeks. You will then be required to maintain your certification by completing continuing education credits every three years in order to remain certified.

3. Certified Fundraising Professional (CFP)

Certified Fundraising Professional (CFP) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and skill in the field of fundraising. The CFP designation is awarded by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) after completion of an extensive application process.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain criteria, including having three years of full-time fundraising experience, completing at least 15 hours of continuing education in fundraising topics, and passing an exam. The exam covers topics such as donor relations, ethical standards, legal compliance, financial management, and marketing.

The application process takes approximately six to eight weeks to complete. Applicants must submit an application form with supporting documentation such as a resume and letters of recommendation from colleagues or supervisors. Once approved for certification, applicants are required to pay a fee which varies depending on AFP membership status.

The cost for non-members is $395 USD while members pay $295 USD. Additionally, there is an annual renewal fee of $95 USD for both members and non-members alike. Certified professionals are also required to complete 10 hours of continuing education every two years in order to maintain their CFP designation.

4. Certified Fundraising Manager (CFM)

Certified Fundraising Manager (CFM) is a professional designation that recognizes fundraising professionals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to manage successful fundraising operations. It is an advanced certification offered by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP).

The CFM process requires applicants to pass a comprehensive exam that covers all aspects of fundraising management. The exam consists of four sections: Fundraising Principles and Practices, Financial Management, Communications and Relationship Building, and Professionalism. Applicants must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience in fundraising management.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the CFM program depending on how much time you are able to devote to studying for the exam. To get started, applicants must first apply for membership with AFP and then register for the CFM program. Once registered, applicants will receive study materials from AFP which they can use to prepare for the exam.

The cost of taking the CFM exam varies depending on your AFP membership status. For non-members, it costs $450; for members it costs $350; and for student members it costs $250.

5. Certified Grant Writing Professional (CGWP)

A Certified Grant Writing Professional (CGWP) is an individual who has been trained and certified to write grants for organizations, businesses, and other entities. This certification is offered by the Grant Professionals Certification Institute (GPCI), which is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing professional development opportunities for grant writers.

The CGWP certification requires applicants to have at least two years of grant writing experience, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in any field. In addition, applicants must pass an online exam that covers topics such as grant research, proposal writing, budgeting, and evaluation. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 4 hours to complete.

To get the CGWP certification, applicants must pay a fee of $395 USD. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official CGWP certificate within 8 weeks.

In order to maintain the CGWP credential, individuals must complete 12 continuing education credits every three years in order to stay up-to-date on best practices in the field of grant writing.

6. Chartered Institute of Fundraising Diploma in Fundraising Management

The Chartered Institute of Fundraising Diploma in Fundraising Management is a professional qualification for those who wish to pursue a career in fundraising. It is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of fundraising, enabling practitioners to work confidently and effectively in the sector.

The Diploma takes approximately 8-12 months to complete depending on your chosen study route. You can either take it as an online course or attend face-to-face classes at one of the Chartered Institute’s accredited training providers. The course covers topics such as developing effective strategies, managing relationships with donors, monitoring and evaluation, legal and ethical considerations, financial management and more.

To get the Diploma you must demonstrate that you have achieved the learning outcomes by completing assignments, exams and/or other assessments set by your chosen provider. Once you have successfully completed all elements of the course you will be awarded with the Diploma in Fundraising Management from the Chartered Institute of Fundraising.

The cost of completing the Diploma varies depending on which provider you choose but typically ranges from £2,000 - £3,500.

7. Association of Fundraising Professionals Certificate in Principles of Fundraising

The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Certificate in Principles of Fundraising is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of the core principles and concepts of fundraising. The certificate program is designed to provide fundraisers with a comprehensive understanding of the field, from basic fundraising techniques to ethical considerations and legal compliance.

The AFP Certificate in Principles of Fundraising consists of six courses, each taking approximately two hours to complete. The courses cover topics such as donor relations, fundraising planning, research and analysis, proposal writing, stewardship and evaluation. Upon completion of all six courses, participants will receive an official AFP Certificate in Principles of Fundraising.

To obtain the certificate, individuals must register for the program through the AFP website and pay a fee. The fee for the entire program is $450 USD per person. Once registered, participants can access their online course materials at any time and complete them on their own schedule.

Upon successful completion of all six courses within one year after registration, participants will be awarded their AFP Certificate in Principles of Fundraising by mail or email.

8. Association of Professional Fundraisers Certificate in Advanced Fundraising

The Association of Professional Fundraisers Certificate in Advanced Fundraising is an internationally recognized professional qualification for fundraisers. It is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of fundraising, and to equip fundraisers with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to work effectively in the field.

The course takes approximately one year to complete, and consists of four modules. The first module introduces the main concepts of fundraising and provides an overview of the legal framework within which fundraising operates. The second module covers topics such as donor motivation, relationship building, and stewardship. The third module focuses on developing effective fundraising strategies and campaigns. Finally, the fourth module looks at evaluation techniques and how to measure success in fundraising activities.

In order to obtain the certificate, you must successfully complete all four modules as well as a final exam. You can take the modules either online or through face-to-face training sessions provided by APF-accredited trainers around the world.

The cost for obtaining the certificate depends on where you are taking it from – it can range from around £500–£1,500 depending on your location.

9. Association of Professional Fundraisers Certificate in Major Gifts and Planned Giving

The Association of Professional Fundraisers Certificate in Major Gifts and Planned Giving is a professional certification program designed to equip fundraisers with the knowledge and skills needed to successfully cultivate, solicit, and steward major gifts and planned giving. This certification program is offered by the Association of Professional Fundraisers (APF), an international professional association dedicated to advancing the field of fundraising.

The program consists of three parts: an online course, a self-study guide, and an exam. The online course covers topics such as major gift strategies, planned giving techniques, donor relations, solicitation methods, and more. The self-study guide provides additional resources for further study on each topic covered in the course. Finally, participants must pass an exam to receive their certificate.

The program takes approximately six months to complete depending on how quickly you are able to work through the material. You can take as long or as little time as you need to complete the coursework and prepare for the exam.

To get started with this certification program, you must first become a member of APF. Membership costs $100 per year for individuals or $150 per year for organizations. After becoming a member, you will have access to all materials necessary for completing the certificate program including the online course, self-study guide, and exam registration information.

Once you have completed all three components of the program (online course + self-study guide + exam), you will be eligible to receive your Certificate in Major Gifts & Planned Giving from APF. The cost of this certification is $200 plus any applicable taxes or fees associated with taking the exam.

10. Association of Professional Fundraisers Certificate in Corporate and Foundation Relations

The Association of Professional Fundraisers Certificate in Corporate and Foundation Relations is a professional certification program designed to help fundraising professionals develop their skills in cultivating relationships with corporate and foundation donors. The program includes both online and in-person training, as well as an assessment exam.

The program takes approximately four months to complete, depending on the individual's availability. It begins with an online self-assessment that helps participants identify areas of strength and weaknesses related to corporate and foundation relations. This is followed by an online course that covers topics such as donor prospecting, grant writing, proposal development, relationship building, stewardship, reporting, and more. Finally, participants take a comprehensive assessment exam that tests their knowledge of the topics covered in the course.

To get the certificate, individuals must successfully complete the self-assessment, coursework, and assessment exam with a passing grade of 70% or higher. Upon successful completion of the program requirements, individuals are awarded the Certificate in Corporate and Foundation Relations from the Association of Professional Fundraisers.

The cost for this certification program varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of the Association of Professional Fundraisers. For members it costs $495 USD; for non-members it costs $595 USD.

11. International Association for Research on Service-Learning and Community Engagement Certification Program

The International Association for Research on Service-Learning and Community Engagement (IARSLCE) Certification Program is a professional development program that provides recognition to individuals who demonstrate excellence in the field of service-learning and community engagement. The program was created to recognize the hard work, dedication, and commitment of those working in the field.

The IARSLCE Certification Program consists of four levels: Certified Service-Learning Practitioner (CSLP), Certified Service-Learning Professional (CSLP), Certified Service-Learning Expert (CSLE), and Certified Service-Learning Master (CSLM). Each level requires an increasing amount of knowledge and experience in the field. To obtain certification at any of these levels, applicants must complete a series of online courses, pass written exams, and submit a portfolio demonstrating their knowledge and experience.

The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the individual’s experience level and how quickly they progress through the courses. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete all requirements for certification.

To get certified, applicants must first register with IARSLCE by submitting an application form along with payment for registration fees ($50 USD). Once accepted into the program, applicants will receive access to course materials and exams. After completing all required courses and passing all exams, applicants must submit a portfolio demonstrating their knowledge in service-learning and community engagement. The portfolio should include evidence such as publications or presentations related to service-learning or community engagement projects that have been completed or are currently underway.

The cost for certification varies depending on which level is being sought after; however, all levels require payment of registration fees ($50 USD) as well as course fees ($150-$300 USD per course). Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with travel expenses for attending conferences or workshops related to service-learning or community engagement.

Do You Really Need a Fundraising Manager Certificate?

Whether or not you need a fundraising manager certificate depends largely on your goals and the requirements of the job you are seeking. If you are looking to move into a more senior role in fundraising management, a certificate can help demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to the field. It can also provide evidence that you have taken the time to learn about best practices in fundraising and understand how to apply those principles effectively.

On the other hand, if you are already experienced in fundraising management or have been working in this field for some time, then a certificate may not be necessary. Employers will likely appreciate your experience and skillset more than any formal credential.

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide whether or not getting a fundraising manager certificate is worth your time and money. Consider what kind of jobs you are interested in, what kind of skills and knowledge they require, and what kind of qualifications they prefer applicants to have before making your decision.

Related: Fundraising Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Fundraising Manager Certifications

1. What is a Fundraising Manager Certification?

A Fundraising Manager Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates advanced knowledge and skills in the field of fundraising. This certification is offered by various organizations, including the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), and covers topics such as donor relations, grant writing, and financial management.

2. How do I become certified as a Fundraising Manager?

In order to become certified as a Fundraising Manager, you will need to complete an approved certification program or course. Most programs require applicants to have at least two years of experience in the field of fundraising prior to applying for the certification. Additionally, you will need to pass an exam administered by the certifying organization in order to receive your certification.

3. What type of jobs can I get with a Fundraising Manager Certification?

With a Fundraising Manager Certification, you can pursue career opportunities in nonprofit organizations, government agencies, educational institutions, and other organizations that rely on fundraising activities. Some job titles include Development Director, Grant Writer, Donor Relations Manager, Campaign Director, and Special Events Coordinator.

4. How much does it cost to get a Fundraising Manager Certification?

The cost of obtaining a Fundraising Manager Certification varies depending on the certifying organization and the type of program or course chosen. Generally speaking, fees range from $500-$2,000 USD per program or course.

5. Is there an expiration date for my Fundraising Manager Certification?

Yes – most certifications must be renewed every two years in order to remain valid. Renewal typically requires completing additional training courses or exams related to fundraising best practices and ethics.