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    Fractional Operations

    Systems That
    Scale Your Impact

    Operational excellence that streamlines your work, strengthens your infrastructure, and frees your team to focus on mission—not admin.

    40%
    Reduction in administrative time
    8hrs
    Saved per week through automation
    3x
    Faster new staff onboarding

    Sound Familiar?

    Most nonprofit operations are held together with workarounds and willpower. These challenges are common—but they don't have to be permanent.

    The Daily Reality

    Critical processes live in one person's head—and they're about to go on vacation
    Systems don't talk to each other, so staff re-enters data across 3+ platforms
    Everyone's too busy firefighting to fix the processes causing the fires
    Compliance deadlines sneak up because there's no central tracking system
    New staff take months to get up to speed because nothing is documented
    Growth opportunities pass by because you're at operational capacity
    Board asks questions you can't answer quickly because data is scattered
    You've outgrown your systems but don't have time to research alternatives

    With Fractional Support

    Documented processes anyone can follow—with training materials included
    Integrated systems that sync automatically, eliminating duplicate data entry
    Someone dedicated to fixing and improving processes systematically
    Compliance calendar with automated reminders and accountability tracking
    Onboarding playbooks that get new staff productive in weeks, not months
    Operations that scale with your growth, not hold it back
    Real-time dashboards that answer board questions before they're asked
    Expert guidance on technology decisions without paying consultant fees

    Time Drain

    Staff spending 10+ hours per week on tasks that could be automated or streamlined

    System Fragmentation

    Data living in spreadsheets, email threads, shared drives, and multiple apps with no single source of truth

    Key Person Risk

    Institutional knowledge concentrated in one or two people, creating vulnerability when they're unavailable

    Scaling Bottlenecks

    Manual processes that worked at 50 clients now breaking down at 200—and you're aiming for 500

    Compliance Anxiety

    Uncertainty about whether you're meeting all regulatory requirements, with no systematic way to track

    Communication Gaps

    Information falling through cracks between departments, programs, and leadership

    Why We're Different

    This isn't corporate consulting—it's nonprofit-native operations expertise

    Mission-Sensitive Approach

    We understand that nonprofit operations aren't just about efficiency—they're about enabling mission delivery while respecting your culture and constraints.

    AI-Powered Optimization

    We use AI to accelerate process analysis, documentation, and automation—implementing solutions faster and more cost-effectively.

    Practical, Not Perfect

    We focus on improvements that work for your team today, not ideal-world solutions that require resources you don't have.

    Nonprofit Specialists

    Who We Work With

    We specialize in nonprofit operations across sectors—bringing relevant experience to your unique context.

    Health & Human Services

    Community health centers, mental health organizations, food banks, homeless services

    Education & Youth

    After-school programs, tutoring organizations, youth development, early childhood

    Environment & Conservation

    Land trusts, environmental advocacy, wildlife conservation, sustainability orgs

    Arts & Culture

    Museums, theaters, arts councils, cultural centers, public media

    International & Relief

    International development, disaster relief, refugee services, global health

    Housing & Community

    Affordable housing, community development, neighborhood organizations

    Advocacy & Policy

    Civil rights, policy research, legal aid, civic engagement

    Foundations & Funders

    Community foundations, family foundations, giving circles, fiscal sponsors

    Growing Organizations

    Budget: $500K–$5M

    You've outgrown startup mode but aren't yet large enough for a full operations team. You need systems that can scale with your next phase of growth.

    Building foundational systems
    Professionalizing operations
    Preparing for growth
    First-time process documentation

    Established Nonprofits

    Budget: $5M–$25M

    You have operations infrastructure but it needs optimization. Legacy systems, accumulated workarounds, and evolving needs create complexity.

    System modernization
    Process optimization
    Technology integration
    Operational efficiency gains

    Organizations in Transition

    Any size

    Leadership change, merger, rapid growth, new program launch, or major grant—transitions require operational support that existing staff can't provide alone.

    Leadership transitions
    Merger integration
    Major program launches
    Grant-funded scaling
    Interim Leadership

    Need a Fractional COO?

    Whether you're between operations leaders, growing beyond your current capacity, or need executive-level guidance without the full-time commitment, we can step in as your interim operations leader.

    Get strategic leadership that bridges gaps, builds infrastructure, and positions your organization for sustainable growth—without the 6-month search and six-figure salary.

    Executive team participation and board reporting
    Strategic planning and organizational development
    Cross-functional leadership and team alignment
    Change management and culture initiatives
    Vendor management and contract negotiations
    Budget oversight and financial operations

    Leadership Transition

    Your COO or operations director just left. We provide continuity while you search for the right permanent hire.

    Growth Stage

    You've outgrown your current operations but aren't ready to hire a full-time executive. We scale with you.

    Strategic Initiative

    A major project needs dedicated leadership—merger integration, new program launch, or systems overhaul.

    Board Requirement

    Your board wants operations leadership but budget constraints make a full-time hire unrealistic right now.

    Full-Service Operations

    Everything You Need to Run Better

    From process optimization to compliance, we cover the full spectrum of nonprofit operations. Each service area includes deep expertise and practical deliverables.

    Process Optimization & Documentation

    Streamline workflows, eliminate bottlenecks, and create systems that help your team work smarter instead of harder. We transform tribal knowledge into documented, repeatable processes that reduce errors and onboarding time.

    Common Engagements:

    Workflow audits that identify inefficiencies and quick wins
    Documentation systems that stay current and accessible
    Process improvement training for internal teams
    Continuous improvement frameworks (Plan-Do-Check-Act)
    Comprehensive workflow mapping and bottleneck analysis
    Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and process documentation
    Automation opportunities identification and implementation
    Cross-departmental coordination and handoff optimization
    Change management support and staff adoption strategies
    Quality assurance checkpoints and error prevention systems
    Capacity planning and resource allocation frameworks

    Technology & Systems Integration

    Get the right tools working together so your data flows seamlessly and your team has what they need. We help you build a coherent technology ecosystem that reduces manual work and improves data quality.

    Common Engagements:

    Technology needs assessment and gap analysis
    Vendor RFP development and selection support
    Implementation project management
    Post-implementation optimization and troubleshooting
    Technology stack assessment and optimization roadmap
    System integration and automated data synchronization
    CRM optimization (Salesforce, Bloomerang, Little Green Light)
    Tool selection, vendor evaluation, and contract negotiation
    Staff training programs and adoption support
    Data migration and cleanup projects
    Custom reporting and dashboard development

    Compliance & Risk Management

    Stay compliant, manage risk, and build the governance structures that protect your organization and mission. We create proactive systems so compliance becomes routine, not a last-minute scramble.

    Common Engagements:

    Annual compliance audit readiness assessments
    Policy template libraries customized for your organization
    Board orientation materials and governance training
    Crisis management and business continuity planning
    Policy development, review, and employee handbook creation
    Compliance calendar management with automated reminders
    Risk assessment frameworks and mitigation planning
    Board governance support and meeting preparation
    Insurance review and coordination with brokers
    State registration and filing compliance tracking
    Internal audit preparation and remediation support

    Financial Operations & Controls

    Strengthen financial management with better processes, reporting, and controls that give you confidence and clarity. We build the operational infrastructure that supports sound financial decision-making.

    Common Engagements:

    Month-end close process optimization
    Cost allocation methodology development
    Financial policy and procedure documentation
    Finance team workflow and capacity assessment
    Budget development process and monitoring systems
    Financial reporting dashboards and board packages
    Internal controls assessment and strengthening
    Grant financial management and compliance tracking
    Cash flow forecasting and reserve policy development
    Accounts payable/receivable process optimization
    Audit preparation and coordination with external auditors

    HR & People Operations

    Build the people infrastructure that attracts, develops, and retains great talent. We help you create employee experiences that reflect your mission and values while meeting compliance requirements.

    Common Engagements:

    Job description library development
    Interview process standardization
    Employee engagement survey design and analysis
    HR metrics dashboard creation
    HR process documentation and employee handbook development
    Onboarding and offboarding workflow optimization
    Performance management system design and implementation
    Compensation analysis and salary band development
    Benefits administration process improvement
    HR technology selection and implementation
    Compliance tracking for employment regulations

    Program Operations & Impact Measurement

    Align your program delivery with your strategic goals and build systems to measure what matters. We help you demonstrate impact while improving program efficiency.

    Common Engagements:

    Logic model and theory of change development
    Impact measurement framework design
    Funder reporting process streamlining
    Program evaluation support
    Program workflow mapping and efficiency analysis
    Outcomes tracking system design and implementation
    Data collection process optimization
    Reporting templates for funders and board
    Client/participant management system optimization
    Volunteer management process improvement
    Program scaling readiness assessment
    Technology Expertise

    Systems We Know Inside and Out

    We have deep experience with the nonprofit technology ecosystem—and we stay current so you don't have to.

    CRM & Donor Management

    Constituent databases, donor tracking, gift processing, acknowledgment workflows, and fundraising analytics

    Financial & Accounting

    General ledger, accounts payable/receivable, expense management, budgeting, and financial reporting

    Project & Work Management

    Task tracking, team collaboration, project timelines, resource allocation, and workflow automation

    Communication & Collaboration

    Email, calendaring, video conferencing, team messaging, file sharing, and scheduling tools

    Email & Marketing

    Email campaigns, newsletters, marketing automation, design tools, and social media management

    HR & People Operations

    Payroll, benefits administration, performance management, applicant tracking, and employee engagement

    Integration Capabilities

    We specialize in making your systems work together—eliminating duplicate data entry and creating seamless workflows across platforms. Our integration expertise includes:

    Native platform integrations and API connections
    Zapier and Make (Integromat) automation workflows
    Custom data synchronization solutions
    Data migration and cleanup between systems
    Webhook and trigger-based automation
    Reporting that pulls from multiple data sources

    What You'll Get

    Tangible deliverables that strengthen your infrastructure

    Operations Manuals

    Comprehensive documentation of all key processes, including step-by-step procedures, responsible parties, and decision criteria

    Process Maps & Workflows

    Visual diagrams that clarify how work flows through your organization, identifying handoffs, approvals, and potential bottlenecks

    Technology Roadmaps

    Prioritized recommendations for your tech stack with implementation timelines, budget estimates, and integration requirements

    Policy & Procedure Libraries

    Ready-to-use policies for governance, HR, finance, and compliance—customized to your organization and sector

    Dashboards & Reports

    Real-time visibility into organizational health, program metrics, and financial status for staff, leadership, and board

    Automation Workflows

    Automated processes using Zapier, native integrations, or custom solutions that eliminate manual work and reduce errors

    Training Materials

    Video tutorials, quick-reference guides, and training decks that help your team adopt new processes confidently

    Compliance Calendars

    Annual calendars tracking all regulatory deadlines, renewals, and requirements with automated reminder systems

    Onboarding Playbooks

    Structured onboarding programs for new staff with checklists, training schedules, and role-specific documentation

    How We Work Together

    A proven process that delivers results from week one

    1

    Operations Assessment

    We map your current processes, systems, and pain points to identify quick wins and strategic priorities.

    Week 1
    2

    Roadmap Development

    We create a prioritized improvement plan that balances quick wins with longer-term infrastructure investments.

    Week 2
    3

    Implementation

    We execute on priority improvements—documenting processes, configuring systems, and building automations.

    Ongoing
    4

    Sustain & Improve

    We train your team, monitor adoption, and continuously identify new opportunities for optimization.

    Monthly

    Flexible Engagement Models

    Choose the model that fits your needs. Every engagement is customized to your organization's specific context, budget, and goals.

    Monthly Retainer

    Fixed monthly investment for ongoing operational support and continuous improvement. Think of it as having a senior operations leader on your team without the full-time salary.

    Best For:

    Ongoing process optimization, system maintenance, compliance management, and organizations wanting steady operational improvement

    Predictable monthly investment
    Priority scheduling and rapid response
    Dedicated hours each month (typically 20-40)
    Flexible scope allocation based on current priorities
    Regular check-ins and progress reporting
    Continuous improvement mindset

    EXAMPLE ENGAGEMENTS:

    • Monthly process audits and optimization

    • Ongoing compliance monitoring

    • Technology support and troubleshooting

    • Staff training and capacity building

    Project-Based

    Defined scope, timeline, and deliverables for specific operational initiatives. Ideal when you know what you need and want certainty on investment.

    Best For:

    System implementations, process overhauls, compliance audits, automation builds, and one-time infrastructure projects

    Clear deliverables defined upfront
    Fixed project price (no surprises)
    Milestone-based payment schedule
    Defined start and end dates
    Comprehensive documentation included
    Knowledge transfer to your team

    EXAMPLE ENGAGEMENTS:

    • CRM implementation or migration

    • Operations manual development

    • Technology stack assessment

    • Compliance audit preparation

    Hybrid Model

    Combination of monthly retainer for baseline support plus project-based pricing for larger initiatives. The best of both worlds.

    Best For:

    Organizations with ongoing operational needs plus major infrastructure projects on the horizon

    Core retainer for ongoing support
    Project add-ons at discounted rates
    Maximum flexibility as needs evolve
    Seamless handoff between project and support
    Long-term partnership approach
    Strategic planning included

    EXAMPLE ENGAGEMENTS:

    • Base retainer + system implementation

    • Ongoing support + annual compliance prep

    • Monthly optimization + automation builds

    What's Always Included

    Regardless of engagement model, every client receives:

    Direct Access

    Email, Slack, or phone access to your fractional operations lead—no account managers in between

    Documentation

    All processes, decisions, and recommendations documented for your team's future reference

    Team Training

    Knowledge transfer to your staff so improvements stick after the engagement

    Progress Reporting

    Regular updates on what's been accomplished, what's in progress, and what's next

    All engagements begin with a discovery conversation to understand your needs. There's no commitment until we both agree on the right approach.

    Common Questions

    Answers to questions we hear most often from nonprofit leaders considering fractional operations support.

    How is fractional operations different from hiring a consultant?

    Consultants typically assess, recommend, and leave. We embed with your team, implement solutions alongside you, and stay engaged to ensure things actually work. You get the expertise without the expensive reports that sit on a shelf. We're accountable for results, not just recommendations.

    What tools and systems do you work with?

    We're experienced with the full nonprofit tech stack—donor management and CRMs, project and work management platforms, accounting and financial systems, HR and payroll tools, and productivity and collaboration software. If you use it, we can probably optimize it. If you're considering new tools, we can help evaluate options and manage the selection process.

    How do you handle change management?

    We know that new processes only work if people actually use them. We involve your team throughout the process, create practical training materials (not 50-page manuals), provide hands-on support during transitions, and check in to ensure adoption. Our goal is sustainable change, not just documentation that gets ignored.

    Can you help with our 990 and compliance requirements?

    We help ensure you have the systems and processes in place to stay compliant—from 990 preparation checklists and audit prep to state registration tracking and policy documentation. For actual filing and legal advice, we'll coordinate with your accountant or attorney. We make compliance manageable, not panic-inducing.

    What if we're in the middle of rapid growth?

    That's often the best time for operational support. We can help you build scalable systems before you hit capacity constraints, set up processes that work at 2x or 3x your current size, and ensure your infrastructure keeps pace with your impact. Growing pains are easier to prevent than to cure.

    How much does fractional operations support cost?

    It depends on your needs, scope, and engagement model. Monthly retainers typically start at a fraction of what you'd pay for a full-time operations manager—giving you senior-level expertise without the full-time salary, benefits, and management overhead. We'll discuss your specific situation and provide transparent pricing before any commitment.

    How quickly can you start, and what does onboarding look like?

    We can typically start within 1-2 weeks of agreement. Onboarding involves a discovery phase where we review your current systems, meet key team members, and understand your immediate priorities. By week two, we're usually already working on quick wins while planning longer-term improvements.

    What if we already have an operations person but they're overwhelmed?

    Fractional support works great as capacity augmentation. We can take on specific projects, provide expert guidance on complex initiatives, or handle specialized work that's outside your staff's expertise—letting your team focus on what they do best. We work with your people, not around them.

    How do you work with remote and hybrid teams?

    We're fully set up for remote collaboration. We use the communication tools your team already uses (Slack, Teams, email, video calls), work across time zones, and can join team meetings virtually. Many clients never meet us in person—the work gets done just as effectively.

    What happens when the engagement ends?

    Every engagement includes knowledge transfer—we document everything, train your team, and ensure you're not dependent on us. You'll have the processes, documentation, and know-how to maintain what we've built. Many clients continue with lighter-touch support, but you'll never be left stranded.

    Can you help us prepare for a leadership transition?

    Absolutely. We often help document institutional knowledge, create operations manuals, and build systems that don't depend on any single person—critical for transitions. We can also provide interim operational leadership while you search for permanent staff.

    How do you handle confidential and sensitive information?

    We treat your organization's data with the same care we'd want for our own. We sign NDAs, follow your data security protocols, and use secure systems for document sharing. We've worked with organizations handling sensitive donor information, client data, and personnel matters—discretion is standard practice.

    Ready to Run Better?

    Let's talk about how fractional operations support can streamline your work and scale your impact.

    No commitment required. Just a friendly conversation about your operational challenges.