How Many Board Members Are Required for a Nonprofit in Virginia?

Nonprofit Board Membership Numbers

The appropriate nonprofit board size depends on your specific situation.

  • The IRS requires federal nonprofits to have at least three board members.
  • State requirements range from one to five. Comply with both federal and state rules.
  • Average boards have 15-16 members, but average doesn’t mean effective.

Strategically Composing Your Board

Think strategically when composing your board. Reflect diverse skillsets, experiences, and networks.

  • Boards should provide meaningful governance, fundraising and finance support functions, help with programs or advocacy.
  • Assess board weaknesses to determine ideal size and composition.
  • Consider organization size, mission, diversity needs, desired board role when deciding membership numbers.

Ensuring Board Effectiveness

  • Small boards under 15 risk member burnout from numerous duties. It also looks bad to funders. But avoid extremes—19+ is too many in most cases.

Leave a Comment