In a city known for its entrepreneurial spirit and community-driven values, the City of Austin is once again investing in the people who make it thrive. This fall, the Economic Development Department is launching a powerful initiative to support nonprofit professionals and aspiring changemakers through its Nonprofit Fundamentals Week, running from October 7th through the 9th.

The program offers six no-cost courses designed to equip participants with the essential skills needed to launch, lead, and grow nonprofit organizations. Those who complete the full series will earn a Nonprofit Skills Certificate in December—an achievement that not only validates their expertise but also strengthens Austin’s nonprofit workforce.

Participants will dive into topics that are critical to nonprofit success:

• October 7:
  • Starting a Nonprofit in Texas
  • Simple Fundraising Strategies for Nonprofits
• October 8:
  • Create a Nonprofit Marketing Plan & Content Calendar
  • The Practice of Leadership for Nonprofit Directors
• October 9:
  • Intro to Bookkeeping for Nonprofits
  • Understanding Nonprofit Financial Reports

Courses are available both in person and online, ensuring accessibility for all interested individuals.

Since 2021, Austin’s Economic Development Department has offered educational programming to strengthen the city’s nonprofit ecosystem. For the first time, all classes are offered in a single week, creating an intensive and convenient learning experience.

The department partners with Distance Learning Media LLC, a trusted vendor that also provides year-round classes on small business topics. These ongoing offerings support Austin’s entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders in building sustainable organizations and expanding economic opportunity.

“Austin’s nonprofits and small businesses are at the heart of our city’s resilience and growth,” said Anthony Segura, Interim Director of the Economic Development Department. “Nonprofit Fundamentals Week gives attendees the chance to sharpen their skills in a focused, high-impact way, while our year-round classes with Distance Learning Media ensure that every aspiring entrepreneur and nonprofit professional has the tools to turn ideas into action.”

Registration is now open. To sign up and explore additional classes, resources, and low- to no-cost services for small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs, visit SmallBizAustin.org.