You attended a fantastic conference and learned about an AMAZING event fundraising idea that is PERFECT for your market and, more importantly, strategically fits your fund development plan. You (the valiant nonprofit director) have all of the tools you need except for ONE: Board Buy-In. As we all know, it can be difficult to change a fundraising event - especially one that has strong volunteer leadership and a sense of 'we've always done it this way.'    We've been there! Here are a few steps you can take to get you board engaged and even excited about a new fundraising idea.  

First.. Find THAT Board Member:  
Who comes to mind as the natural influencer in the group? Who does the board respect, appreciate, like? Who is modern, hip and even tech-savvy? Anyone popular on social media? Who has the latest iPhone in their pocket? This is the profile of the perfect board member to meet one-one and gain his/her early adoption. Among the steps you can take, some include the following: 

Send Resources.   As you consider a new idea, forward them the resources you received or include them in demo calls. Let them know their input is valued & necessary.
Listen. You need to have their buy-in. Events and technology do not raise money-- people do. Talk about their concerns & listen if they are not on board.
Let Them Pitch It.  Once you had cultivated THAT board member and included them in the decision-making process, have them explain the idea to the rest of the group. When an influential member of the group pitches the idea to the larger board the buy-in will be much stronger.  

Second...  Demonstrate the Value:  
Clearly explain why the new event concept or technology is in everyone’s best interest, especially those benefiting from your cause.

• Raising more money to support clients/programs
• Acquiring new donors
• Attracting a different demographic
• Collecting valuable donor data to foster relationships
• Demonstrating an organizational culture of modernity, innovation, and forward-thinking
• Enhancing the guest experience
• Aligning with your mission or connecting with program recipients via the fundraiser

Armed with clear practical reasons like these, your board can overcome the fear of implementing something new or improved.   

Third...  Reduce Discomfort:  
People tend to resist the unknown, especially when it relates to a highly visible fundraising event and, even moreso, technology. Transparency and information will fill the unknown - more is better for your risk-averse crowd. Here's a quote by Henrietta Boggs, to arm you with some positive thoughts: "There are two types of people in the world. Those who see opportunity and do nothing and others who see the hill of opportunity and climb. I always choose to climb." Fortunately, half of the world is risk-averse and making your case will make you better at implementation.  

Fourth... Read #1 Again: 
We're not kidding. Few things can replace the strong voice of a current member of the board leading the way or, at a minimum, echoing your plans. Others will follow.