In order to deliver the most impact for our non-profit clients, CCT selects the projects that it will sponsor on the following criteria:
Organization Type and Size:
* The organization must be a 501(c)3.
CCT generally works with mid-sized non-profits (with budgets of $500,000 or more) as they typically lack the resources of larger organizations who can afford to work with professional consultants, and are more stable than smaller groups that are struggling with financial issues that require significant board attention. This is a guideline, not an absolute requirement..
Location:
* To accommodate our volunteers, potential clients must be within the Metro Boston area (defined as within the I-495 loop).
* However, it does not need to be headquartered in Boston. We will work with the local chapter of a larger organization if that local chapter has significant autonomy.
Project Requirements:
* Importance:
o The issue to be addressed should be an important one for the long-term growth of the organization.
o It should be well defined and bounded, with specific topics to be addressed.
o It should focus on a management problem where business professionals with MBAs and varied work backgrounds will be able to assist. Projects requiring external or internal research and analysis are particularly appropriate.
o Note: CCT does not undertake projects to develop fundraising strategies, campaigns or activities, or assisting with board recruitment or development.
* Timing
o
The issue should be narrow enough in scope that it can be addressed within a 4-5 month period by a four to six-person team, spending in total about 60-75 hours per month.
o It should be addressable within CCT’s project cycle of January to May/June.
* Some common project types include:
o Marketing strategies
o Membership strategies
o Growth strategies
o Operational effectiveness
o Business plan development & feasibility analysis
o Organization design and resource usage
Client Requirements:
We have found through experience that the nature of the client organization has a significant impact on the outcome. Accordingly, we tend to look for organizations that have the following characteristics:
* A dynamic leader(s) who is excited about working with committed business people, and who is open to advice from third parties.
* An action-oriented organization seeking to continuously improve its performance.
* A Board that is highly engaged, and with a member who is willing to serve as a project champion.