Is your governance ready for 2026? See what you might be missing

As we step into 2026, our Regulations Outlook explores key compliance priorities and governance shifts that will define the year ahead. Pair that with insights from our 2026 trends for nonprofits blog, and you’ll have a clear view of what’s next — from AI transformation to heightened transparency expectations. Staying informed is the first step toward future-ready governance.

Come learn more about these and upskill on agentic AI at Elevate 2026! This year’s program is packed with sessions designed to help nonprofit administrators and leaders strengthen governance and leverage AI on BoardEffect to navigate challenges with confidence. From practical workshops to thought-provoking discussions, Elevate offers something for every attendee. Here’s a peek at the program and register before January 23 to save $200 with our early bird rate.

How approval workflows and certified e-signatures can help you be audit-ready and compliant

Approval workflows and certified e-signatures on BoardEffect help you to create audit-ready evidence. Customizable, ordered workflows route policies, packets and filings for review, with every action timestamped and captured, while certified digital signatures can be used to evidence authorization and oversight. The built-in approvals trail helps prove proper review and adoption processes during audits or inquiries, demonstrating due diligence.

Approvals can be applied to meeting materials and compliance documents, so decisions, signoffs and records live in one place. Combine approvals history with BoardEffect’s reporting and audit trail capabilities to show training completion, attendance, adoptions and more for regulators or funders.

How OrthoVirginia moved to legally compliant electronic voting boosting confidentiality and accelerating results without physical affidavits

To boost confidentiality and speed, OrthoVirginia transitioned from physical affidavits to legally compliant electronic voting on BoardEffect. This move eliminated manual processes and ensured secure, streamlined decision-making. With OrthoVirginia now conducts votes digitally, protecting sensitive information, meeting legal standards and delivering results in record time.

“Previously, collecting votes via e-mail and affidavits was time-consuming and inefficient. Now, we have results within 24 hours thanks to BoardEffect,” shares Melissa Wilmoth, Chief of Staff to OrthoVirginia’s Chief Executive Officer.

Read the full story here

News and events

[WEBINAR] The future of governance for mission-driven organizations

This timely conversation with Kira Ciccarelli, Senior Research & Programs Manager, Diligent Institute; and Nicolette Grams, Partner, Conscient Strategies explored how technology and AI are reshaping governance for mission-driven organizations. Our expert panel talked practical applications, risks, opportunities, and what boards should prioritize heading into 2026. Catch it now on-demand here.

More webinars, all available to watch on demand:

• Beyond the budget: Smarter financial and risk oversight
• Getting your nonprofit board on the same page: Strategies for alignment, communication & collaboration
• Developing high-impact boards: Skills, strategies & tools you need
• Navigating AI risks & governance: What your nonprofit board should know

More nonprofit events for your calendar for the rest of the year.

Upcoming seasonal events to celebrate with your board

Seasonal events aren't just for the calendar, they help foster community engagement, build trust, educate the community and raise morale.

We’ve compiled a handy list of special events to make it easy to plan ahead and keep your board aligned with key moments throughout the year. Download your free 2026 calendar today and start planning.

Here are some upcoming events to celebrate with your board and take action on:

It’s the 100-year anniversary of Black History Month, an opportunity to promote diversity and acceptance. Here are 3 ideas to celebrate this month:

• Host an educational webinar or panel and invite Black leaders, historians, or community advocates to share insights on contributions and challenges. This fosters learning and dialogue around equity and inclusion.
• Launch a social media story series to highlight influential Black figures in your sector — past and present — through posts, videos or infographics.
• Create a Community Engagement Project and partner with local schools or organizations to offer mentorship programs, scholarships or workshops that empower Black youth and promote leadership opportunities.

4 February: Celebrate USO Day by showing your support for those who serve, your nonprofit can help strengthen the community that keeps military personnel and families connected.

11 February: International Day of Women and Girls in Science recognizes the lack of gender equity for girls and women in scientific fields. It’s an opportunity to recognize the contributions of women to the fields of STEM. Consider hosting a STEM spotlight event with a webinar or panel featuring women scientists and engineers from your community. Share their stories, challenges and advice to inspire girls and young women to pursue STEM careers.

27 February: For World NGO Day, highlight your organization’s achievements and the difference you’ve made in your community through social media posts, videos or a blog. Use the hashtag #WorldNGODay to join the global conversation.

Celebrating our Community Champions

Each month, we recognize individuals who go above and beyond in their commitment to mission-driven governance. Visit our blog to meet our Community Champions and learn how they’re making a difference.

Know someone who deserves recognition? Nominate them today!

Meet Jess Lasota

This month, we’re proud to highlight a team member whose genuine passion for client success and building strong connections inspires us every day.

After nearly five years with a Pittsburgh-based mutual fund company and a career that’s spanned industries like tech and beauty, Jess made the leap to Diligent. In just over three years, she’s become a key member of the BoardEffect support team, helping clients and colleagues alike. Jess provides training, leads client meetings and supports the Customer Success team by modeling the values that drive us forward.

Learn more about Jess and what she enjoys doing outside of work.

What's trending

Our pick of the newest and most popular items on our blog this month:

1. 20 years of BoardEffect: Reflections on the past, focused on the future
2. 5 more features driving governance efficiency with BoardEffect
3. What higher education leaders must know about regulations and risk today

Give your feedback and win!

How does your board handle regulations? Take this month’s quick survey for your chance to win a $50 gift card!