VENICE, FL (July 28, 2026) – Gulf Coast Community Foundation (Gulf Coast) is now accepting applications for the Fall 2026 Gulf Coast Board Institute (GCBI), its board governance training program for new and experienced nonprofit board members. Applications are open through Monday, August 17.

The Institute provides interactive, high-level training designed to strengthen nonprofit board governance and help participants build the knowledge and practical skills needed for effective board service. The program is part of Gulf Coast's Invest in Incredible (i3) initiative, which supports nonprofit organizations by strengthening board leadership and organizational effectiveness.

"Strong nonprofit boards are essential for organizations to grow, adapt, and create lasting impact in our community," said Erin Minor, Vice President, Community Leadership, for Gulf Coast. "Through GCBI, participants gain practical governance knowledge they can immediately apply to better serve their organizations and our region."

Those selected for the Fall 2026 cohort will be notified on Friday, September 4. Cohort members will participate in four training sessions beginning Friday, October 2 at Gulf Coast's Venice headquarters, 601 S Tamiami Trail. Topics include nonprofit board governance fundamentals, ambassador responsibilities, financial and legal oversight, fundraising and resource development, and other best practices in board leadership, led by i3 consultants.

Participants are selected through a competitive application process with the goal of building a cohort with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Gulf Coast provides all training and materials at no cost in exchange for participants' commitment to champion strong board governance in their current and future nonprofit board service. Current nonprofit board members are encouraged to apply, though prospective board members will also be considered. Selected participants must commit to attending all four training sessions.

More information and the application are available at www.gulfcoastcf.org/GCBI. 

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About Gulf Coast Community Foundation

Since 1995, Gulf Coast Community Foundation has powered bold philanthropy and collaborative leadership to drive meaningful change across our region. Guided by values of authenticity, curiosity, collaboration, grit, and a trailblazing spirit, we work side-by-side with donors, partners, and community members to tackle our region’s biggest challenges and unlock its greatest opportunities. Together with our donors, we’ve invested more than $650 million in health and human services, education, civic & economic development, arts & culture, and the environment. Headquartered in Venice, with a second office in downtown Sarasota, Gulf Coast is nationally recognized for excellence, earning multiple “Best Nonprofits to Work For” honors and accreditation from Community Foundations National Standards®. Learn more at GulfCoastCF.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.