The Case for the Fractional CDO

Karen Cochran • Dec 06, 2023

Looking for a short-term solution and sustainability?

Far too often, development organizations can’t bridge the gap between a “big idea” and getting it done because of turnover, vacancies, or budget limitations—and that means leaving money on the table in an ever-competitive philanthropic world.


That’s why so many strategic plans collect dust on a shelf or ambitious goals aren’t met. It’s not because of a lack of intention. It’s a lack of intentionality in how to achieve them.

Closing the Gap

It’s pointless to pay for sophisticated assessments and philanthropic plans if your team and organization can’t execute them. Instead, your organization’s sustainability lies in closing the gap between strategy and capacity—so your team has the knowhow, bandwidth, and perspective to succeed.


For nonprofits struggling with resource or talent shortcomings, one clear solution is the Fractional CDO to provide the coaching and expertise that build your team’s capacity to excel.

What is a Fractional CDO?

A seasoned development professional who acts as a mentor and thought partner to your leadership and development team, providing strategic expertise and coaching on a part-time or project basis. This cost-effective and flexible solution gives you real-time, actionable strategies and improved processes to deliver immediate results that grow your impact and culture of philanthropy.  Our approach always follows The MOST™ Philanthropy Model to build effective, resilient, and sustainable fundraising capacity.

'Embracing Change'

The majority of organizations that fall short of implementing change initiatives do so because they get pulled into urgent and immediate tasks that abound in the nonprofit world. That is why your leadership’s ability to embrace change is a determining factor in any successful engagement.


Before you even consider a Fractional CDO solution, you need to do an “attitude audit” of your organization. Are you committed to building a team where you:



  • Cultivate a culture of curiosity and willingness to embrace challenges and the unknown.
  • Empower and engage every individual to reach their full potential.
  • Seek frequent and continuous opportunities for improvement and shared ownership of success.

Ready to Learn More?

If your nonprofit is ready to close the gap between strategy and execution of "big ideas" to reach your goals, get in touch with me to discover what's possible in your organization.

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