TAKE THE GUESSWORK OUT OF FUNDRAISING WITH...
Basic Online Advancement Training (BOAT)
Turn your organization's potential for impact into REALITY.
Get everything you need to be successful with fundraising.
☑ Training ☑ Coaching ☑ Accountability
Can you answer YES to any of these questions?
Do you want to grow your nonprofit's fundraising efforts but have NO IDEA where to start?
Are you new to fundraising, and need to understand how it all fits together?
Do you have a nonprofit that has been successful, but for some reason you're feeling stuck?
Do you want direct access to fundraising experts who can help with your vision articulation, communications plans, development plan, and ANY questions you may have?
Are you convinced you need an organized fundraising program, but aren't quite sure what steps to take?
If you answered YES to ANY of the questions above, we invite you to join Basic Online Advancement Training and take your nonprofit's impact to the next level!
What does BOAT include?
The Fundraising Blueprint
Learn the essentials of starting and building fundraising programs with 12 modules covering the entire spectrum of development.
There is a science to fundraising. These lessons will show you the best practices that have been proven to work.
This includes more than 50 online video lessons carefully planned and designed by Petrus Development's expert fundraising coaches to help you understand every level of the fundraising process.
Samples and Templates
Skip the hassle of starting from scratch.
Jump-start the implementation of course materials with dozens of samples and templates from a variety of nonprofits.
This includes everything you need to kick off your development efforts, from sample Case Statements to editable newsletter and appeal letter templates.
Expert Courses
You will learn:
- How to craft and communicate your vision effectively
- How to get your first donations
- How to qualify potential major donors
- How to approach major donors
- Where to focus your time for the most effective fundraising efforts
Your Instructors & Guides
Andrew N. Robison
Andrew has been in fundraising since 2005. He has worked in campus ministry and university settings and now serves as president and owner of Petrus Development. Andrew is also an adjunct professor in the University of Mary Institute for Catholic Philanthropy.
Sarah Rose
Sarah has been in the development field since 2010. She has fundraised for Catholic Charities of Central Texas and for the Dripping Springs Public Library. Additionally, Sarah has worked with many nonprofits as a consultant for Petrus Development.
Rhen Hoehn
Rhen has worked in development since 2015. As development director for St. Albert the Great University Parish at Michigan Tech, he oversaw the $3.14M Multiply the Mission campaign. Rhen has been a consultant for Petrus Development since 2018.
FALL 2025 BOAT SCHEDULE
The next BOAT cohort is anticipated to begin in October, 2025.
Cohort Session Options:
Please check back for Fall 2025 Cohort options.
Hear from some of our AMAZING Alumni!
“Solid information, networking perks, trusted guides, proven methods. BOAT is a such a testament for today's Catholics living in the world and still working for the Church. ”
-Catherine Richard
College Missions Co.
"BOAT has given me a lot of knowledge about development in order to get things going in the right direction. I've gone from knowing very little about development, to being confident in setting up a good framework to move forward with a development plan."
-AJ Kingsmore
Auburn Catholic Campus Ministry
“You don't know what you don't know. The course will make that known to you. It will also give you more than enough to make considerably impactful changes in your fundraising practice.”
-Roy Saab
iSupport
“The BOAT lessons are extremely valuable and there is a lot of excellent information in the videos and PDFs. The examples, transcripts, and calendars are very helpful. The course material is absolutely outstanding, thorough, and comprehensive!”
-Michael Vento
Image of God Institute
“BOAT is more than what I was hoping for. The BOAT program has helped me to understand the process of forming relationships and building a case statement to present to our donors. It has exceeded my expectations.”
-Kim Allbee
The Catholic Center at the University of Vermont
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is BOAT for?
Will this work for my type of nonprofit?
What modules are included in the course?
What will I walk away with from BOAT?
What is the time commitment?
Do I have to attend the cohort calls?
Who is the right person at my organization to go through BOAT?
How long will I have access to the training modules?
Do you offer Enterprise pricing for groups?
How can I get other questions about BOAT answered?
Get on the BOAT Waitlist
Be the first to know when Basic Online Advancement Training opens for enrollment
Disclaimer:
The Basic Online Advancement Training (BOAT) program is designed to provide practical guidance, proven strategies, and personal mentorship to help participants strengthen their fundraising knowledge and skills. While the course offers tools and recommendations based on industry best practices and nonprofit fundraising principles, outcomes will vary depending on each participant’s effort, context, and organizational circumstances. Petrus Development does not guarantee specific fundraising results or increased giving as a result of participation in this program.
