mission Matters Strengthening Nonprofit Board Cybersecurity Oversight: Part 2 February 09, 2026 Cybersecurity is now an essential element of responsible nonprofit governance. In part two of our series, we will take a look at practical strategies for boards to build a culture of cyber awareness, strengthen policies and controls, and prepare for potential incidents. Quick Takeaways Regular board engagement and scenario-based discussions build a strong culture of cyber awareness.Policies, controls, and clear resource allocation reduce vulnerabilities and strengthen organizational resilience.Practicing incident response and reviewing cyber expertise ensures the board is prepared when a crisis occurs. For today’s nonprofit boards, cybersecurity oversight is not optional, it is an essential part of fiduciary duty and organizational stewardship. Check out part 1 of our series where we uncover why cybersecurity is a critical governance responsibility for nonprofit boards and how leaders can translate oversight into effective strategies that protect mission, data, and reputation. In this second part, we will dive into building a culture of cyber awareness, crisis preparedness and more. Why this MattersA data breach or systems outage can delay programs, interrupt fundraising, hinder compliance, and strain staff capacity. Boards should ask:Which services or operations are most vulnerable?How quickly can leadership respond to an incident?What is the likely impact on donors, beneficiaries, and volunteers?These questions guide informed decisions about resources, preparedness, and policy. “Cybersecurity is now an essential element of responsible nonprofit governance. Boards that integrate cyber oversight into their culture, strengthen their literacy, and ensure leadership has the tools and accountability needed to protect their organization are better positioned to safeguard mission, reputation and community.” - Sandy Ross Building a Culture of Cyber AwarenessBoards play a critical role in modeling a culture of preparedness. Strong practices include:Regular briefings from internal IT leaders or external cybersecurity advisorsScenario-based discussions that translate technical risks into operational impactsPeriodic training that builds board-level familiarity with cyber risk conceptsCyber awareness should be part of board orientation and reinforced through ongoing education.Ensuring Strong Policies, Controls, and ResourcesSmall oversights can create vulnerabilities and Boards should require evidence that the organization maintains:Updated systems, secure networks and appropriate access controlsCurrent cybersecurity policies and documented proceduresRobust vendor and third- party risk oversightAdequate budget for technology, staff training, and incident responseEven small nonprofits need baseline safeguards. Board oversight ensures leadership has the resources and accountability to maintain them.Crisis Preparedness: The Ultimate TestA well-designed incident response plan is only effective if it is practiced. Boards should confirm that:A current, comprehensive incident response plans existsPlans are regularly reviewed and updatedTabletop exercises are conducted to test roles, communication, and decision-makingLeadership can demonstrate readiness to act quickly under pressure.Board participation in these exercises strengthens governance and clarifies the board’s role during a crisis. Does the board have the right cyber expertise?Cyber expertise is increasingly recognized as a core board competency. Options for strengthening governance include:Recruiting a trustee with cybersecurity or IT risk expertiseProviding targeted education for existing board membersEngaging external advisors when internal resources are limitedA blended approach often works best, ensuring that cyber literacy is both present and continuously reinforced.Be sure to download our Cybersecurity Quick Reference Guide for Board Members.
