As a nonprofit leader, you know that strategic planning is essential for setting clear goals, identifying priorities, and crafting a roadmap to achieve your mission. Hiring a strategic planning consultant can be a game-changer. These experts bring a wealth of experience, industry insights, and a structured approach to help organizations clarify their vision, set achievable goals, and chart a clear path forward. A skilled consultant doesn’t just facilitate discussions but brings new perspectives to the table, identifying opportunities and challenges that may not be immediately obvious to internal teams. For nonprofits especially, where resources are often limited, the right strategic plan can make all the difference in maximizing impact, optimizing resources, and securing long-term sustainability.

But one pressing question you might have is: how much will it cost to hire a strategic planning consultant?

The Cost of Nonprofit Strategic Planning Consultants

The cost of a nonprofit strategic planning consultant can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size and scope of the project, the consultant’s experience, the number of consultants, and your location. Typically, fees range from $5,000 to $20,000. In some instances, the cost can be $50,000 - $100,000 or more depending on the size of the organization, facilitation needs, and complexity of assessment. For example, a one-time facilitation of a planning retreat may cost $3,500 while a team of consultants working up to a year may cost $250,000. For many small and medium nonprofits, a strategic planning creation process over a three-to-four month-period can be conducted in the $20,000 -- $60,000 range.

According to the 2022 Nonprofit Consultant Salary Survey, which included 56 consultants, the average hourly rate for a nonprofit consultant in any focus is $148. The billing average specifically for strategic planning consultants was slightly lower at $132 per hour, with an annual average income of $105,728. Strategic planning emerged as the most popular service, commanding higher hourly rates. In comparison, grant writing had the lowest average rate.

The number of hours for a nonprofit strategic planning consulting contract can vary widely depending on the scope and complexity of the project. However, typical ranges are 50 to 200 hours. For a basic strategic plan or revising existing goals or addressing a couple specific challenges, plan for 20 to 50 hours. For a comprehensive strategic planning process, including stakeholder interviews, data analysis, and final plan development, the number of hours may be between 50 to 150 hours.

Larger nonprofits or complex projects may exceed 150 hours. Keep in mind that the more extensive engagement with staff, board members, and external stakeholders increases time. Tailoring the process to the nonprofit’s unique needs or challenges can also extend the hours needed.

Key Factors Influencing Cost

Several factors play a role in determining the cost of hiring a strategic planning consultant for your nonprofit:

1. Consultant’s Education: Consultants with master’s degrees charge the highest rates, followed by those with doctorates and bachelor’s degrees. This trend underscores the value placed on advanced education in the consulting field.

2. Demographics: The survey highlighted gender and racial disparities in consulting rates. Women consultants averaged $126 per hour, while men averaged $154 per hour. Additionally, white consultants billed higher rates than non-white consultants.

3. Location: If your nonprofit is located in a larger metropolitan area, you can expect to pay higher rates for a strategic planning consultant. The cost of living and demand for services in these areas often drive up consulting fees.

4. Experience: Interestingly, the survey found no correlation between years of nonprofit experience and the average hourly rate. This suggests that while experience is valuable, other factors such as specialization, reputation, and networking play a more significant role in determining cost.

What Services Will You Receive From a Nonprofit Strategic Planning Consultant?

Nonprofit strategic planning consultants offer a wide range of services designed to help your organization achieve sustainable growth. Their expertise typically includes:

• Developing short-term and long-term objectives

• Facilitating strategic retreats and meetings

• Identifying strategies to reach those objectives

• Assessing your organization’s capacity for change and growth

• Evaluating external factors that may impact your nonprofit

• Providing insights on gaining support from stakeholders such as board members and investors 

• Executive coaching

• Strategy implementation support

By working with a strategic planning consultant, your nonprofit can set a clear course of action for future growth and ensure that your resources are used effectively.

How to Find a Reputable Nonprofit Strategic Planning Consultant

Finding the right consultant is critical to the success of your strategic planning process. Here are a few tips to help you find a reputable consultant:

1. Referrals: The most popular way to find a consultant is through referrals from other nonprofits. Your network and existing relationships with colleagues can provide valuable insights into the value of strategic planning and working with consultants.

2. Directories: Many state nonprofit associations maintain directories of consultants who specialize in nonprofit services. These directories can be a good starting point for your search. Some examples include The Nonprofit Hive, Nonprofit.ist, Consultants for Good, and Consultants for Libraries.

3. Online Searches, Webinars, and Social Media: Searching online can also yield potential consultants. Look for those who offer free webinars or presentations, as this can give you a sense of their strategic planning model and work style before committing. You can also find consultants through social media platforms, where many share insights, case studies, and updates that reveal their approach and expertise. 

A Helpful Resource

We want to help you make smart choices when it comes to hiring a strategic planning consultant by sharing key insights and best practices. That’s why we created "The Dos and Don’ts of Hiring a Nonprofit Strategic Planning Consultant." This free eBook is designed to help you navigate the decision-making process, ensuring your organization gets the most value from your investment.

Inside, you’ll find expert advice and practical tips tailored specifically for nonprofit leaders. From understanding the right time to bring in a consultant to avoiding common pitfalls, this guide covers essential topics to help you make informed decisions. It also highlights ways to maximize efficiency, leverage external expertise effectively, and avoid unnecessary costs—all with your unique nonprofit challenges in mind.

Download the eBook today and gain the knowledge you need to confidently evaluate whether a consultant is the right fit for your organization!

Final Thoughts

Investing in a strategic planning consultant can be one of the most impactful decisions your nonprofit makes. While costs can vary, understanding the factors that influence these costs will help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re planning a major expansion or simply seeking to refine your organization’s goals, a strategic planning consultant can provide the expertise and guidance you need to succeed.