Board Member

Join the ConnectUP! Institute Board: Empower Underestimated Founders ConnectUP! Institute, under the dynamic leadership of Y. Elaine Rasmussen, is on an inspiring mission to curate content, community, capital, and connections for underestimated founders in Minnesota. As we expand our reach and deepen our impact, we are seeking passionate, innovative leaders to join our Board of Directors.

Mission & Vision

ConnectUP! Institute is creating equitable entrepreneurial ecosystems by providing education, support, and connectivity to leaders who identify as Black, Indigenous, people of color, women, LGBTQ and are founding high-impact ventures to build community wealth and develop entrepreneurial capabilities.

Values

Being UNAPOLOGETIC about who we are, where we’re from and who we serve with courage and passion.

Compassionate Accountability

Respect who people are, where they are and the identities they hold.

Being GUIDED BY ANCESTRAL KNOWLEDGE that Communities hold wisdom that works.

INTENTIONAL TRANSPARENCY with the work we do, the communities we serve and the relationships we build.

360-DEGREE COMPASSIONATE ACCOUNTABILITY to foster equitable and economically vibrant communities.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES + EXPECTATIONS

• Term will be approximately three years (36 months), ending the respective calendar year in December.
• Attend four Board meetings per year (quarterly).
• Review the minutes from meetings and if needed, follow-up with the executive director or board member to get more details.
• Read the materials provided to you and make an effort to understand them, particularly the organization’s financial reports.
• Treat confidential information appropriately.
• Bring your skills and talents to the table.
• Serve on a committee to share your talents and expertise for valuable learning opportunities (when applicable).
• Participate in strategic and operational planning for the organization.

Commitment

~1.5 hours/month in between board meetings (review materials, take calls from ED, etc.)

3-hour quarterly board meeting

We are particularly looking for individuals with expertise in:

• Finance & Banking: Guide our financial strategy and ensure fiscal health and compliance.
• Governance: Help us maintain the highest standards of board excellence and ethical governance.
• Communications: Amplify our mission through strategic communication and outreach.
• Technology: Advise on integrating cutting-edge technologies to enhance our programs and reach.
• Evaluation: Oversee the measurement of our impact and the effectiveness of our initiatives.
• Fundraising: Lead and innovate our fundraising efforts to support and sustain our growth.

Board membership at ConnectUP! Institute is an extraordinary opportunity to be at the forefront of entrepreneurial support and social change. You will work alongside a committed team in shaping a more inclusive and prosperous ecosystem for all founders.

Interested in learning more about a board of directors positions, complete the informational intake included here. The executive director will follow-up with you directly.