Plain-language guidance for volunteer boards and search committees. Whether you are weighing your staffing options, budgeting for management support, or preparing an RFP, start here.
Answers for association boards
How much does an association management company cost?
What drives AMC fees, common pricing models, and the questions to ask.
Read more →
AMC vs. in-house staff vs. a fractional executive director
A side-by-side look at the three staffing models and when each fits.
Read more →
How to choose an AMC (and write the RFP)
A step-by-step selection process, what to include in your RFP, and red flags.
Read more →
Frequently asked questions
Straight answers about NorthStar and how association management works.
Read more →
Free tools for your search
Ready-to-use templates your search committee can adapt and share.
AMC RFP template (Word)
Fill in your association profile, services needed, proposal requirements, evaluation criteria, timeline, and pricing and reference forms.
Download →
AMC proposal scoring rubric (Excel)
Up to five reviewers score each proposal 1–5. The workbook ranks firms automatically and compares three-year pricing.
Download →
Keep learning
Have an RFP or need a proposal?
Send us your RFP, or tell us about your association and we will put together a tailored proposal.