Blackbaud created a three-tier program of certification for Raiser's Edge users. The new offering from the Charleston, S.C.-based nonprofit software vendor is designed to create a professional development program for users of the fundraising package, who can qualify at the Associate, Professional, and Master levels. Called Blackbaud Certification in The Raiser's Edge, the program has an exam with more than 600 certification questions. Those certified can display the achievement through a certificate, certified seal certified icon and use of bCRE as a professional designation. The Associate and Professional exams are $199 each while the Master's exam fee is $299. The entry-level exam tests skills in navigation, data entry, record management (constituent, gift, and action), batch entry, optional modules. Those seeking Professional-level recognition are examined on in-depth knowledge of query, mail, reports, dashboards, exports, action tracks, events, memberships, volunteers, tributes, prospect research, alumni records, and The Giving Score. Master-level applicants are queried on expert knowledge of The Raiser's Edge, including: configuration, administration, SAP Crystal Reports, and development of policies and procedures to define data consistency practices. Registrations are being accepted for the first two tests while the Blackbaud website shows the Master test is coming soon.

Nonprofit accounting software company AccuFund has signed Brisbane Consulting Group as a reseller for its suite. A subsidiary of CPA firm Lumsden & McCormick, Brisbane will offer the on-premise AccuFund Accounting Suite and cloud-based AccuFund Anywhere. The Nonprofit Solution Division of Buffalo, N.Y.-based Brisbane carries three former Sage products, Abila's Fund Accounting 100, Fundraising 50 and Fundraising Online.