Networking
This comprehensive guide equips your non-profit to harness the full power of networking, ensuring you have the tools, strategies, and mindset to succeed.
Introduction
Networking is the foundation of every successful non-profit. It connects you to essential resources, amplifies your mission, and accelerates your impact. Building a vast professional network—encompassing lawyers, community leaders, donors, local businesses, advocates, and more—enables your organization to thrive, adapt, and grow.
This guide outlines how to develop your network, connect with key players, and establish yourself as a connector of people, all while leveraging free or affordable tools tailored to non-profits.
The Importance of Networking
Resource Expansion: Gain access to legal advice, funding, volunteers, and partnerships.
Credibility: Build trust through collaboration with respected professionals and organizations.
Amplification: Leverage networks to extend your reach through shared connections and referrals.
Knowledge Sharing: Learn from other leaders, non-profits, and experts to refine your strategies and innovate.
How to Build Your Network
Start Small
Begin with your existing connections—friends, colleagues, and board members.
Ask for introductions to their professional contacts who align with your mission.
Be Curious and Genuine
Show interest in others’ work and passions.
Ask, “How can I support you?”—a simple but powerful way to build goodwill.
Leverage Digital Tools and Communities
LinkedIn: Create an organizational profile and actively share updates to attract like-minded professionals.
Meetup: Explore local networking events or groups focused on non-profits and community building.
VolunteerMatch: Connect with skilled professionals and volunteers while building a pipeline of supporters.
Slack Communities: Join groups like Nonprofit Happy Hour for virtual networking and collaboration.
Bizzabo: Recommended for organizations ready to host or attend major events with robust networking and attendee analytics.
HARO: Highlight its relevance for amplifying non-profit stories by connecting with journalists seeking expert input.
TEDx Non-Profit Partnerships: TEDx doesn’t explicitly focus on non-profits, but many local TEDx events look for speakers who can bring unique stories and insights. Non-profits should pitch themselves as subject-matter experts on their cause.
National Council of Nonprofits: Provides directories, webinars, and networking opportunities designed for non-profits.
Foundation Center by Candid: Offers grant-seeking workshops, funding directories, and opportunities for networking with funders.
TechSoup: Connects non-profits with free or discounted tools and resources, plus webinars on building professional networks.
Follow Up and Stay Organized
After every meeting or event, follow up with a thank-you email.
Keep a detailed database of your contacts. Free tools like Airtable or Google Sheets work well for smaller networks.
Where to Network
Events
Local Mixers: Attend business or community events at your chamber of commerce or library.
Industry Conferences: Look for non-profit-specific gatherings like:
Nonprofit Technology Conference (NTC) – Focused on tech for non-profits.
Cause Camp – Actionable insights for non-profits at any stage.
SOCAP (Social Capital Markets) – Connects social impact leaders and funders.
Free Platforms for Event Listings:
Eventbrite: Search for free or low-cost non-profit events.
LinkedIn Events: Ideal for webinars and networking gatherings.
Educational Institutions
Partner with colleges to access student volunteers or faculty expertise.
Offer to speak at campus events or host workshops on community impact.
Local Government and Advocacy Groups
Attend public meetings, town halls, and civic forums to build relationships with policymakers and advocates.
Who to Network With
Lawyers: Assist with compliance, contracts, and governance.
Non-Profit Leaders: Collaborate on initiatives and share resources.
Donors and Funders: Build long-term trust with individuals and organizations who align with your mission.
Advocates: Work with those who amplify your cause through their platforms.
State and Local Governments: Secure funding, influence policies, and build community credibility.
Businesses and Colleges: Access talent, funding, and partnership opportunities.
How to Be Impossible to Ignore
Be the Voice for Your Mission
Develop thought leadership by creating blogs, hosting webinars, or starting a podcast about your cause.
Pitch yourself for speaking engagements at:
Local Venues: Rotary clubs, libraries, or community centers.
Larger Platforms: Conferences like TEDx (search for local TEDx events with community/social themes) or SOCAP.
Be a Connector
Regularly introduce people within your network who can collaborate or help each other.
Share opportunities or resources generously with your contacts.
Create a Rolodex
Use tools like Google Contacts or HubSpot CRM (free for small non-profits) to organize your network.
Keep detailed notes on conversations and potential collaboration opportunities.
Be Kind and Curious
Treat every interaction as an opportunity to learn and connect.
Remember, every person you meet is an asset, whether they’re a potential donor, volunteer, or advocate.
Free and Affordable Tools for Networking
LinkedIn: Build professional connections, share updates, and join relevant groups.
VolunteerMatch: Find and connect with volunteers while building relationships with community-minded professionals.
Slack Communities: Join groups like Nonprofit Happy Hour for real-time advice and collaboration.
Google Workspace (Nonprofit Program): Organize communications and contacts with free tools for eligible organizations.
Airtable: Track and manage relationships and projects with a simple, flexible platform.
Meetup: Find local events and networking opportunities.
Speaking Engagements
Start Small
Focus on local opportunities like libraries, colleges, and civic clubs (Rotary, Kiwanis, etc.).
Offer workshops or Q&A sessions to share your expertise.
Scale to Larger Stages
Research and apply for platforms like:
TEDx: Many events seek speakers with unique stories or community impact. Focus on their call-for-speakers pages for relevant themes.
Cause Camp: Non-profit-focused sessions for knowledge-sharing and exposure.
Tips for Securing Opportunities
Craft a compelling pitch that highlights your non-profit’s unique impact or innovative approach.
Showcase expertise by publishing insights on LinkedIn, blogs, or local newsletters.
Collaborate with other non-profits or businesses to co-host events and gain visibility.
Simple Advice to Begin
Start by attending one local networking event or joining one online community this month. Focus on building 3-5 meaningful connections by asking genuine questions and offering to help. Follow up with a thoughtful note, and track your progress. Networking is about relationships, not transactions—nurture these connections over time.
Last updated