Center for Nonprofit Excellence (CNE)

CNE strengthens nonprofits to realize the potential of our communities. We do this by:

EDUCATING nonprofit professionals and board members. When nonprofits manage effectively they have a greater impact. We build knowledge, confidence and enthusiasm in nonprofit professionals, board members and volunteers through our Trainings, Advanced Trainings, Consulting, and wide range of offerings for boards and board members to meet them where they are as part of our Governance Matters program. 

DEVELOPING leaders. CNE believes strong leaders are critical to the success of any nonprofit. CNE supports nonprofit leaders and prepares emerging sector leaders in peer learning groups through programs like our Board Academy, Management Academy, Finance Academy, and Leaders Circles.

FACILITATING collaboration. CNE recognizes the huge potential of nonprofit collaboration to solve complex social issues. We provide consulting, training, assistance and community forums to connect the sector and facilitate effective collaboration through our CoLab program.

CONNECTING members of the nonprofit sector and the community. CNE understands the importance of building a network of peers and engaging with partners. Our programs and events, such as Philanthropy Day, provide a forum through which nonprofits, and the communities they serve, can gather and exchange ideas and information. 

ADVISING nonprofit organizations. CNE is a trusted, listening ear for nonprofit professionals, board members and volunteers. Through email, phone or in-person consultation, nonprofit organizations can call on us to answer questions or help solve issues on a range of nonprofit topics.

INSPIRING transformation. CNE values innovation and stays on top of new resources and tools that can help the nonprofit sector grow and deepen its impact. CNE creates new programs, strives to dig deeper to support nonprofits in new ways, and always tries to stay one step ahead of emerging trends. Subscribe to CNE's eNewsletter for upcoming CNE events and trainings, news about the nonprofit community and sector, and articles of interest.

CNE is a membership organization that brings the most relevant trainings, education, tools and resources to nonprofit boards, staff and volunteers. We bring over 300 member organizations together to make our communities better places to live.

Since 2006, CNE has served as a trusted resource for the local nonprofit community by delivering a wide range of programs and services. Today, CNE offers more ways than ever to help our member organizations meet their mission and maximize impact.

Members depend on CNE’s knowledge and expertise to provide them with information, insight and direction. CNE’s events and programs confirm the importance of the network in building partnerships, collaborations and sharing knowledge. Our leading-edge programs develop leadership, management and collaboration skills. And our business and consultant members, offering exclusive discounts to member organizations, help to cut organizational expenses.

Our members span the nonprofit sector in scale and scope— from small, neighborhood-focused organizations, to large, community support agencies. Together, we deepen our impact supporting each other in our shared vision to strengthen our communities. 

We believe when nonprofits are stronger and more sustainable, they have a greater impact and create a more thriving community.

We do not provide shelter for the homeless or feed the hungry, but we guide those who do to make the best decisions for their organizations. We provide nonprofit education, assistance, and a listening ear to hundreds of individuals on the forefront of nonprofit work who deliver critical services to those in need.