Nonprofit Resource Network

Join the Preferred Consultant Network

Introduction

The Nonprofit Resource Network (NRN) seeks to connect top quality experts to nonprofit organizations in need of technical assistance.  As you know, the field of consulting is not one that is regulated.  Thus, we seek to assist agencies by screening out those consultants that do not meet the minimum standards outlined below and required as part of our application process.  To this end, we ask that interested parties complete an application for membership approval. 

Benefits of Joining the Nonprofit Resource Network

• Included on the NRN’s Preferred Consultant List
• 20% Discount on all open-enrollment workshops/conferences
• Free referrals to nonprofit organizations looking for qualified consultants
• Free admission to exclusive networking events with nonprofit organizations and with other consultants working with nonprofit organizations
• Opportunities to publish articles on the NRN website (advertised via NRN Newsletter)
• Free access to samples/templates needed for effective nonprofit management (i.e. sample development plans, templates for strategic plans, RFPs, Release of Confidential Information, etc.)
• Opportunities to assist the NRN in developing said templates and sample plans for posting to the website
• “First-in-line” to assist the NRN in delivering workshop training and in providing peer growth circle facilitation depending on documented areas of expertise and the results of ongoing evaluation.

Criteria to be Met

In reviewing applications, we look for evidence of: 1) Depth of Experience/Education, 2) Competency, 3) Current/Up-to-Date Service, and 4) Ethical Practice.  The checklist below indicates how the application substantiates each of these areas:

Depth of Experience/Education

• Length of Service (In years)
• Community Involvement (Board, committee and other volunteer experience)
• Biography Statement
• Areas of Consulting Expertise

Competency

• Educational Degrees/Certifications
• Client References

Current/Up-to-Date Service

• Ongoing Training, i.e. Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and relevant workshops/conferences
• Current Publications (if applicable)
• Recent consulting work (i.e. documented through requested invoices)

  Ethical Practice

• Willingness to sign the NRN Standards of Ethical Practice

Financial Expectations

In recognition of consultants' individual experience and business practices, we do not set the fee for services provided by the consultant to the nonprofit community.  However, we do ask for an annual membership fee. 

Consultant Memberships	1-5 Employees	6-25 Employees	26-50 Employees	51+ Employees
First Year	$ 150	$200	$300	$500
Renewal Memberships	$ 300	$400	$600	$1,000

 

At the yearly reinstatement of membership, both the consultant and the NRN will have the opportunity to decide whether or not the ongoing relationship is in the interest of both parties.

Evaluation

Finally, as part of the relationship with the NRN, we ask that clients referred to consultants through the NRN complete our Consultant Evaluation form.  The results of these evaluations will be used to further market your services via our website/constituent communications and will also provide a useful tool for the client to give you feedback regarding their experience with you and/or your company.

Disclaimer

In general, consultants unable to meet the application criteria are not approved for membership in the Preferred Consultant Network.  However, the NRN reserves the right to adjust these criteria on a case-by-case basis and to not approve certain applicants for reasons not included in this application.  Each applicant will receive written notification of whether or not they have been approved.