For the last two years I have been listening to nonprofit professionals talk about “the state of nonprofit work,” and it's clear the nonprofit sector stands at a crucial crossroads. The societal need for nonprofit services has never been more prevalent and the burnout facing those who work in nonprofit is increasing at pace. Now, more than ever, investing in nonprofit networking is not just beneficial—it's essential for fostering resilience, driving impact, and ensuring sustainable growth.
Here's why networking in the nonprofit world is invaluable post-COVID.
Building resilient support networks
COVID-19 upended all aspects of Canadian society and has shown us the importance of robust support systems. Networking within the nonprofit sector creates a web of support, allowing organizations to share resources, offer mutual aid, and stand together against challenges. In a post-COVID era, a strong network is your safety net, and for us remote workers, a connection to the “outside” world.
Amplifying collective impact
When nonprofits connect, our collective impact is ultimately outsized. Networking with other nonprofit professionals opens the door to larger-scale projects, broader reach, and more significant change. We need to pool our strengths in order to create a ripple effect of positive change. This has never been more crucial than right now, as we work to recover and rebuild in a post-pandemic world.
Fostering innovation through collaboration
The challenges of this world and society have never been bigger—and they will continue to demand innovative solutions, often born from collaboration. Networking introduces new perspectives, ideas, and approaches, sparking creativity and leading to breakthroughs in how we address social issues. In a rapidly changing world, staying connected ensures you remain at the forefront of innovation.
Enhancing sustainability and resource sharing
Sustainability is a top concern for nonprofits. Have you ever heard of a nonprofit who goes “oh we have plenty of resources?” Networking not only opens avenues for financial support and resource sharing but also for exchanging strategies that contribute to organizational resilience and sustainability. Learning from peers about diversifying income streams or optimizing resources can be game-changing.
Empowering professional development
At its heart, nonprofit work is driven by passionate individuals dedicated to making a difference. Networking provides opportunities for professional growth, skill development, and leadership training—empowering individuals to excel in their roles and drive their organizations forward. Finding spaces to network as a nonprofit professional IS the future of this sector.
The Nonprofit Hive
The Nonprofit Hive is our love letter to the nonprofit industry—a call to action to get out there and begin networking, communing and conversing with other nonprofit professionals. Born from a desire to connect, empower and foster growth among changemakers, our platform has no geographical boundaries. Anyone in the social impact space has the opportunity to join weekly, cultivated 1-1 video chats. This is a safe space to talk nonprofit “shop,” share about the challenges of the work, collaborate on initiatives and create your own support network.
This Canadian-based initiative is connecting nonprofit professionals in 30+ countries and has organically grown to more than 750 members in over 6 months. As founders we have witnessed the deep desire for community and connection and how peer support can be influential in supporting a continued passion for nonprofit work.
Conclusion
The value of networking within the nonprofit sector cannot in my mind be stressed enough - particularly after 4 long years of pandemic stagnation. Let’s set up networking as a catalyst for resilience, impact, innovation, sustainability, and personal growth. Connecting now with other changemakers will have long-term impacts on the social impact sector of the future. Together we're building a stronger, more collaborative future for nonprofits tomorrow. We need to take the time to strengthen our networks and harness the power of community both personally and professionally.
Join us in shaping a future where nonprofits not only survive but thrive through the strength of community.
Tasha Van Vlack is a co-founder at The Nonprofit Hive, a free video platform for changemakers to connect weekly and collaborate one-to-one. Tasha has been building bridges and connecting with nonprofit professionals for the last 7 years through a mixture of marketing, sales and customer success conversations. Tasha’s passion is people and you are most likely to find her in her spare time floating around LinkedIn or Slack channels.
