This is a guest post from Tasha Van Vlack, founder and CEO at The Nonprofit Hive.

Introduction

Connections are the lifeblood of the nonprofit sector. It is the people behind the mission that weave together the fabric of collaboration, support, and shared mission that drives impactful change.

“Strategic networking” has gotten a bad rap - like the only reason you are networking is to get something out of the exchange. But in many ways, aren’t we always looking for an exchange (even if it is of ideas/opinions) when we connect with any other person?

When nonprofits take the time to build, maintain and leverage connections, they unlock the power of weak links, those often-overlooked acquaintances who can open doors to new opportunities and resources. By fostering strategic communities and cultivating a supportive network, we as individuals can contribute to transforming how nonprofits thrive and innovate.

The Benefits of Nonprofit Networking

Networking stopped being about collecting business cards or adding connections on LinkedIn a long time ago. With more technology and ability to connect than ever before, social impact professionals need to use tech for good to create a web of relationships that can support, uplift, and drive your mission forward.

Here’s just a handful of reasons why investing in nonprofit networking is a strategic move:

Resource Sharing

One of the top benefits of networking is access to a wealth of resources. No one I know in the nonprofit sector has the time or the energy to sift through the thousands of websites that come up when you type in ‘nonprofit marketing.’ So instead, we often rely on our connections to other nonprofit professionals to open doors, direct us to great resources and introduce us to funding opportunities, volunteers and partnerships.

Whether it’s finding a grant writer through a connection or discovering a volunteer with a unique skill set, these resources can be game-changers for your organization.

Increased Visibility

Networking helps put your nonprofit on the map. When I first started The Nonprofit Hive, it was all about brand awareness and getting the message out there. By building relationships with other organizations and influencers in the sector, you increase your visibility and credibility. This can lead to more speaking engagements, media opportunities, and invitations to join collaborative projects. As you become more well-known, your ability to attract support and resources grows exponentially.

Access to Expertise

No nonprofit can thrive in isolation. Yet for some reason a culture of connection + networking is sometimes discouraged because of concerns over competition for resources.

But nonprofit networking allows you to tap into a vast pool of knowledge and expertise. Need advice on a new program? Looking for insights on best practices? Your network can provide invaluable guidance and support. By learning from others’ experiences and successes, you can avoid pitfalls and implement strategies that have been proven to work.

Creating a Culture of Nonprofit Collaboration

Does your nonprofit have a culture of collaboration?

As I noted above, fears of competition for dollars often win out but a collaborative culture is vital for nonprofit organizations. It empowers team members, enhances innovation, and drives collective success. A strong sense of community and collaboration can significantly amplify impact.

But where do we start if this is not how your nonprofit currently operates?

To foster collaboration, start by promoting open communication. Encourage team members to share ideas, feedback, and challenges openly. This builds trust and ensures everyone feels heard and valued.
Next, create opportunities for teamwork. Organize regular brainstorming sessions, cross-departmental projects, and team-building activities. This not only strengthens relationships but also leverages diverse skills and perspectives.
Another key step is to lead by example. Show a commitment to collaboration through your actions and decisions. Recognize and celebrate collaborative efforts, setting a standard for others to follow.
Lastly, invest in tools and resources that facilitate collaboration. Whether it’s project management software, regular check-ins, or training programs, providing the right support can make collaboration seamless and effective.

Building a culture of collaboration is going to take time and effort - two things often in short supply in the nonprofit sector. But the rewards here can be world changing. When trust and teamwork are at the heart of your organization, you create a resilient, innovative, and unified force ready to tackle any challenge.

Building Strategic Communities Through Networking

What if your nonprofit team who supported food scarcity in New York State was able to connect with a food bank in Oregon? Or was able to meet other local nonprofits that address poverty? How would those connections or different supports move your own mission forward?

Strategic communities are intentionally built networks of individuals and organizations aligned by a shared mission. In the nonprofit sector, these communities are invaluable, serving as hubs for collaboration, innovation, and resource sharing.

Unlike casual networking, strategic communities are purpose-driven, creating spaces where members exchange ideas, support each other’s goals, and work together on initiatives that drive meaningful change. They are built on mutual trust and a common vision, making them powerful tools for nonprofits.

Often these groups bring together diverse talents and perspectives - key ingredients that lead to innovative solutions and greater collective impact. For example, a community focused on homelessness might include nonprofits, local businesses, government agencies, and volunteers, pooling resources and developing comprehensive strategies.

Strategic communities also foster a culture of collaboration and continuous learning. Members share best practices, mentor each other, and support one another through challenges, sparking new ideas and encouraging innovation.

By fostering collaboration, innovation, and resource sharing, strategic communities play a crucial role in advancing nonprofit missions.

Are you ready to expand your Nonprofit Network?

For too long nonprofit professionals have been siloed to their own corners of the industry, scrambling for funding, stressing about “unique” challenges and more. But have we all been making a mistake by not making the time and space for a robust nonprofit network?

Building and nurturing nonprofit connections is more than just a beneficial practice; it is an essential strategy for growth and sustainability.

Recap of this article:

Networking Benefits: Investing in networking leads to resource sharing, increased visibility, and access to expertise, driving your nonprofit’s mission forward.
Community Building: Clear vision, authentic engagement, social media leverage, and continuous nurturing are key strategies for building a vibrant and supportive community.
Strategic Communities: Purpose-driven networks foster collaboration, innovation, and resource sharing, amplifying the collective impact.

Call to Action

Now is the time to invest in your networking efforts.

Start by identifying potential weak links and strategic communities that align with your mission. Engage authentically, provide value, and maintain momentum to build a dynamic network. Whether you’re attending events, leveraging social media, or fostering collaborations, every connection can contribute to your nonprofit’s success.

You're not only enhancing your organization’s capabilities but also contributing to a more resilient and impactful nonprofit sector.

So take action today, build those connections, and watch your nonprofit thrive.