Expanding Access to SIF’s Nonprofit Network

For more than 23 years, SIF has provided transformational capacity building to nonprofits across Eastern Massachusetts, supporting organizations to build the knowledge, networks, and resources they need. Our Nonprofit Network includes over 250 organizations that have connected with SIF through our programs over the years, including Accelerator alumni and finalists, Capacity Camp participants, and co-workers. 

Network Survey Results

Network participants consistently report meaningful gains in knowledge, confidence, and organizational capacity. In recent survey data:

• 95% of participants say they are likely to apply something they learned in the next 12 months.
• 100% of learning cohort participants report having increased access to a network of support from other nonprofit leaders.
• 100% of annual survey respondents would recommend the Nonprofit Network to a friend or colleague.

Next year, for the first time, we will expand access to participate in our Nonprofit Network, while continuing to honor the long-term relationships we have with our existing network organizations. Year after year, we hear from our community that the network we create, where participants can learn from experts and also each other, is what sets us apart. Our existing network relationships remain central to this model. Expanding access does not mean moving away from the close-knit community that we’ve built; it means creating more opportunities for nonprofit leaders to enter and engage with that community. 

Why are we expanding access to participate in our programs?

Nonprofits are facing extraordinary pressure: increased demand for services, funding cuts, and deep uncertainty. We want to meet nonprofits where they are, and that means being accessible to those who are looking for leadership development, skill building, and a community of peers. 

The SIF Network is designed to support nonprofit organizations in building the strong infrastructure they need to navigate the ups and downs of running an organization. Our program is guided by our Alumni Council, who bring their extensive knowledge and experience leading organizations from a cross-section of issue areas and communities. We are inspired by the courage of our sector, and are excited to do what we can to help nonprofits meet this moment by opening our doors wider to leverage the strength of our extraordinary network to impact even more nonprofit organizations in Eastern Massachusetts.

Open Registration

Beginning in January 2027, SIF will open registration for workshops and learning cohorts to nonprofits beyond our existing network. We plan to offer a range of topics — fundraising, communications, evaluation, board development, team management, strategy, and more — and a variety of formats to meet different needs and learning styles, including in-person and virtual sessions, full-day intensives, and learning cohorts. 

We know that organizations are navigating limited resources. To make our sessions accessible, we will offer sliding scale pricing based on organization budget size. 

To support this work, make a gift to SIF and enable us to continue offering no- and low-cost options to the organizations that need it most.

Network Pass

SIF is also introducing the Network Pass, providing access to all the benefits of our network for a calendar year. The Network Pass will provide a deeper, year-round connection to SIF's community and resources to organizations not currently in SIF’s Network. 

Benefits of Participation

• Interactive learning for nonprofit staff at all levels on a broad range of topics through virtual workshops and full-day intensives.
• Multi-session deep learning to gain skills and build relationships through learning cohorts
• Networking and shared learning opportunities at cross-sector nonprofit-funder convenings
• Legal, communications, and data analysis support from SIF’s in-kind partners
• Curated list of funding opportunities, events, and sector resources delivered through a bi-weekly newsletter
• Direct connections to a wide range of nonprofit professionals through our online listserv community

Get Involved

For funders, sponsoring an SIF Network Pass is a high-leverage investment that strengthens grantee organizations “beyond the check” by building leadership, organizational systems, and long-term resilience. Funders who would like to make a gift to support opening access to SIF’s network, or learn more about purchasing a Network Pass for a grantee can contact Emily Bottie, Director of Advancement, at ebottie@socialinnovationforum.org. 

Nonprofit leaders who are interested in learning more about SIF’s Nonprofit Network or Network Pass can sign up for our mailing list or email Jenna Nackel, Director of Network Engagement, at jnackel@socialinnovationforum.org.