Tap into education and resources that move your mission forward
From one-time in-person workshops to multi-month virtual cohorts, free access to nonprofit resources, and networking nights, connect to programming that suits every need and keeps your organization on top of the trends.
For Nonprofit Staff & Leaders
CNE hosts several dozen programs annually that equip nonprofit staff and leadership with vital skills, fostering professional growth and encouraging holistic personal and career development. These initiatives include our popular “Soup to Nuts” series on Fundamentals of Nonprofit Management, offered in partnership with the United Way; our Equity Institute series, designed to help develop and support DEI initiatives; Leaders of Color Networking nights to create community and support amongst leaders in the field; and more.
For Executive Directors & Board
Currently, we hold two annual events dedicated to bolstering, amplifying, and fostering connections among nonprofit leaders. Our Susan M. Ross Leadership Institute offers peer-to-peer learning and group discussion, along with educational sessions aimed to inspire brave and equitable leadership. Our Briggs Tobin Workshop for Board Effectiveness shares tips from industry experts on how Board members can collaborate, fundraise and govern successfully.
For Leaders of Color
CNE has developed offerings tailored specifically to empower and champion Leaders of Color. Past programs, sponsored by Wells Fargo, have included networking nights, capacity-building courses, “Leading for Change” held in collaboration with Five Frogs, and Resilia – a year of peer learning, coaching and online resources.
Attend an Event
Find a workshop, professional development training, or other nonprofit offering below.
We also invite you to explore our Soup to Nuts learning series and Communities of Practice cohorts taking place in 2026!
Strength in Strategy: From Challenge to Opportunity – Part 2 Offers & Needs Market (OANM)
Wakeman Boys & Girls Club, Simlow-Burroughs Clubhouse 2414 Fairfield Ave, Bridgeport, CT, United StatesThe nonprofit sector is famously tight on resources, and many of us know this to be our reality. Yet, we are rich in community. Join us for this Offers & Needs Market, a guided session designed to create strategic connections across our nonprofit ecosystem. We all have needs, and we all have something to offer. [ ... ] Continue reading »
Brewing Community – Third Place by Half Full Brewery
Third Place by Half Full Brewery 575 Pacific Street, Stamford, United StatesBrewing Community is a gathering and networking opportunity for nonprofit leaders to connect, share insights, and explore ideas in a relaxed, conversational setting over drinks. This event is ideal for [ ... ] Continue reading »
Strength in Strategy: From Challenge to Opportunity – Part 3 Strategic Partnerships, Mergers & Shared Services
This session reframes the concept of consolidation, mergers, and shared services as exciting opportunities for growth and sustainability. Mike Gifford will share strategies for nonprofits to pursue transformative partnerships that [ ... ] Continue reading »
Community of Practice: Board Members
Following the success of our Communities of Practice for New Executive Directors, Programming Professionals, Fundraising & Development, and Data leaders, we are launching a peer group specifically for Board Members. [ ... ] Continue reading »
Fueling Community – Sacred Grounds – Sherman
Sacred Grounds 1 Route 37 East, Unit 1, Sherman, United StatesMay 1, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM (In-Person) After two years connecting with nonprofit leaders across almost every town in Fairfield County, we’re finishing the journey with our northern neighbors. [ ... ] Continue reading »
Fueling Community – Froggy’s Sandwiches – New Fairfield
Froggy's Sandwiches 9 Brush Hill Rd, New Fairfield, CT, United StatesMay 1, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (In-Person) After two years connecting with nonprofit leaders across almost every town in Fairfield County, we’re finishing the journey with our northern neighbors. [ ... ] Continue reading »
Soup to Nuts: Website Strategy for Fundraising Success
Join us May 14 for Website Strategy for Fundraising Success Session Time: 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM Strengthen your nonprofit from the inside out through Soup to Nuts: Fundamentals of Nonprofit [ ... ] Continue reading »
Soup to Nuts: Finding Your Best-Fit Donors
Join us June 11 for Finding Your Best-Fit Donors Session Time: 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM Strengthen your nonprofit from the inside out through Soup to Nuts: Fundamentals of Nonprofit Management — [ ... ] Continue reading »
Explore Data on Fairfield County
Looking for statistics on community wellbeing and the state of equity in Fairfield County? Discover how our research reports can support your organization’s strategic planning, grant writing, data-driven storytelling and more.
Get Involved
Want to help Fairfield County nonprofits get the support they need to bring about positive change? Work with us!
Lead a Lunch & Learn
No one knows Fairfield County nonprofits like you and your colleagues working on the ground. Volunteer to share an innovative approach, lessons learned, or collaborative opportunity. Speakers receive a stipend for a 45 minute presentation and 15 minutes of Q&A.
Submit a Proposal
Are you a nonprofit consultant? We are looking for experienced and dedicated consultants to assist with fundraising development, board training, marketing, staff development and more. Proposals will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Donate to the CNE
Help CNE build a stronger nonprofit community! Your tax-deductible donation helps us connect hundreds of nonprofit staff, board members and volunteers to trainings, education and tools that help them advance their missions and thrive.
To learn more about Center for Nonprofit Excellence programs and how to get involved, contact Rebecca Cordero, CNE Manager, at RCordero@FCCFoundation.org or call (203) 750-3238.
