Vision
Equitable, thriving, and just communities powered by healthy nonprofits.
Mission
We are a champion, learning partner, and advisor for Virginia nonprofits.
Values
We are centered and guided by our values of courage, equity, collaboration, and excellence.
Latest News & Our Blog
Virginia House Bill 353 Unanimously Passes House Labor & Commerce Subcommittee (9–0) and Senate
House Bill 353 (HB 353), legislation that would expand access to health benefit plans for Virginia’s nonprofit workforce, passed the House Labor and Commerce Subcommittee #1 with a unanimous vote (9–0) on Tuesday, January 27th, marking a significant early step in the 2026 General Assembly session.
The Center for Nonprofit Excellence & UVA School of Data Science Release 2026 Economic Impact of the Nonprofit Sector Report
The Center for Nonprofit Excellence (CNE) and the University of Virginia School of Data Science are proud to announce the release of the 2026 Economic Impact of the Nonprofit Sector Report, a comprehensive, data-driven examination of the essential role nonprofits play in the economic health and daily life of communities across Virginia.
Virginia House Bill 353 Unanimously Passes House Labor & Commerce Subcommittee (9–0)
House Bill 353 (HB 353), legislation that would expand access to health benefit plans for Virginia’s nonprofit workforce, passed the House Labor and Commerce Subcommittee #1 with a unanimous vote (9–0) on Tuesday, January 27th, marking a significant early step in the 2026 General Assembly session.
Upcoming Trainings & Events
Case Studies in Planned Giving
1701-A Allied Street, Charlotteville, VA 22903
[Rescheduled from 12/9/25 due to inclement weather.] How do you get your key donors and or board members to make a Legacy commitment to your organization? Planned Giving guru, Russell James, says, "The best way to start that planned giving conversation is to say to a donor, 'Your situation reminds of a case I recently […]
Treasurer’s Discussion Group- March 2026
Hybrid, Zoom & 1701-A Allied Street, Charlottesville, VA 22903
Are you currently serving or interested in serving as a treasurer on a nonprofit board? Would you like to connect with others in similar roles to share insights, learn best practices, and discuss the unique challenges of nonprofit financial leadership? This discussion group is designed to support individuals serving as nonprofit board treasurers or those […]
Lunch & Learn | Technology Planning on a Nonprofit Budget
1701-A Allied Street, Charlotteville, VA 22903
Join us for an in-person Lunch and Learn on Wednesday, March 25th, 12:00 – 1:00 pm at CNE. Navigating technology decisions on a tight budget? You're not alone. Many nonprofits struggle to balance their tech needs with limited resources. CNE is partnering with Innovative Software Solutions (ISS), our trusted technology partner, to help you make smart […]
Marketing and Communications Discussion Group – March 2026
Zoom
Are you a marketing or communications professional looking to connect and learn from your peers in other organizations? CNE’s Marketing & Communications Discussion Group provides an opportunity for folks working in communications to share challenges, swap stories, and get industry updates. Each session will focus on a different topic and include guest speakers when possible. […]
Fraud Protection for Nonprofits- April 2026
Zoom
Join us for an essential 1-hour session on protecting your organization from financial fraud. April Gatewood, Vice President | Financial Sales Manager at First Citizens Bank, will share practical strategies, warning signs, and best practices to safeguard your nonprofit's assets and reputation. Whether you're a board member, executive director, or finance professional, this session will […]
Leaders of Color Collective: The Future of Leadership
Zoom
The Leaders of Color Collective is a program designed specifically for and by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) working in the social impact sector. Join CNE for the spring session in our Leaders of Color Collective, The Future of Leadership: Collaborative & Collective Models. The next era of leadership emphasizes collaboration, shared power, […]
So You Want To Be A Treasurer-April 2026
Zoom
We are excited to offer this program free for members! Please join us and explore the treasurer's role in effective financial planning, resource stewardship, and organizational oversight. Learn how to support board decision-making, ensure financial policies are documented and followed, and navigate the complexities of budgeting, audits, and reporting. We'll also cover the benefits of […]
Day of Learning: Operational Excellence in Action
CitySpace- 100 5th Street N.E, Charlottesville VA
Join us for our Spring 2026 Day of Learning: Operational Excellence in Action on Wednesday, April 29th, for an immersive learning experience designed for nonprofit staff, leaders and board members. Through interactive workshops and facilitated conversations, participants gain practical tools, fresh perspectives, and actionable strategies to strengthen leadership, improve collaboration, and deepen organizational impact — […]
State of the Sector
The Waterside Marriott & The Slover in Norfolk, Virginia
State of the Sector unites Virginia's nonprofit community for learning, connection, and collaboration. This conference showcases the resources, expertise, and partnerships that help nonprofits thrive in a rapidly changing landscape. Participants will gain: Strengthened organizational capacity New ideas and shared learning Opportunities to collaborate for greater impact By bringing nonprofit leaders, funders, and partners into […]
Development Discussion Group – May 2026
Center for Nonprofit Excellence, 1701-A Allied Street, Charlottesville
Are you involved in nonprofit development or philanthropy and looking for opportunities to connect, share insights, and learn from others in similar roles? This discussion group is designed to support individuals involved in fundraising, grant writing, donor stewardship, and other aspects of nonprofit development and philanthropy. Participants will have the opportunity to share experiences, exchange […]