The Resource Directory consultant listings provide valuable, detailed information on a wide range of service providers in the form of listing pages. We post these pages after:

1. Reviewing the application and attachments submitted by the provider
2. Ensuring that the person or organization meets the requirements outlined below and on the application
3. Conducting reference checks using a form developed in consultation with a Consultant Advisory Group (applies to providers who offer consulting services or products)

Information found on the listing pages, including the summary statement, was submitted by the person or group that applied to be in the Directory. Therefore, the accuracy of this information is ultimately the responsibility of each provider. We encourage Directory users to do their own due diligence before hiring a provider. Additionally, a provider's listing does not imply 501 Commons' endorsement.

Minimum requirements

Years Serving Nonprofits

To be in the Resource Directory consultant listings applicants must have at least three years of recent experience as a business or independent consultant serving nonprofits (including schools and government organizations) in the categories they wish to be listed under. Experience working or volunteering at a nonprofit does not count toward this minimum requirement.

Nonprofit Client Base

All applicants must be able to show that they have a nonprofit focus. This is even more important for companies or organizations that serve both businesses and nonprofits. The requirements differ depending on organization size.

• Under 6 employees – nonprofit clients need to comprise at least 30% of your business
• 6 or more employees – nonprofit clients need to comprise at least 30% of your business or your company must include professionals with 3 years of experience and expertise serving nonprofits

Reference checks

In addition to a review of their applications and submitted materials, we verify that there are at least three nonprofit clients who recommend providers that are one of the types below:

This process involves conversations with nonprofit client references, and a scoring system using a reference-check form. An average score of 3.5, or higher, on a 4-point scale is required for the provider to be listed.

Nonprofit service providers that are one of the types below are listed upon review of their application; references are not contacted:

• Associations, networks, and other groups
• Educational programs and resource centers focused on nonprofits
• Volunteer centers

Interim executive directors/CEOs

In addition to the above minimum requirements, to be listed under the "Interim executive director/CEO" subcategory, the applicant must:

1. Have at least two interim ED/CEO engagements in the last six years
2. Provide references for interim ED/CEO work done for at least two nonprofit clients and 501 Commons will conduct at least two reference checks

Reminder: Experience working as an executive director/CEO at a nonprofit, while relevant, does not count in this case. Consulting experience is needed. Also, experience from interim roles other than ED/CEO, such as an interim development director, also does not count for this subcategory.

Listing categories & fees

When applying, service providers can choose from 20 categories, or areas of expertise, and many more subcategories. Since no one can be an expert in all areas, we limit the number of categories each provider can select and be listed under.

All providers must also pay a listing fee, which covers a portion of the costs of maintaining the listing service.

For a complete listing of categories, visit the online application. To review category limits and fees, go to our Listing Categories & Fees page.