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We cultivate. We nurture. We uplift.
We grow.

Mission

To empower Black Executive Directors as they navigate the systemic challenges in the nonprofit sector by providing access to the community, capital, and equitable development growth opportunities.

vision

Narrow the racial leadership gap, ultimately driving inclusion, diversity, and solution-based models to eliminate cultural biases, reshaping the philanthropic landscape.

LAUNCH

On June 9, 2021, we introduced BLK ED Network to the philanthropic community. The first convening took place on July 14, 2021, & July 28, 2021, in partnership with Maryland Nonprofits. In the Fall of 2021, we launched our official programming establishing the first chapter of BLK ED Network in Baltimore, MD. Our goal is to expand beyond Baltimore nationally in the next two years, targeting cities where data shows significant numbers of Black-led nonprofits.

COMMUNITY

The nonprofit sector has historically served marginalized communities and communities of color who have been disproportionately affected by a system that was never designed to include them. Many United States nonprofits are led by individuals, institutions, and foundations that do not represent their beneficiaries.
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This means Black Executive Directors are thrust into roles where they often feel isolated. That’s why we’re creating local chapters for directors to connect socially and professionally to share thoughts, ideas, and resources to build the community they deserve.
CAPITAL

Organizations led by people of color receive less funding than majority white-led organizations, according to a new study published in May 2020 by Bridgespan and Echoing Green, “Racial Equity in Philanthropy: Closing the Fund Gap.”
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We’re going to work towards bridging the funding gap by establishing relationships with local and national funders and providing our members a seat at the table not only to eat but have the same portion sizes.
CULTIVATION

Throughout time, black professionals have racially fought power dynamics in both nonprofit and for-profit spaces. Many have been overlooked and undervalued not because of their skills and expertise but only because of their skin color.
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According to the Race to Lead Report, even if they have attained advanced degrees or the highest certifications, black high-level executives still express that they feel they need to provide for themselves or feel inadequate compared to their white counterparts. We will provide learning and professional development opportunities through workshops, seminars, yearly conferences, and mentorship with other black executives who have navigated or continue to navigate successfully in the sector through our cultivation program.