Skip to content
Valerie Nicholson-Watson leads professional development for Executive Director Institute

Executive Director Institute

The Executive Director Institute (EDI) is an extended learning opportunity exclusively for nonprofit executive directors. Course content weaves together theory, experience and context to help leaders evolve, keep up with best practices and learn new ways to creatively deal with the full range of organizational issues.

2025 Executive Director Institute | Members Only - $1,200

Selection for participation in EDI is by application only. The application deadline for the 2025 cohort has now ENDED. To be considered for our 2026 cohort, please fill out this short application form.

Executive Director Institute Structure

In 2025, Nonprofit Connect will host one Executive Director Institute, which will be held in-person.

2025 Dates

In-Person Dates and Times:

The in-person EDI will meet once monthly on Tuesdays from 9:00-4:00 PM at Nonprofit Connect's Office at 1703 Wyandotte, Suite 100, Kansas City, MO 64108. The in-person session will take place on the following dates:

  • January 28
  • February 25
  • March 25
  • April 22
  • May 20
  • June 24

Executive Director Institute curriculum includes:

  • Nonprofit Trends
  • Leadership Challenges and Opportunities
  • Operations
  • Board Management
  • Strategic Planning
  • Resource & Fund Development
  • Marketing/Communications & Media Relations
  • Organization & Productivity
  • Stress Reduction & Work/Life Balance

At the end of Executive Director Institute, participants can expect to:

  • have increased leadership confidence and capacity,
  • know how to build relationships with board members,
  • have the tools to plan and manage a budget and the knowledge to guide a financially sustainable nonprofit,
  • learn the components of development and fundraising and the ED’s role in the development program,
  • have an understanding of communication strategies needed to reach new audiences and raise public awareness,
  • adapt to a changing and complex landscape,
  • and be energized for the long haul.

Guidelines for Executive Director Institute participation

  • Currently serve as a paid executive director, president or CEO of a nonprofit organization
  • Executive Director's organization must have tax exempt status at the time of application
  • Executive Director's organization must be or become a Nonprofit Connect member (Not yet a member? Learn more.)
  • Participants commit to attending all 6 sessions of the in person cohort.
  • Pay the tuition in full by January 6 to reserve a seat in the class