Broaden your expertise, elevate your performance and advance your career

Whether you want to learn new skills, do your job better, prepare for the next step in your career—or all three, the Center’s Executive Preparation Institute (EPI) can help you define and reach your professional goals. Participants have a chance to listen to industry experts about all facets of nonprofit leadership. The program is comprised of seminars, guest speakers, panel discussions and group interaction to ensure maximum learning.

This year, EPI will be taking place in a hybrid setting, with some sessions in-person, and others over Zoom. See the schedule below for exact dates.

Registration for the 2026 Cohort is now open!
As an EPI participant, you will:
  • Learn from nonprofit, government and corporate experts about a range of relevant topics, including nonprofit finances, budgeting, fundraising, board governance, leadership tips and tools, evaluations and how to tell your story.
  • Gain insights into your own and others' leadership styles through DISC Assessment.
  • Have access to other professional development courses through the Center's education program that will maximize your learning.
Program details

The EPI program convenes one Friday per month for six months, from 9:30am to 4:00pm. Topics typically include:

  • Day 1 (February 20): Introduction to Being a Nonprofit Leader; in-person
  • Day 2 (March 20): DISC Assessment
  • Day 3 (April 17): Crash Course in Nonprofit Boards
  • Day 4 (May 15): Finances & Fundraising; in-person
  • Day 5 (June 12): Strategic Planning & Program Evaluation
  • Day 6 (July 17): Coaching & Excellence; in-person

Who can attend: Nonprofit professionals at the management and senior level who are looking to enhance their leadership skills and take the next step into an executive role. (Executive directors are not eligible to join.)

Registration Fee*:
$1295 Nonmembers
$995 Center Members and YNPNdc Members

*Fee includes class sessions, books, testing instruments and a personal journal.

Cancellation: Due to dynamics of the program, refunds will only be provided to individuals who cancel in writing five (5) business days prior to the date of the first session.

Register Now!

Tuition assistance for Center members

A limited number of partial scholarships are available from Center partners. Please submit the following by Friday, February 13, 2026 to Sean Sweeney.

  • Up to 250-word statement indicating how you would leverage your experience as an EPI graduate to advance your organization and the region's nonprofit sector.
  • Indicate whether the balance of the registration fee would be paid by your organization or yourself personally.
  • Include your name, organization, title, email address, mailing address and telephone number. If you are not currently employed, please indicate your most recent job title and organizational affiliation.