Part think-tank and part service organization, the National Network of Consultants to Grantmakers provides a learning community and a forum for open discussion among consultants dedicated to increasing and strengthening philanthropy. The Network's mission is to increase the quality, effectiveness and capacity of grantmakers by mobilizing and strengthening the work of knowledgeable, ethical and experienced consultants. NNCG offers resources, opportunities for engagement and access, and support for consultants seeking to hone best practices and increase their impact and that of their clients. It offers consultants a forum in which to convene and practice professional development, and it provides a national platform for cooperative involvement in addressing the principal issues, trends, and challenges that we face daily in the philanthropic field. NNCG is a direct response to the needs of grantmakers.

Philanthropy is a $308 billion-per-year industry, according to Giving USA in 2009. Some grantmakers find it increasingly challenging to identify experienced, ethical, high-quality consultants among the growing advisor population, some members of which may lack appropriate skills and standards. In response to this need, NNCG seeks to establish benchmarks of quality and tools for selecting excellent consultants. NNCG's new online searchable Directory of Consultants is one such tool, designed for use by grantmakers, media, and other consultants seeking complementary expertise or collaborators.

The Network thanks R. Christine Hershey and her firm, Hershey|Cause, for contributing the development of NNCG's identity system including our logo, letterhead, and website look.