Community Sector Network of PEI is a voice for non-profits across the Island

The Community Sector Network (CSNPEI) was formed in 2018 following decades of advocacy and collaboration amongst several individuals and non-profit organizations. It is an Island-wide organization that includes non-profits from the arts, environment, sport, social services, youth, health, animal welfare, education, and others.

With a vision of creating a sustainable and valued community sector, CSNPEI empowers organizations through collective advocacy and strategic collaboration.

CSNPEI’s core values – Collaboration, Courage, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, and Transparency – guide all their initiatives and interactions. They focus on enhancing existing resources rather than reinventing them, aiming to unify the vast array of support, organizations, and resources available across the Island to build a stronger collective voice.

There are numerous ways to engage with CSNPEI, whether by becoming a member, participating in their programs, or attending workshops and events!

The benefits of joining CSNPEI

CSNPEI invites volunteer groups, non-profit organizations, charities, social networks, and other community groups interested in strengthening their capacities to explore membership with CSNPEI.

• Connect with the Nonprofit Community: Gain access to the CSNPEI Forum, priority access and discounts for events, and networking opportunities.
• Advocate for Your Priorities: Share your organization’s priorities and participate in focus groups, committees, and surveys that shape our sector.
• Increase Visibility and Credibility: Enjoy a personalized organization profile in our online directory, free postings on job and event boards, and discounts such as 50% off Synergy Screens.
• Access Essential Tools for Success: Leverage governance resources, receive discounts on Grant Connect subscriptions, and save on services like Brand Therapy with J.Adams Company.

“I would be more than happy to meet with groups interested in learning more about CSNPEI and the benefits of membership. There is a growing database of resources, perks and upcoming workshops that may be helpful to non-profit or charity organizations. These are often free or at a minimal cost to members.” says Membership Coordinator Ezra Santana.

The annual membership fee to join CSNPEI varies from $50 to $200, depending on the number of full-time, year-round employees. Volunteer led and community led organizations can join for free.

New Shared Services Program

On top of its membership, in spring 2025, CSNPEI is set to launch a Shared Services Program (SSP) designed to strengthen the nonprofit sector in PEI by helping organizations extend capacity, reduce administrative costs, and enhance operational efficiency. Organizations can streamline their operations in areas such as Finance (Bookkeeping & CFO), Human Resources, Marketing & Communication, IT Support, Fundraising, and many more.

Organizations gain access to a dedicated Navigator for personalized support and high- quality administrative services from a pool of trusted specialists who are carefully vetted based on their expertise, quality of service, and understanding of the community.

For more information visit https://csnpei.com/ssp or contact Haley Ha, Shared Services Navigator at hha@csnpei.com.

Achieving Success through Community Engagement & Development (ASCEND)

ASCEND is another program of CSNPEI. Funded by the Government of Canada and led by Community Sector Council Newfoundland and Labrador (CSCNL), ASCEND is delivered in partnership with Community Sector Network PEI (CSNPEI) and Impact Organizations of Nova Scotia (IONS). This initiative provides meaningful employment opportunities for youth aged 15-30 who are Not in Employment, Education, or Training (NEET), while strengthening the community sector.

Through provincial minimum wage subsidized 19 to 21-week work placements in community sector organizations, ASCEND gives youth the hands-on experience, mentorship, and career development they need to succeed. Before placements begin, participants complete two weeks of career and personal development training, equipping them with the skills and confidence to thrive in the workforce.

For more information, visit https://joinascend.ca

Social Enterprise Program

Similarly, CSNPEI’s social enterprise program is designed to help non-profit leaders and aspiring social entrepreneurs launch and grow impactful ventures on Prince Edward Island. Through a dynamic webinar series led by industry experts, participants gain essential insights into business planning, impact measurement, financial sustainability, and more. Additionally, our Social Entrepreneur Incubator provides hands-on mentorship and resources to support innovative ideas that balance social good with financial viability.

Whether you’re just starting or looking to scale, this program offers the tools and guidance needed to create lasting change.

For more information, visit https://csnpei.com/social-enterprise

You Are The Expert Workshop Series

At CSNPEI we believe that everyone has something valuable to share, that’s why we created the You are the Expert series! Whether you have specialized skills, valuable insights, or simply a passion you want to share, we invite you to step into the spotlight and share your expertise with others. Our team will take care of all the logistics, you only need to bring your expertise.

Participants benefit by learning new skills, connecting with like-minded people, and contributing to an inclusive culture of lifelong learning. Apply now and help us showcase that everyone’s expertise has the power to inspire others.

For more information, visit https://csnpei.com/workshopseries