Meyer Foundation January 2009 E-Newsletter Features NPower GDCR President

Q. What does NPower Greater DC Region do?

A. We manage technology for nonprofits so that they can focus on the critical work they do in our community--feeding the homeless, teaching kids to read, or protecting the environment. We build and maintain their networks, help them select the right software to meet their needs, and guide them in planning and budgeting for technology. We help them figure out how to use technology so that they can do their important work more effectively.

Q. What are some of the observations you have about nonprofits, technology, and entrepreneurship?

A. Many nonprofit leaders are terrific entrepreneurs - you have to be in order to make these organizations do so much with so little. As for technology, the typical level of tech resources in nonprofits is very low relative to the private sector. Hardware is outdated, support is spotty, and training on technology for staff is nonexistent. Few organizations have a technology plan as part of their operational or strategic plan. While there are some exceptions, many nonprofits are not yet taking real advantage of the benefits of technology to help them run their operations better. Of course, our work at NPower is all about working with nonprofits to change this.

Q. You came from the for profit world. What are the differences you see between for profit and nonprofit organizations?

A. In the for profit world, you have a lot more resources at your disposal. You really have to do more with less in the nonprofit sector, which can be a lesson for corporations in these leaner times. The passion and the commitment to mission in the nonprofit sector are so impressive and they bring out the best in people. However, there is often more accountability, particularly to financial measurements in the for profit world which often results in more disciplined way of operating. At NPower, we try to bring the best of both these worlds together.

Q. How has the economic downturn impacted your clients? Have you made any changes in the way you do business because of the downturn?

A. Our clients, like everyone else, are scrutinizing their spending and thinking very carefully about any investments. The most thoughtful ones are making contingency plans and have consulted us on how to trim costs. Times like these mean you need to get back to basics and maintaining your infrastructure becomes even more important.

Q. Tell us about your awards program.

A. We showcase the innovative use of technology by area nonprofits. We recruit technology execs from the industry and government to serve as the judges for tech innovations which are submitted by area nonprofits. The winners receive a strategic tech plan conducted by NPower tech staff which is underwritten by Accenture. They also receive a very generous contribution of software from Microsoft.

Q. If you had a chance to talk to President-Elect Obama, what do you want him tow about the Greater Washington region's nonprofit sector?

A. Our local nonprofit sector is so vibrant and full of committed and talented people who are addressing important problems in thoughtful and creative ways. There are great lessons to be learned from these organizations than can be applied to addressing pressing problems faced across our country.

Q. What are you currently reading?

A. On the serious side, I am reading Hot, Flat, and Crowded by Thomas Friedman which is about the green revolution. I am usually reading something light at the same time that takes me out of my usual world-a mystery, a travel book, or a great story. I am just finishing up Water for Elephants which is fantastical and very engaging.