Find Your Starting Point
Take the self-assessment to see how your organization is currently embracing the Standards for Excellence code. The Self-Assessment is a free online tool for nonprofit leaders who want to measure their organization’s adherence to the benchmarks in the Standards for Excellence code.
Decide Your Tier
Nonprofits of all sizes and mission areas can start at any tier. The Institute offers three tiers of Recognition and Accreditation.
Put in place strong policies for good governance and legal compliance. Also, put in place a well-defined mission with impactful programs.
Applicants will undergo a review by Standards for Excellence Institute staff prior to recognition at the Basics tier. Organizations earning Basics recognition are permitted to utilize the Basics recognition seal in their work
All of the first tier, plus ensure your organization is inclusive of the community served, you hold strategic and effective board meetings, and programs are attentive to strategic issues and trends in the community.
Applicants will undergo a two-stage review by Standards for Excellence Institute staff and the national Standards for Excellence Council. Organizations earning Basics enhanced recognition are permitted to utilize the Basics enhanced recognition seal in their work
Applicants at this tier must demonstrate that they meet all benchmarks in the Standards for Excellence code.
Organizations interested in becoming fully accredited by the Standards for Excellence Institute submit to a three-stage independent review process by Standards for Excellence Institute staff, a panel of trained peer reviewers, and the national Standards for Excellence Council. Accredited organizations have permission to use the Seal of Excellence, a symbol the public and donors can trust.
Gather ResourcesThese contain best practice information, in an easy-to-use format, including practical documents like model procedures and sample policies.
Note: you will need to join the Standards for Excellence Institute to get access to the packets. Institute members also receive discounted application and licensing fees on accreditation and recognition.
Standards for Excellence Licensed Consultants across the country are independent consultants who have extensive Standards training to help nonprofits implement the Standards and apply for accreditation or recognition.
Organizations across the nation partner with the Standards for Excellence Institute as “Replication Partners” to offer the Standards program to their communities. Check to see if you are eligible to work with one of these partner organizations.
View the list of Replication Partners
We offer in-person and online training for organizations implementing the Standards or working on their applications.
Start Your Application
Compile your application for Standards for Excellence accreditation or recognition in the online application system. You’ll upload all of the required documents, policies, and materials to support your application.
It is free to fill out the application but you will pay an application fee when you submit your application.
Some application tips:
