NEP Services: Transforming the Future of the Non-Profit Sector with Advanced Technology and Experienced Leadership Team

Sometimes, true innovation doesn’t just come from the biggest names in tech but from where you least expect it. At NEP Services, CEO Stacey Yudin and the newly appointed CTO Shubhangi Srivastava are reshaping how nonprofits embrace digital transformation. In a sector that’s crucial yet often overlooked, they are advancing technology and also paving the way for women in leadership roles, making significant strides in a field that needs them the most. In 2024 Fast Company recobnized NEP Services as one of the  Most Innovative companies.

Introducing NEP Services.

When you think of digital innovation, nonprofits might not be the first thing that comes to mind. NEP Services is changing that narrative. Established in 1997 in California, this company has become a key player in helping nonprofits, including unions, educational groups, and essential services, step confidently into the digital age. 

Stacey Yudin, CEO of NEP Services, explains the core functionality of their platform, “The company’s proprietary Connect Plus+ communications platform is an all-in-one solution for seamless community management, communication, and empowerment.” Their impact is particularly notable with organizations like Cal Fires, providing them with the tools needed to better manage resources and engage with the community. Essentially, NEP Services blends technology and social good, making it easier for nonprofits to connect and succeed.

Stacey Yudin: Steering the Digital Shift

Stacey Yudin leads NEP Services with a vision to transform how nonprofits engage with technology. With a diverse background spanning the healthcare sector to consumer products, Stacey brings a unique blend of expertise to the tech world. Her leadership has propelled NEP Services into new heights of innovation, earning recognition as one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies of 2024. 

Stacey shares her philosophy, “Innovating with purpose is at our core. We identify key problem areas unions and nonprofits struggle with in their fundraising, communication, and day-to-day operations, and then leverage innovative technology to solve them.” Yet, her commitment goes beyond business; it’s about making technology work for community building and social impact.

Shubhangi Srivastava: A New Direction in Tech

Shubhangi Srivastava recently stepped into the role of CTO at NEP Services, bringing a fresh perspective from her extensive background in software engineering. Shubhangi’s journey from a small town in India to leading tech projects in the U.S. is not just about advancing her career but about using technology to make a tangible difference. Under her leadership, NEP Services continues to innovate, especially with the flagship Connect Plus+ platform. 

Reflecting on her new role, Shubhangi states, “My role as CTO is a testament to the transformative power of hard work and an insatiable thirst for knowledge. It’s a journey that continues to unfold, developing NEP Services’ innovation – a testament to growth and dedication in advancing tech for business.”

Innovative Tech at NEP Services

As we mentioned earlier, Connect Plus+ is at the heart of NEP Services’ innovative efforts and is making a big impact in the nonprofit world. This platform is designed to simplify complex tasks like fundraising and community management, making them easy for everyone to handle, not just the tech experts. For nonprofits looking to grow their reach or streamline their operations, Connect Plus+ offers a comprehensive toolkit that turns ideas into action. This practical use of technology helps NEP’s clients build stronger community ties and hit their fundraising targets more effectively.

In 2023, NEP Services worked to streamline the union and nonprofit organization process through the launch of ConnectPlus+, a cloud-based communications platform. 

ConnectPlus+ integrates all community communications into one service, letting members and leadership get in touch efficiently and securily. Key features include push notifications for sending real-time updates, calendar events to organize meetings, security measures to ensure that internal communications stay private, and a mobile-friendly design. 

Stacey Yudin, CEO of NEP Services, puts it best: “The company’s proprietary Connect Plus+ communications platform is an all-in-one solution for seamless community management, communication, and empowerment.”

More than 700 customers hav adopted ConnectPlus+ including San Diego City Firefighters Local 145 and Yonkers Uniformed Fire Officers Association, as well as such police unions as the Milwaukee Police Association and the Palo Alto Police Association.

Promoting Women in Technology

NEP Services isn’t just talking about diversity; they’re living it and setting a powerful example for others to follow. In fact, their dedication to supporting women in technology is evident throughout the organization. With five out of six directors being women, NEP Services is setting a new standard for inclusive leadership in a field where women are often underrepresented. Let’s take a look at their key Initiatives and impact.

• Leadership Composition: More than 83% of NEP Services’ leadership roles are held by women, far exceeding the tech industry average of around 28%, according to the National Center for Women & Information Technology.

• Mentorship Programs: NEP Services has established comprehensive mentorship programs that pair emerging female tech professionals with seasoned leaders within the company. This initiative boosts career development and ensures that knowledge and experiences are passed down, fostering a culture of continuous learning and empowerment.

• Professional Development Opportunities: The company invests in targeted training programs designed to enhance technical and leadership skills among women. These include workshops on advanced software development, project management, and strategic leadership, all tailored to prepare women for upper management and executive roles.

• Scholarships and Grants: Recognizing the financial barriers that can hinder career advancement, NEP Services offers scholarships and grants to women pursuing advanced degrees in technology-related fields. This support extends beyond the company, impacting the broader tech community and encouraging more women to enter and excel in the field.

• Partnerships with Educational Institutions: NEP Services collaborates with universities and tech schools to create internships and cooperative education opportunities specifically for female students in STEM. These partnerships help bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world tech environments.

Culture and Innovation Under New Leadership

The recent shifts in leadership at NEP Services have infused the company with fresh ideas and a renewed focus on innovation. Under the guidance of Stacey Yudin and Shubhangi Srivastava, the company culture has evolved to prioritize creative problem-solving and agile responses to challenges. This dynamic environment fosters innovation and empowers every team member to contribute to the company’s mission. It’s a culture where new ideas are encouraged, and taking calculated risks is part of daily business, driving NEP Services forward as a leader in nonprofit technology solutions.

Recognition and Awards

NEP Services has certainly made a mark in both the tech and nonprofit sectors. Their innovative efforts were recently honored with a spot on Fast Company’s list of the Most Innovative Companies of 2024, showcasing their significant contributions alongside some of the biggest names in the industry. This recognition isn’t just a pat on the back; it’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire team at NEP Services. Here are some of the key awards and recognitions they have received:

• Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies of 2024: Highlighting their cutting-edge approach to nonprofit technology.

• Tech for Good Awards: Acknowledging their impactful use of technology to facilitate community empowerment and engagement.

• Tech In MotionTimmy Award:  Award Best Tech Work Culture 

• Nonprofit Tech Innovation Award: Recognizing specific innovations in their Connect Plus+ platform that have transformed nonprofit operations.

• Community Impact Award: Celebrating their significant contributions to local communities, particularly through their fundraising and engagement platforms.

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, NEP Services is set on not just maintaining but expanding their influence in the nonprofit sector. In fact, the team is always looking for new ways to enhance their technology and its impact. Stacey Yudin outlines their commitment and achievements: “NEP Services is empowering communities across the United States. To date, we have helped our clients in 37 states raise $65M for local communities, while our Help a Hero crowdfunding campaigns have raised $7M for emergency responders in need.” It’s clear to see they are focused on providing the tools needed to help non-profits grow and make an impact on their community.

Concluding Thoughts

At the end of the day, NEP Services stands out in a sector often overlooked by mainstream tech advancements. Through their technology, leadership, and unwavering focus on community impact, they demonstrate what is possible when technology meets humanity. As they continue to break barriers and set new standards, NEP Services not only supports the here and now of nonprofits but also paves the way for a future where these organizations are equipped to meet challenges head-on with cutting-edge solutions.