By Invitation Only

The consultants we would call ourselves

The Kitchen Garden Network is a small, invitation-only circle of independent consultants who serve nonprofits, foundations and mission-driven businesses. Every member is someone another member has worked beside and would send a client to without a second thought.

Why It Exists

When a nonprofit needs outside help, it is hard to know who is really doing good work. Anybody can get on a list, paid networks are pay to play and the loudest names are not always the best ones. We know people who are better than the ones getting brought in, so we put them in one place where you can find them.

For Nonprofits

A public directory, opening January 2027, of consultants who have been vetted by people who have seen their work up close. Search by the kind of help you need, reach out to a member directly and know that nobody paid to be listed and nobody is paid for sending you there.

For Consultants

A trusted bench of peers. Members refer work to each other, partner on projects and meet once a month to share what they know. There are no dues, no referral fees and no paid placements and there never will be.

Good people doing good things.

How a Seat Is Earned

Free and Vetted

Nobody applies and nobody buys a seat. Erin Peshoff, Founder of Vivid Operational Advisors, reviews every one herself.

Invited

A member who has seen your work up close puts your name forward.

Real Work Shared

You share one thing you fixed and what changed after, with client names left out.

Seat Saved

Once it is vetted, your card goes in the directory.

What We Look For

Consultants only. Software companies, platforms and vendors sit outside the network.
Someone has seen your work: a shared client, a real handoff or something you built.
A member would send you a client and stand behind it.
You have already given: sent work, opened a door or shared what you know.
You follow the AFP Code of Ethical Standards, including how you get paid.

How We Keep It Trustworthy

No money changes hands between members for referrals, ever.
When a member refers you, they tell you how they know the consultant and that nobody is being paid for the introduction.
Members check in once a quarter to stay in good standing.
The network will never grow past twenty-five seats.
A seat means members trust the work. It is not a guarantee, so clients still do their own homework.