ED Academy
Helping executive directors lead organizations to thrive
Organizations across the social sector are facing many challenges to their work. Burnout, high turnover, tight budgets and increasing caseloads are hampering the efforts of executive directors to effectively lead. United Way Maritimes supports the growth and capacity of the social sector, and we want to help.
ED Academy, first launched by United Way PEI in 2022, is a training program that aims to build on the skills and experience of executive directors. It provides them with the tools needed to support their success and create capacity within their organizations. The goal is to create a thriving sector, where staff are professionally trained and collaborate for good. For the first time ever, pending funding approvals, the ED Academy is preparing to launch in all three Maritime Provinces.
Who is this program for?
ED Academy is designed for new executive directors with under three years of experience who want to learn the skills to effectively lead their organization. Through a 12-month program with both virtual and in-person training, the program focuses on developing confident, capable leaders who can navigate the complexities of nonprofit management with assurance and strategic clarity.
Starting in April 2025, ED Academy offers a low-cost investment at only $1000 for the full program. With locations in all three Maritime provinces, the program includes:
- Monthly facilitated full-day training sessions (in-person)
- Monthly Office Hours (coaching) and Study Hall with dedicated time to do focused work alongside other participants (virtual)
- Six modules of self-directed learning in an online classroom
- 100+ on-demand tools, templates, and resources specific to the needs of not-for-profit organizations (e.g. policy manuals, budget templates, audit checklists, etc.)
- Access to a community portal where participants can interact in between the facilitated in-person sessions
- Customized training and support for their organizations
Participants can expect a time commitment of 12-15 hours per month, with one full day per month dedicated to in-person training.
Results of the program
By the end of the program, participants will feel more prepared to take on the challenges of nonprofit leadership. Whether it’s tackling difficult decisions, managing change, or building stronger relationships with stakeholders, students will foster growth within their organizations and gain a deeper understanding of governance, fundraising, strategic planning, and how to streamline their operations.
In addition to increasing their confidence and leadership skills, participants will develop or update essential core documents—such as an annual budget, operating plan, board calendar, and ED manual – designed to strengthen operational efficiency and long-term planning. These are skills and tools that are directly applicable to their day-to-day roles.
“Without this program, I don’t know if it would have made it through the last year.” – Cohort 1 participant
Learn more & apply today
Questions can be directed to Chelsie Nightingale by emailing Chelsie.nightingale@unitedwaymaritimes.ca
Ready to apply? Applications are now open. The deadline to apply is February 21, 2025, so don’t delay!
Funding Statement: The EDA start date is conditional upon the successful confirmation of funding.
