For nonprofit and values-driven businesses
Helping nonprofits build capacity practically.
We help lean teams build the clarity, structure, and technology they need to grow without burning out or breaking the budget.
TESTIMONIALS
TESTIMONIALS
Missions we serve
How we helped transformed orgs like yours
How we helped transformed orgs like yours
We had some work done several years ago but we weren't getting all of the information we needed. We'd been dealing with this for about seven years. Now everything is aligned and synced together - it's been nothing but a pleasure.
Sarah Lewis
Program Specialist, LegalCORPS
Our entire staff and board members have to report on the work they're doing. The problem was I was the one who had to enter all this data. Having a tool to do this is a great integration into our daily work.
Leika Pierre-Louis
Executive Director, Small Sums
Our database was confusing. The data that was there wasn't really helpful - it was a waste of time and resources. Now I have an accurate and helpful list that makes sense and can be much more strategic.
Ellen Walthour
Executive Director, Social Venture Partners Minnesota
We needed to think about what systems we needed in place in order to be successful. We came out the other side really having clarity on what the next steps we’re going to be.
Jennie Lynch
President, Kaleidoscope Learning
Having someone ask questions we wouldn't have considered - with expertise our team may not have… Dept.1 not only delivered on their promises but made us much more productive and reflective.
Julia Kallmes
Founder, Kaleidoscope Learning
I was in pure chaos mode. I wasn't sure what our priorities were to focus on. We went through all of my major concerns and walked through a timeline of priorities. It was very clear and very detailed.
Chrystal Fischer
Executive Director, Parenting with Grace
I was in pure chaos mode. I wasn't sure what our priorities were to focus on. We went through all of my major concerns and walked through a timeline of priorities. It was very clear and very detailed.
Chrystal Fischer
Executive Director, Parenting with Grace
Having someone ask questions we wouldn't have considered - with expertise our team may not have… Dept.1 not only delivered on their promises but made us much more productive and reflective.
Julia Kallmes
Founder, Kaleidoscope Learning
We needed to think about what systems we needed in place in order to be successful. We came out the other side really having clarity on what the next steps we’re going to be.
Jennie Lynch
President, Kaleidoscope Learning
Our database was confusing. The data that was there wasn't really helpful - it was a waste of time and resources. Now I have an accurate and helpful list that makes sense and can be much more strategic.
Ellen Walthour
Executive Director, Social Venture Partners Minnesota
Our entire staff and board members have to report on the work they're doing. The problem was I was the one who had to enter all this data. Having a tool to do this is a great integration into our daily work.
Leika Pierre-Louis
Executive Director, Small Sums
We had some work done several years ago but we weren't getting all of the information we needed. We'd been dealing with this for about seven years. Now everything is aligned and synced together - it's been nothing but a pleasure.
Sarah Lewis
Program Specialist, LegalCORPS
We had some work done several years ago but we weren't getting all of the information we needed. We'd been dealing with this for about seven years. Now everything is aligned and synced together - it's been nothing but a pleasure.
Sarah Lewis
Program Specialist, LegalCORPS
Our entire staff and board members have to report on the work they're doing. The problem was I was the one who had to enter all this data. Having a tool to do this is a great integration into our daily work.
Leika Pierre-Louis
Executive Director, Small Sums
Our database was confusing. The data that was there wasn't really helpful - it was a waste of time and resources. Now I have an accurate and helpful list that makes sense and can be much more strategic.
Ellen Walthour
Executive Director, Social Venture Partners Minnesota
We needed to think about what systems we needed in place in order to be successful. We came out the other side really having clarity on what the next steps we’re going to be.
Jennie Lynch
President, Kaleidoscope Learning
Having someone ask questions we wouldn't have considered - with expertise our team may not have… Dept.1 not only delivered on their promises but made us much more productive and reflective.
Julia Kallmes
Founder, Kaleidoscope Learning
I was in pure chaos mode. I wasn't sure what our priorities were to focus on. We went through all of my major concerns and walked through a timeline of priorities. It was very clear and very detailed.
Chrystal Fischer
Executive Director, Parenting with Grace
We had some work done several years ago but we weren't getting all of the information we needed. We'd been dealing with this for about seven years. Now everything is aligned and synced together - it's been nothing but a pleasure.
Sarah Lewis
Program Specialist, LegalCORPS
Our entire staff and board members have to report on the work they're doing. The problem was I was the one who had to enter all this data. Having a tool to do this is a great integration into our daily work.
Leika Pierre-Louis
Executive Director, Small Sums
Our database was confusing. The data that was there wasn't really helpful - it was a waste of time and resources. Now I have an accurate and helpful list that makes sense and can be much more strategic.
Ellen Walthour
Executive Director, Social Venture Partners Minnesota
We needed to think about what systems we needed in place in order to be successful. We came out the other side really having clarity on what the next steps we’re going to be.
Jennie Lynch
President, Kaleidoscope Learning
Having someone ask questions we wouldn't have considered - with expertise our team may not have… Dept.1 not only delivered on their promises but made us much more productive and reflective.
Julia Kallmes
Founder, Kaleidoscope Learning
I was in pure chaos mode. I wasn't sure what our priorities were to focus on. We went through all of my major concerns and walked through a timeline of priorities. It was very clear and very detailed.
Chrystal Fischer
Executive Director, Parenting with Grace
We had some work done several years ago but we weren't getting all of the information we needed. We'd been dealing with this for about seven years. Now everything is aligned and synced together - it's been nothing but a pleasure.
Sarah Lewis
Program Specialist, LegalCORPS
Our entire staff and board members have to report on the work they're doing. The problem was I was the one who had to enter all this data. Having a tool to do this is a great integration into our daily work.
Leika Pierre-Louis
Executive Director, Small Sums
Our database was confusing. The data that was there wasn't really helpful - it was a waste of time and resources. Now I have an accurate and helpful list that makes sense and can be much more strategic.
Ellen Walthour
Executive Director, Social Venture Partners Minnesota
We needed to think about what systems we needed in place in order to be successful. We came out the other side really having clarity on what the next steps we’re going to be.
Jennie Lynch
President, Kaleidoscope Learning
Having someone ask questions we wouldn't have considered - with expertise our team may not have… Dept.1 not only delivered on their promises but made us much more productive and reflective.
Julia Kallmes
Founder, Kaleidoscope Learning
I was in pure chaos mode. I wasn't sure what our priorities were to focus on. We went through all of my major concerns and walked through a timeline of priorities. It was very clear and very detailed.
Chrystal Fischer
Executive Director, Parenting with Grace
We had some work done several years ago but we weren't getting all of the information we needed. We'd been dealing with this for about seven years. Now everything is aligned and synced together - it's been nothing but a pleasure.
Sarah Lewis
Program Specialist, LegalCORPS
Our entire staff and board members have to report on the work they're doing. The problem was I was the one who had to enter all this data. Having a tool to do this is a great integration into our daily work.
Leika Pierre-Louis
Executive Director, Small Sums
Our database was confusing. The data that was there wasn't really helpful - it was a waste of time and resources. Now I have an accurate and helpful list that makes sense and can be much more strategic.
Ellen Walthour
Executive Director, Social Venture Partners Minnesota
We needed to think about what systems we needed in place in order to be successful. We came out the other side really having clarity on what the next steps we’re going to be.
Jennie Lynch
President, Kaleidoscope Learning
Having someone ask questions we wouldn't have considered - with expertise our team may not have… Dept.1 not only delivered on their promises but made us much more productive and reflective.
Julia Kallmes
Founder, Kaleidoscope Learning
I was in pure chaos mode. I wasn't sure what our priorities were to focus on. We went through all of my major concerns and walked through a timeline of priorities. It was very clear and very detailed.
Chrystal Fischer
Executive Director, Parenting with Grace
Why Choose Us?
More than a typical consultant
More than a typical consultant
More than a typical consultant
Clients in 2025
Clients in 2025
Clients in 2025
+
Years of Experience
+
Years of Experience
+
Years of Experience
%
Locally Owned and Managed
%
Locally Owned and Managed
%
Locally Owned and Managed
WHAT WE DO
WHAT WE DO
About
I started Dept.1 Solutions to make consulting practical and accessible for small teams and community-based nonprofits. After spending years in corporate consulting, I saw how often purpose-driven organizations were overlooked or overcharged. I wanted to change that.
Today, I help teams find clarity, streamline operations, and build systems that make their work easier and their impact stronger. Every project is grounded in three principles: Value, Transparency, and Incremental Progress. You’ll always know what you’re getting, what it costs, and how it moves you forward.
— Dylan Bassett, Founder
Mission & Values
Dept.1 leads with integrity and practicality, shaping strategy into simple steps your team can sustain.
Deliver High Value
Deliver
High Value
Every project is defined by the outcomes it creates, time saved, costs reduced, and stronger fundraising results.
Price Transparency
You know exactly what you are getting, and exactly what it will cost, before we start.
Small Steps
We deliver in manageable, clear steps, à la carte rather than all or nothing.
Small Steps
We deliver in manageable, clear steps, à la carte rather than all or nothing.
Price Transparency
You know exactly what you are getting, and exactly what it will cost, before we start.
Deliver High Value
Every project is defined by the outcomes it creates, time saved, costs reduced, and stronger fundraising results.
WHAT WE DO
About
I started Dept.1 Solutions to make consulting practical and accessible for small teams and community-based nonprofits. After spending years in corporate consulting, I saw how often purpose-driven organizations were overlooked or overcharged. I wanted to change that.
Today, I help teams find clarity, streamline operations, and build systems that make their work easier and their impact stronger. Every project is grounded in three principles: Value, Transparency, and Incremental Progress. You’ll always know what you’re getting, what it costs, and how it moves you forward.
— Dylan Bassett, Founder
How it works
Working with Dept.1 is designed to be clear, collaborative, and capacity-conscious from the very start. Here’s what the process typically looks like:
01
Book a quick call
Every engagement begins with a quick intro to understand your goals and pain points. We can normally provide a preliminary estimate of timeline and budget, plus a brief written summary of our conversation to share internally with your team or board.
02
Get the info you need for a decision
If we decide to move forward, we’ll schedule a 60-minute discovery call to dig deeper into your priorities. From there, you’ll receive a one-page proposal outlining the problem, the scope of our solution, and a fixed-bid budget.
03
Get to work
Once the proposal is approved, we begin building by working side-by-side with your team to implement the agreed-upon scope. You’ll receive regular updates that respect your time, along with clear documentation to support self-sufficiency after launch.
04
Ongoing support for your team
After implementation, we don’t disappear. We stay involved through stabilization and support, ensuring staff confidence and addressing any final tweaks or defects.
How it works
Working with Dept.1 is designed to be clear, collaborative, and capacity-conscious from the very start. Here’s what the process typically looks like:
01
Book a quick call
Every engagement begins with a quick intro to understand your goals and pain points. We can normally provide a preliminary estimate of timeline and budget, plus a brief written summary of our conversation to share internally with your team or board.
02
Get the info you need for a decision
If we decide to move forward, we’ll schedule a 60-minute discovery call to dig deeper into your priorities. From there, you’ll receive a one-page proposal outlining the problem, the scope of our solution, and a fixed-bid budget.
03
Get to work
Once the proposal is approved, we begin building by working side-by-side with your team to implement the agreed-upon scope. You’ll receive regular updates that respect your time, along with clear documentation to support self-sufficiency after launch.
04
Ongoing support for your team
After implementation, we don’t disappear. We stay involved through stabilization and support, ensuring staff confidence and addressing any final tweaks or defects.
How it works
Working with Dept.1 is designed to be clear, collaborative, and capacity-conscious from the very start. Here’s what the process typically looks like:
01
Book a quick call
Every engagement begins with a quick intro to understand your goals and pain points. We can normally provide a preliminary estimate of timeline and budget, plus a brief written summary of our conversation to share internally with your team or board.
02
Get the info you need for a decision
If we decide to move forward, we’ll schedule a 60-minute discovery call to dig deeper into your priorities. From there, you’ll receive a one-page proposal outlining the problem, the scope of our solution, and a fixed-bid budget.
03
Get to work
Once the proposal is approved, we begin building by working side-by-side with your team to implement the agreed-upon scope. You’ll receive regular updates that respect your time, along with clear documentation to support self-sufficiency after launch.
04
Ongoing support for your team
After implementation, we don’t disappear. We stay involved through stabilization and support, ensuring staff confidence and addressing any final tweaks or defects.
"Dept.1 understands data, they understand project management. This is my vision and I could trust they would deliver within the way we work and that it would be good for Small Sums. Knowing they had all the expertise made it seamless. I was very impressed with how quickly we were able to turn it around. I just feel like I didn’t have to do much to get an amazing product. Having someone that’s not in it all the time come in and say: “Have you ever thought about this?” - I value that a lot."
Leika Pierre-Louis
Executive Director, Small Sums
"Dept.1 understands data, they understand project management. This is my vision and I could trust they would deliver within the way we work and that it would be good for Small Sums. Knowing they had all the expertise made it seamless. I was very impressed with how quickly we were able to turn it around. I just feel like I didn’t have to do much to get an amazing product. Having someone that’s not in it all the time come in and say: “Have you ever thought about this?” - I value that a lot."
Leika Pierre-Louis
Executive Director, Small Sums
What we're up to
Insights to help your mission move forward
FAQ's
Frequently
Asked QuestionsWhat types of organizations do you work with?
We partner with small-to-midsize nonprofits and purpose-driven businesses that want practical, affordable consulting to get things done.
How is Dept.1 different from traditional consulting firms?
We focus on doing over talking. Our projects are 30–50% lower cost, lean on planning, and prioritize solutions your team can implement quickly.
What services do you offer?
We help organizations plan strategically, build systems, set up fundraising infrastructure, provide ongoing advisory support, and even offer pro-bono assessments for qualifying nonprofits.
How long does a typical project take?
Our engagements are designed to deliver results quickly. Planning and assessment projects usually run 6–8 weeks, while system implementations vary greatly depending on scope.
What free services do you provide?
We have a pro-bono program for nonprofits making under $200k/year. For these businesses, we provide a focused, no-cost review of strategy, systems, and fundraising to help you prioritize growth without straining your budget.
Is there a contract?
Yes, we use simple, clear agreements for all projects. They outline the scope, timeline, and fees (no hidden clauses or confusing legal jargon) so both sides know exactly what to expect.
How do we get started?
Just reach out via our Calendly link or contact form. We’ll set up a brief conversation to understand your needs and recommend the best next steps.
What types of organizations do you work with?
We partner with small-to-midsize nonprofits and purpose-driven businesses that want practical, affordable consulting to get things done.
How is Dept.1 different from traditional consulting firms?
We focus on doing over talking. Our projects are 30–50% lower cost, lean on planning, and prioritize solutions your team can implement quickly.
What services do you offer?
We help organizations plan strategically, build systems, set up fundraising infrastructure, provide ongoing advisory support, and even offer pro-bono assessments for qualifying nonprofits.
How long does a typical project take?
Our engagements are designed to deliver results quickly. Planning and assessment projects usually run 6–8 weeks, while system implementations vary greatly depending on scope.
What free services do you provide?
We have a pro-bono program for nonprofits making under $200k/year. For these businesses, we provide a focused, no-cost review of strategy, systems, and fundraising to help you prioritize growth without straining your budget.
Is there a contract?
Yes, we use simple, clear agreements for all projects. They outline the scope, timeline, and fees (no hidden clauses or confusing legal jargon) so both sides know exactly what to expect.
How do we get started?
Just reach out via our Calendly link or contact form. We’ll set up a brief conversation to understand your needs and recommend the best next steps.
What types of organizations do you work with?
We partner with small-to-midsize nonprofits and purpose-driven businesses that want practical, affordable consulting to get things done.
How is Dept.1 different from traditional consulting firms?
We focus on doing over talking. Our projects are 30–50% lower cost, lean on planning, and prioritize solutions your team can implement quickly.
What services do you offer?
We help organizations plan strategically, build systems, set up fundraising infrastructure, provide ongoing advisory support, and even offer pro-bono assessments for qualifying nonprofits.
How long does a typical project take?
Our engagements are designed to deliver results quickly. Planning and assessment projects usually run 6–8 weeks, while system implementations vary greatly depending on scope.
What free services do you provide?
We have a pro-bono program for nonprofits making under $200k/year. For these businesses, we provide a focused, no-cost review of strategy, systems, and fundraising to help you prioritize growth without straining your budget.
Is there a contract?
Yes, we use simple, clear agreements for all projects. They outline the scope, timeline, and fees (no hidden clauses or confusing legal jargon) so both sides know exactly what to expect.
How do we get started?
Just reach out via our Calendly link or contact form. We’ll set up a brief conversation to understand your needs and recommend the best next steps.
