Blue Octopus Consulting Launches Peer Network for Virginia Nonprofit Leaders

RICHMOND, VA – (Thursday, January 8, 2026) – Blue Octopus Consulting is proud to launch The Current, a peer network designed to bring together Virginia nonprofit leaders for learning, connection, and sharing resources.

Created for nonprofit leaders navigating familiar challenges such as board governance, compliance requirements, funding pressures, program development, and organizational transitions, The Current will feature six expert-led sessions throughout 2026. Each session will include subject-matter experts and facilitated discussion, providing members with opportunities to share experiences, learn from peers, and apply practical solutions directly to their organizations. Beyond the training, each session includes refreshments and time to connect, because building community matters as much as building skills.

“After 25 years in the nonprofit sector, I’ve learned the best ideas and solutions come from a conversation with someone who’s been there,” said Laura Bennett, Co-Founder of Blue Octopus Consulting. “The Current is about creating those conversations, giving Virginia nonprofit leaders a space to learn, share what’s working, what isn’t, and know they’ve got a community that has their back.”

The inaugural session, Cover Your Assets: Essential Nonprofit Compliance, will be led by Bennett, a BoardSource Certified nonprofit compliance expert, on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. at Libbie Mill Library (2100 Libbie Lake E St, Richmond). Sponsored by Trustward, this month’s training will focus on regulatory requirements, common compliance risks, and best practices for board oversight.

“At Trustward, we see every day how much stronger nonprofits are when they’re not going it alone,” said Stephen Weir, Trustward CEO & Owner. “We’re honored to be the presenting sponsor of The Current’s inaugural session and to support a network that’s bringing Virginia’s nonprofit leaders together.”

The session is open to all, but seating is limited. More information and registration details are available at: blueoctopus.consulting/the-current/.

About Trustward

Trustward is a Richmond-based accounting firm specializing in bookkeeping, complex accounting, and financial reporting for mission-driven organizations. With over 110 nonprofits served and $350 million in annual budgets under management, Trustward helps nonprofit leaders delegate financial operations to experts so they can focus on advancing their mission. The firm’s services include audit preparedness, tax compliance, and strategic financial guidance designed specifically for the nonprofit sector.

About Blue Octopus Consulting

A women-owned small business co-founded by Laura Bennett and Shelley Sowers, Blue Octopus Consulting offers a wide range of consulting services tailored to nonprofits, small businesses, and government agencies. With over 45 years of combined experience, Blue Octopus Consulting offers expertise across eight key service areas: operations, marketing and communications, event planning, brand strategy, data, project management, strategic planning, and board development. Inspired by the octopus’s ability to adapt and thrive in any environment, Blue Octopus Consulting brings the same agility and creativity to help organizations navigate the waves or explore new depths. Learn more at www.blueoctopus.consulting.