The Neurodiversity Employment Network: Philadelphia (NENPHL) began as a small circle of people who kept meeting and asking the same question: how do we make it easier for neurodivergent people to find meaningful work in our region? What started as a grassroots working group grew into a nonprofit with a clear purpose. Our mission is simple and direct: we facilitate connections to increase meaningful employment opportunities for neurodivergent people.

We bring employers, educators, service providers, advocates, and job seekers into spaces where ideas turn into action. In 2025, that has included the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Summit at Villanova, Fostering Inclusive Talent Acquisition with CHOP and Philly SHRM, and Advancing Neurodivergent Leadership with the University of Delaware. These gatherings are built so that real connections are made, practical steps are identified, and organizations leave with tools they can use right away.

We are also launching the public Ecosystem Mapping Tool, a live resource where anyone can find Employer Engagement efforts, such as hiring initiatives and retention programs, and Organizational Expertise, such as workforce development or transition services. The tool turns scattered information into a regional network that people can navigate quickly, which makes it easier to collaborate and hire.

Here is how impact shows up:

Events average 4.9 out of 5 for relevance and value.
100% of participants consistently report that events have value and that they make meaningful connections. These connections can lead to contract work, business partnerships, and mentorship opportunities.
In 2024, we saw a 25% increase in organizational membership and an 83% retention rate. In 2025, we are seeing growth in higher education and nonprofit partnerships, and a doubling of individual memberships.

Every time someone meets the right person, learns about the right opportunity, or starts an inclusive practice inside their organization, we move closer to a regional workforce where neurodivergent professionals thrive. Your support helps make the next introduction possible.

We value partnerships across sectors because they are how real change happens. Our Know Your Rights Trivia Night (KYR) is a great example, bringing together Legal Clinic for the Disabled (LCD) and Young Involved Philadelphia (YIP) with NENPHL to connect communities, share knowledge, and open doors to employment.