About us

A reliable partner for nonprofits and small businesses

Dedicated to helping purpose-driven teams build capacity with simple solutions.

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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

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woman

woman

Experience and Results

About Dept. 1 Solutions

I started Dept.1 Solutions to give practical, affordable support to purpose-driven teams. After years in corporate consulting, I saw how often small to midsize businesses and nonprofits were underserved and overcharged. I wanted to bring affordable operations expertise to organizations that value impact.

Dept.1 was formed in 2019. Today, we deliver assessments, systems implementations, process improvement, and clear standard procedures your team can follow. We handle discovery, setup, documentation, and training so your people can work with confidence.

We work by three simple principles: value, price transparency, and incremental delivery. Before starting a new project with us, we will always define the outcomes and the clear steps to achieve them. The result is cleaner operations, stronger systems, and more time for the work that matters.

Contact Information

dylan@dept1solutions.com

Headquartered in White Bear Lake, MN

Headquartered in White Bear Lake, MN

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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.

Incremental Steps

We deliver in manageable, clear steps, à la carte rather than all or nothing.

FAQ's
Frequently
Asked Questions
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.

Let’s make it happen

White Bear Lake, Minnesota

Let’s make it happen

White Bear Lake, Minnesota

Let’s make it happen

White Bear Lake, Minnesota