History & Our Name
Our History
Our experience partnering with nonprofit and other cause-related organizations began in 1995 as the nonprofit practice of NMP, then AppNet and Commerce One Global Consulting Services.
In 2001 a group of colleagues in Commerce One's nonprofit consulting practice discussed their vision for a new company. Although their views, experiences and talents were diverse, they shared one common, powerful idea: that there was a real need in the nonprofit community for expert, objective, results-oriented technology consulting, and that no company on the scene was committed to serving that need.
In October, 2001, Beaconfire Consulting was formed when the nonprofit consulting services practice of Commerce One spun off from the company. Wholly independent, separately capitalized and privately held, the new company combined outstanding technological resources with the guiding vision, passion and purpose of the new owners.
Today our clients include a wide range of nonprofit, non-governmental organizations, including charities, foundations and member-based groups. Our business has been, and remains, focused on helping our clients make a difference in their cause through the smart use of technology.
Our Name
In ancient times beacon fires were a way of sending messages. Set high on hillsides, they signaled the way home to travelers and ships at sea, alerted neighboring communities to dangers or other important news, and helped unite disparate peoples across boundaries and geographies. With their bright light, they helped to cut through the darkness — informing, inspiring, illuminating.
We chose the name Beaconfire to reflect our deep commitment to helping nonprofits successfully navigate the increasingly complex world of technology. Today with more choices, channels and technologies than ever, the need for bright ideas, good direction and clear vision is greater than ever. Our bright light is fired by our ideas and experience, and fueled by the energy, passion and purpose we get from our clients, every day.