Youthnet evolved from the Standing Conference of Youth Organisations, which had its roots in the voluntary sector and can be traced back to the 1940s. Following a period of continuous development Youthnet was established as a registered charity and company limited by guarantee in 1991.

Youthnet membership covers a wide range of organisations working with children and young people, from long-established organisations through to newly emerged organisations. Member organisations work with a diverse range of young people and vary in size, structure and capacity.

Youthnet has also been involved in the delivery of EU Peace Funds since 1995 and is currently a Delivery Partner in the Youth Education Social Inclusion Partnership led by SELB for the implementation of the Young People Building Positive Relations Project.

In 2006, Youthnet became the lead partner in The Big Deal - a programme funded by The Big Lottery, which aims to promote youth inclusion and targets resources at those young people at greatsest risk of excusion and offending.