our methodology
raising funds in values-aligned ways
We use community-centric values to apply our 5 Pillars of Great Fundraising:
Prospecting and one-to-one solicitation
Effective digital funnels and acquisition
Metrics-based one-to-many campaigns
Your organization’s unique value proposition
Modern and consistent branding
Learn our top tips through this workshop
We share our best tips to help you improve your fundraising, key messaging, and communications
Our Team
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Maria Rio
CEO & FOUNDER
Maria has over a decade of fundraising experience. She is a sought-after speaker on issues related to innovative stewardship, building relationships, and Community-Centric Fundraising. She has spoken at AFP ICON and Congress, for Imagine Canada, APRA, Xlerate, MNA, and more. She has been published nationally, and was a finalist for the national 2022 Charity Village Best Individual Fundraiser Award. Maria also hosts The Small Nonprofit podcast and sits on the Board of Living Wage Canada.
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Esther Saehyun Lee
CONSULTANT
Esther is a a fundraiser, storyteller, and advocate. She works to mobilize resources to communities and challenge and dismantle systems of power in the nonprofit sector to ground its practices towards equity and justice. She is dedicated to advancing the mission of equity in the nonprofit sector. She is a Community-Centric Fundraising (CCF) Global Council member and Interim Board Member of Association of Fundraising Professionals Greater Toronto Chapter.
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Caitlin McBride, CFRE
CONSULTANT
Caitlin is a Certified Fund Raising Executive with over a decade of fundraising and communications experience. Her work has ranged from large-scale nonprofit organizations in the UK to grassroots charities in Canada. She is a published writer and holds a postgraduate diploma in Professional Communications from Douglas College. Caitlin also sits on the board of New Westminster Family Place in beautiful British Columbia.
Our Values
Centering
Community
Our approach is deeply rooted in community-centric principles. Social justice is a core value of our work, and thus our approach is based on dignity, community, authenticity, and centering lived experience.
advocacy
Education and advocacy are key pillars of our approach. We encourage ongoing learning and the use of our talents as a means for advocacy.
Innovation
Innovation and adaptability are central to our workstyle. We want to make change in the sector.
transparency+
Accountability
We believe in transparency and accountability - internally and externally.
Work Hard,
Play Hard
We value creating supportive, fun, and goal-driven environments, where everyone feels psychologically safe to participate and voice their opinion.
Empowerment
We believe in empowering nonprofits with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive without the support of consultants.