11 Nonprofit consultants you should know

You’re facing a big challenge at your nonprofit organization, and you know you need help. But where do you go? How do you even start looking? 

Finding the right nonprofit consultant can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of outstanding nonprofit consultants and their areas of expertise, so you can find the right person for you.  

These professionals bring years of experience, deep expertise, and a passion for helping organizations thrive. Whether you’re looking to streamline your systems, develop a stellar strategic plan, or start a groundbreaking podcast—there’s an expert here who can get the results you need.  

1. Strategic planning and governance 

Consultant: Nic Gagliardi – Rise and Run 

Nic Gagliardi is an innovator, thought leader and a changemaker in the Canadian nonprofit sector. With a proven track record of helping nonprofits build practical, effective approaches that overcome our sector’s biggest barriers, Nic’s approach ensures clarity, direction, and long-term impact. If you are a small to mid-sized organization is looking to strengthen its foundation and develop a flexible action plan, Nic has the skills and insight to guide you every step of the way. 

2. Grant writing

Consultant: DeaRonda Harrison – June First Firm 

If you're aiming to secure substantial grants but don't have the time or expertise, DeaRonda Harrison of June First Firm is your go-to expert. Specializing in federal grant writing, DeaRonda offers comprehensive services to help nonprofits apply for and win six- to seven-figure awards. Beyond writing, she provides training programs like "Train Up Your Grant Writer™," empowering your team to successfully manage grant applications in-house. With a proven track record and personalized approach, DeaRonda is dedicated to enhancing your organization's funding potential. 

3. Fractional fundraising & interim leadership

Consultants: Maria Rio and Caitlin McBride – Further Together 

Well yes, we had to be on this list too! If you don’t know us already - you should. At Further Together, we bring over 20 years of fundraising experience help nonprofits keep their fundraising strong with Fractional Fundraising and Interim Leadership. Whether you need an experienced pro to step in during a leadership transition or hands-on fundraising support without the cost of a full-time hire, we’ve got you covered. Our team integrates seamlessly, managing donor relationships, diversifying revenue, and keeping fundraising momentum going; so your mission never skips a beat. 

4. Systems and automation

Consultant: Rachel Bearbower – Small Shop Strategies

If you’re tired of manual, repetitive tasks and ready to create a smooth-running operation with less stress and more impact, Rachael can make it happen. Rachel and her team of systems experts are here to help you simplify the daily grind and focus on what matters most. They can support you to develop streamlined systems to automate your donor stewardship, increase your revenue with time-saving automations, and reclaim your time to banish burnout for good. 

5. Email marketing

Consultant: Kristy Scott

Emails are powerful revenue generation tools—but you need to make sure you’re doing it right. That’s where Kristy comes in. Small nonprofits turn to Kristy for eye-catching campaigns and content that drive donations and engagement. Kristy’s expertise will help your organization stand out from the crowd and harness email as an impactful fundraising tool. 

6. Diversity, equity, and inclusion

Consultant: Johnathan Meagher-Zayas – Equity Warrior Strategies 

Does your organization need an equity warrior in your corner? Johnathan Meagher-Zayas is a transformative leader who fights for change, tackles oppression, and advances social justice in the social impact sector. Reach out for coaching, group facilitation, and consulting that helps teams build sustainable practices that centre equity, justice, and community care.

7. Podcast consulting

Consultant: Rosa Sarmento – Idea Blossoms 

Does your organization have something important to say? Say it on a podcast! Rosa works with women leaders who are ready for more conversations, more collaborations, and more impact. With her help, your podcast can become a powerful tool for sharing your mission and connecting with your community. 

8. Corporate partnerships

Consultant: Heather Nelson – BridgeRaise

Heather Nelson is legendary when it comes building strong, authentic corporate partnerships for nonprofits. With her team at BridgeRaise, she provides nonprofits with the strategy, support, and training they need to launch or expand their corporate fundraising programs. BridgeRaise is the partner you need if you want to build long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships with corporations to support your organization’s goals. 

9. Navigating and securing government contracts

Consultant: Jesse Clarke 

Your board might think government funding is an “easy win” for your nonprofit, but you know better than that. Government contracts require significant time, effort, and knowledge to secure funding and sustain it while meeting their complex reporting requirements. With Jesse’s expertise, your organization can position itself for success and avoid common pitfalls around these sought-after revenue streams.

10. Financial management

Consultant: Carleen Dehaney — FXO Consulting

If your nonprofit is ready to ditch the financial guesswork and build a rock-solid money strategy, Carleen Dehaney of FXO Consulting is the expert you need. With 20+ years of experience, she helps service-based businesses and nonprofits take control of their finances with confidence. Whether you need one-on-one consulting, group coaching, or a self-paced program, Carleen makes financial literacy approachable, actionable, and—dare we say—actually enjoyable. Work with FXO Consulting to stop stressing about numbers and start making them work for you.

11. Stephen Newlen

Consultant: Stephen Newlen 

The right partner can transform your nonprofit’s operations and impact, taking your mission further than ever before. These experts bring fresh perspectives, innovative strategies, and the hands-on support you need to overcome challenges and achieve your goals. Don’t wait to invest in your nonprofit’s future—reach out to one of these professionals today and start building a stronger, more sustainable organization.