Few people talk openly about the methods behind modern major grants.

Together, we can change that.

Learn the unwritten rules of major grants.

The organizations that consistently secure major grants approach philanthropy differently. They understand how funders identify partners, how credibility solidifies, and how the largest investments take shape long before a proposal is submitted.

The three-month program includes:

• Live cohort modules with a select group capped at 12 organizations, ensuring meaningful discussion and individual attention

• Private sessions with Susan to apply the method to your organization's priorities, opportunities, and obstacles

• A major grants toolkit with templates, talking points, and funder meeting frameworks your team can use for years

• A team-based learning experience with up to three participants per organization, creating a unified approach

  Best for: Agencies that have secured five- and six-figure private institutional grants and are ready to compete for larger investments.

“Susan was excellent. One of the best presenters I've ever heard. She was organized, gave great examples! Would love to hear more from her on grant related topics in the future.”

— Candid workshop attendee

Bring major grants strategy to your organization, conference, or network.

Many organizations lack a shared understanding of what changes as the size of philanthropic investments increase.

Intensives introduce the principles behind major grants and translate them into practical next steps for your audience’s challenges, experience level, and goals.

Formats include:

• Leadership and team sessions introduce major grants strategy to development, executive, program, and/or communications teams

• Private cohorts bring the Major Grants Roadmap experience to large organizations, chapters, or affiliates

• Advanced sessions for Roadmap alumni or experienced practitioners offer deeper expertise in specific stages of major grants development

• Conference sessions and keynotes offer timely, practical major grants methods to a broader audience

  Best for: Organizations and event hosts seeking to align their people in pursuit of the sector’s largest awards.

Years after our work with Susan, we've continued to implement strategies she recommended. Susan's approach wasn't just a temporary fix—it became our practice. Her expertise provided us with sustainable systems and processes that keep delivering results long after our initial engagement.  

— Deborah Hoesly, Chief Mission Advancement Officer, Lutheran Services in America

Secure strategic counsel designed to advance your upcoming goals.

The challenge is rarely effort. It’s knowing where and how to focus in a rapidly changing field.

Major Grants Advisory provides an outside perspective on what’s working, what’s limiting progress, and the steps that will position your organization for larger investments.

They include:

• A candid analysis of your current major grants strategy and readiness

• A prioritized action plan identifying your highest-value opportunities and next moves

• A diagnosis of your funder-facing materials and organizational positioning

• Strategic preparation for funder conversations, meetings, and decisions

I take on a small number of advisory clients each year so that each gets my full attention.

Best for: Organizations seeking an expert perspective on their major grants strategy, priorities, and next steps.