This session addresses the GPC Competency of practices and services that raise the level of professionalism of grant developers. The session goal is to help grant professionals learn the ups and downs of consulting so they can make the best decision for both themselves and their families.

The objectives are to help grant professionals understand:

1. The logistics of creating their LLC.

2. How to make the transition from working for an organization to working on their own (gradual or full break?)

3. How to handle the financial aspects of their business, including taxes/W9 forms, invoicing, time tracking, and budgeting.

4. Best practices for marketing their consulting business.

5. How to stay organized with multiple grant deadlines and clients.

6. The joyful parts of consulting… and the not-so-joyful aspects.

7. How to not take on too much!

This session will include my own story of going from the supposedly “safe and secure” world of local government to being told my position was being eliminated. It will include some personal stories to help attendees understand what to do and what NOT to do in consulting!
 
Presenter:

Amy Shankland, GPC, has been a grant professional for over 17 years. She has worked for a variety of non-profit organizations and local governments. In 2016 she created her own consulting company, Grants Avenue LLC. Shankland is also the author of the book Joy to You and Me (At Work!) and Lighten Your Mental Load. She has held nearly every board position within the Indiana GPA chapter. Shankland is a former Dale Carnegie Instructor and writes a column called Sandwiched for the Hamilton County Reporter.

Skill Level:

Early-Career
Mid-Career
Master Level

Learning Path: 
Consulting

GPC Competencies:
Practices and services that raise the level of professionalism of grant developers