The Rise of Artificial Intelligence in Nonprofit Grant Writing: A Cognitive Justice Perspective
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The Rise of Artificial Intelligence in Nonprofit Grant Writing: A Cognitive Justice Perspective

ByLydia Sierra

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries across the globe, and the nonprofit sector is no exception. One of the most intriguing and controversial developments is the use of AI to assist in writing grant proposals. As organizations increasingly turn to AI tools to streamline and enhance their grant applications, it is essential to consider the implications of this trend, particularly through the lens of cognitive justice …

The Power of Words: Strategic Communications Advice for Nonprofits
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The Power of Words: Strategic Communications Advice for Nonprofits

ByLydia Sierra

Effective communication has become a cornerstone for nonprofit organizations, essential for engaging stakeholders, securing funding, and enhancing public image. Historically underestimated, strategic communication now integrates seamlessly with fundraising efforts, enhancing donor relations and creating unified, impactful messaging. …

High Hopes, Hard Realities: The Struggle for Equity in New York City’s Cannabis Industry
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High Hopes, Hard Realities: The Struggle for Equity in New York City’s Cannabis Industry

ByLydia Sierra

The nascent cannabis market holds significant promise for economic growth and social change, yet it faces profound challenges, particularly in achieving social equity. Despite progressive legislative shifts and increasing acceptance in recent years, the industry grapples with several issues that hinder equitable participation and benefit distribution among historically marginalized communities. …

Vulnerability to Vitality

Vulnerability to Vitality

ByLydia Sierra

The environmental justice movement in the United States emerged in the late 20th century, primarily in response to the disproportionate burden of environmental pollution and degradation faced by marginalized populations, particularly communities of color and low-income communities. Many of these communities began to organize and voice their concerns about the disproportionate siting of hazardous waste…

Five Philanthropy Trends in 2024
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Five Philanthropy Trends in 2024

ByLydia Sierra

Interests in the philanthropic sector are constantly changing in response to the social and political climate. In recent years, significant global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and various climate disasters, have caused a shift in funding priorities. But that doesn’t mean funders are throwing money at problems without a plan. Gone are the days…

What’s Unique about Federal Grant Project Budgets?
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What’s Unique about Federal Grant Project Budgets?

ByLydia Sierra

You may feel confident creating project budgets for foundations and corporations, but have you ever tried your hand at a federal grant project budget? Grant projects funded by the federal government are held to a high standard of transparency and accountability. Project budgeting for federal grants can be complex, with strict regulations, compliance standards, and detailed reporting requirements. In this blog post, we share insights to help you level up on federal grant budgets. …

Federal Grants: 4 Elements of a Winning Work Plan
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Federal Grants: 4 Elements of a Winning Work Plan

ByLydia Sierra

Do you ever find that you or your team are struggling to stay on track with goals? Or getting lost in the complexities of a project? Well, look no further than a well-crafted work plan, something we teach clients how to create for federal grants and nonprofit work in general. In this blog post, we dive into the four essential elements of a winning work plan. …

Federal Grant Proposals: Crafting a Compelling Needs Statement
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Federal Grant Proposals: Crafting a Compelling Needs Statement

ByLydia Sierra

In a previous post, we introduced you to the art of writing government proposals, one of our specialties here at Lydia Sierra Consulting. Over the next few months, we’re going deeper into this topic, sharing proven methods from our grant writing team, who spent the past year developing an online course for organizations seeking federal grant opportunities. To kick this off, we’re starting with the importance of writing a powerful needs statement. …

Five Ways to Navigate the Holidays with Grace
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Five Ways to Navigate the Holidays with Grace

ByLydia Sierra

The holiday season is often touted as a time of joy and celebration, but it can bring about a range of difficult emotions. The pressure to spend money, attend holiday parties, and maintain a cheerful facade can lead to guilt and increased stress levels. On top of that, the emphasis on family can amplify the absence of loved ones or magnify complicated relationships, stirring up feelings of grief. …

How to Craft a Projected Budget for a Prosperous Year
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How to Craft a Projected Budget for a Prosperous Year

ByLydia Sierra

In the four previous blog posts, we’ve highlighted end-of-year tasks that every nonprofit should be doing or at least thinking about to prepare for the upcoming year. Now, as the year comes to a close, we want to emphasize the importance of creating a projected budget — a financial roadmap showing how you will finish the fiscal year or what you anticipate for the year ahead, with a clear overview of expected revenue and expenses. …