Create passionate advocates for your cause

We can help you build relationships with donors, rather than just having financial transactions with them.

Build your capacity, not just your mailing list.

Learn to identify and cultivate the donors who can pour their hearts into your mission.

Create repeatable success.

You’ll learn how to succeed in fundraising year after year, using a disciplined approach to donor cultivation.

Our mission is to change the face of philanthropy, moving nonprofits of all sizes to greater capacity and meaningful impact within the communities they serve.
Developing a successful, sustainable nonprofit is not a matter of luck. The Kennari Consulting method is a deliberate program that has been proven with our clients for over fourteen years. You will be successful working with us because we will teach and walk alongside you, because we have been in your shoes. “Kennari” is Icelandic for “teacher” and, with that mindset, we teach your staff, board members and volunteers to be ambassadors for your mission. Through our consulting services, we coach and advise your team as well as help you grow your internal capacity through direct services. 

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Testimonials

Working with Kennari was one of the best moves that we made in our fundraising strategy. From their clear processes, relational engagement, and incredible expertise, it has been a joy to work with them. I would say that they are not just consultants, but we have become mutual partners –learning and strategizing together on how to create more community impact, while raising the funds to make it happen.

—Justin Beene, Founder/Director, Grand Rapids Center for Community Transformation

Kennari Consulting is the key to sanity! In our first venture into event planning and getting started as a Foundation, they were critical to our ongoing success. Their staff is responsive, accessible and professional.

—Rena Schwartz, Michigan Sports Academies Foundation

As the leader of the fund development department, having Kennari’s guidance and support throughout our budgeting and planning process has been extremely valuable. Having what feels like an extension of my own team, especially in 2020 and 2021 as funding sources were uncertain, was a tremendous asset.

—Gina Schulz, VP of Corporate and Foundation Giving, Grand Rapids Public Museum

Kennari started as a consultant and quickly became a highly valued partner. Their commitment to our success is apparent in every interaction. Kennari is always well informed on fundraising trends and helps us put that knowledge into the action that best serves our mission to enhance the lives of seniors.

—Robert Barnes, President, Senior Neighbors

Kennari has changed our thinking, changed our systems and changed our culture. We continue to move forward with a stronger foundation of philanthropy because of Kennari. The team at Kennari walks with you during the implementation stages. You don’t feel alone!

—Lynne Scheible, Retired Executive Director, Artworks

Kennari Consulting has been an invaluable resource in growing our funding capacity. Despite the often-overwhelming challenges the 2020-21 pandemic has presented, Kennari’s quick planning response made it possible for the Theatre to continue our campaign while we also sourced emergency funding.

—Bruce Tinker, Executive Director, Grand Rapids Civic Theatre

Kennari Consulting has been an invaluable partner in helping us navigate through leadership and staff changes, and has provided a strong framework to lead us toward sustainability. The staff provides a wide array of experience, skills, and expertise, but it is their passion and dedication that makes them so much fun to work with.

—Lori Tennenhouse, Executive Director, Girls Choral Academy

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