Nonprofit Consulting &
Grant Writing Services

Jessica M. Waddell, MPS, MPH

  • Nonprofit Consulting, LLC

    Grant Writing
    Grant Readiness & Coaching
    Strategic Planning
    Program Evaluation
    Communications

  • Jessica Waddell, MPS, MPH

    Principal/Founder
    Nonprofit Consulting, LLC
    jessica@nonprofitconsulting.me
    865-809-8453

  • Public Health & Nonprofit Experience

    Community Health Assessment
    Program Design & Planning
    Program Implementation
    Evaluation Design
    Statistical Data Analysis

My Approach

Hiring a nonprofit consultant - especially a grant writer - can be scary. Most nonprofits want to know how much a grant writer can, and will, bring in for their organization in funding. But, the truth is, you should be skeptical of anyone who promises a guaranteed return on your investment.

Success in grant writing depends on a number of key components that I will bring to your project:

  • Establishing a realistic grant funding strategy that considers multiple types of funders and grants, depending on your goals

  • Strategic prospect research to identify the funders most likely to fund your organization

  • Analyzing funders’ giving history to determine an appropriate amount for your ask

  • The ability to then communicate with funders and clearly describe the alignment between the funder’s interests and your own

  • Mastering the balance between data and storytelling in your proposal so that it is both concise and compelling

  • When appropriate, building relationships with funders

  • Managing the writing and editing process so that you have time to strategically approach each opportunity and do so in a timely manner

  • And so much more - not least of all, the nonprofit’s own history, experience, approach to the work, partnerships, and qualifications.

Here’s what I bring to the table:
Real-World Experience You Can Trust

Proven Leadership & Results:
I led teams in nonprofit professional associations to consistently surpass annual sales goals. There wasn’t a big bonus, but the organization double-matched our 403(b) contributions—because I prioritize sustainable growth and strategic planning.

Expertise & Tenacity:
With master’s degrees in Strategic Leadership and Public Health, I bring over 15 years of nonprofit experience and 10 years in public health. I know what it means to work hard to be heard—and I bring that same drive to advocate for my clients.

Strategic Planning at Scale:
I co-authored Tennessee's 5-Year Plan for Addressing Cancer in 2019 as part of the CDC-funded Tennessee Cancer Coalition. I shaped key sections on racial health disparities—proof of my commitment to equity and impact.

Integrity & Accountability:
I’ve made tough calls as a nonprofit board member, stepping away when policies weren’t followed. Integrity drives my work, and I bring that same accountability to every client relationship.

Heart-Led Community Impact:
Partnering with grantees to cover electric bills, fund holiday memories, and offer support when it was needed most remains one of the highlights of my career. I believe in generosity grounded in sustainability.— Quote Source

Testimonials

  • ”Jessica brings immense value to any project she takes on. Working methodically and carefully, she provides clients w/a solid, realistic base of knowledge about how to optimize support for their work. Every project we have shared has been productive, and I continue to recommend her services to virtually everyone I work with. That she is hilariously funny & kind are big bonuses!”

    M.F. 2024

  • “I wholeheartedly recommend Jessica for any role that demands exceptional creativity, organizational prowess, and proactive leadership. During our time working together, she consistently demonstrated an outstanding ability to craft innovative solutions and manage complex programs with remarkable efficiency. As a program director and grant writer, Jessica developed compelling proposals but also helped streamline processes and anticipate needs. Her proactive approach and meticulous attention to detail made a significant impact on our projects, and she would undoubtedly bring the same level of excellence to any future endeavor.”

    R.S. 2024

  • "Jessica was very knowledgeable, and her in-depth knowledge of industry best practices in the nonprofit space is evident. She offered valuable insight and advice, and completed the project with efficiency and an attitude of excellence. I will definitely use her on future projects that arise and would highly recommend her.”

    J.Z. 2021

Contact Us.

jessica@nonprofitconsulting.me
(865) 809-8453

Knoxville, TN
USA