MCF Grant and Working with a Consultant: Preparing your organization for success 

This session has been canceled. Please contact Shannon Forney if you would like more information about this grant program or to schedule a consultation.

MCF Grant and Working with a Consultant
Tuesday, June 3, 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
ArtReach St Croix, 224 4th St. N., Stillwater, MN 55082
Presented by: Shannon Forney and Kathy Blegen-Huntley

Could hiring an expert help your organization get to the next level, overcome a barrier, plan an expansion, or help solve a problem? MRAC's Management-Consulting Fund grant will pay for consultant fees relating to a small arts-management project that has the potential for significant impact in advancing the mission of your arts group. After a brief overview of MRAC funding, this session will explain the Management Consulting Fund program, the application process, and give you ideas for how your organization might benefit. While MRAC does not recommend or endorse specific consultants, you will learn tips for finding and selecting a consultant and best practices to ensure that your arts-management project is a success. 

"A great introduction to working with a consultant and the grant, particularly for those of us who are relatively new to the field."--Past Participant
 
Shannon Forney is the MRAC Program Director for the Organizational Development, Capital, Management Consulting Fund, Management Training Fund, and Emergency Accessibility grant programs. She holds a Masters of Administration in Nonprofit Management from Hamline University's School of Business in St. Paul, Minnesota and a BA in Theater from Oberlin College in Oberlin, Ohio.

Kathy Blegen-Huntley, Owner & President of Upward Spiral Consulting works in the areas of non-profit advancement, arts collaborations and facilitation.  Kathy is a skilled leader and experienced consultant to a wide variety of non-profits including nine years working as Development Director and Executive Director of human service and arts organizations. Kathy's experience includes fundraising, capital campaign planning and implementation, marketing/branding, strategic planning, board development and operational effectiveness.