Escaping Dependency on Federal Funds

Federal dollars once formed the largest share of many nonprofit budgets, but that foundation is shifting. Convergent Nonprofit Solutions has seen a surge of inquiries from nonprofit groups across the country asking the same urgent question: how do we replace federal funding and grants that no longer exist?

October 7, 2025 at 1:00 PM ET

Join Brian Abernathy, General Manager of Convergent Nonprofit Solutions, as he discusses how organizations can ultimately succeed by building deep connections with donors, foundations, and corporate partners.

Register Today!

Brian Abernathy

General Manager

Brian has developed a broad range of nonprofit experience through his career. He has led launches of local chapters for international organizations, directed the operational aspects of brand-new nonprofits, and developed cross-sector partnerships to identify innovative solutions for community development. Click here to view Brian's complete biography.

Andrew Keenan

“The fact that Convergent could make the ask was huge. Working with our director and joining solicitations made me a better fundraiser – that was the right formula for us. Moving forward I feel much more confident in making asks and telling our story, and that is going to make us more sustainable in the long run.”

Andrew Keenan, Executive Director
Callanwolde Fine Arts Center | Atlanta, GA

Lisa Zaken

“In the span of six short months, our Board went from being nervous about the initial campaign investment to being ecstatic with the attainment of our goal, and our subsequent stretch goal! Convergent can do it like no other. Their system is rigorous and extremely effective. We have nothing but great things to say about this organization!”

Lisa Zaken, President & CEO
Leadership Gwinnett | Duluth, GA

Dion Davis

“The strategy and support offered by Convergent helped our Board expand its vision for the Foundation, which in turn helped to refocus and redefine our organization's impact in our community. The methodology behind their capital campaign process not only helps to raise more money in the immediate, but it also builds best practices for long-term investor relations and lays groundwork for the success of future funding initiatives.”

Dion Davis, Former Executive Director
Jekyll Island Foundation | Jekyll Island, GA

Robin Mauck

“Working with Convergent has been a pleasure all the way around. Their approach is customized to your organization and their expertise is unmatched in the field. The Convergent team immersed themselves in our process, culture, and goals to provide exceptional value during our campaign. They truly walk alongside you every step of the way!”

Robin Mauck, Executive Director
Obria Medical Clinics Gwinnett | Lawrenceville, GA

Aimee Hall

“I loved working with Convergent. I never could have done what Convergent did. If you want to run a successful campaign, you need to bring in that expertise. Thanks to their help, our capital campaign really took us to the next level within our community.”

Aimee Hall, Executive Director
Safe Homes Domestic Violence Center | Augusta, GA

Phillip Aldridge

“I wanted to thank everyone from the Convergent team who assisted in our campaign. Of the varying ways the campaign’s success may be measured, I count it a blessing that we achieved what we did. Not just the funds committed but the contacts made, the level of exposure reached, and ultimately, what the funds and exposure mean in terms of how many more we now serve as a result. My thanks is in recognition and appreciation for Convergent serving as our fundraising counsel and for the patience and professionalism demonstrated throughout the campaign. You were a godsend for Valley Healthcare!”

Phillip Aldridge, Board Chair
Valley Healthcare System | Colombus, GA

Jeff Taylor

“Early in our campaign feasibility study it became apparent that we lacked the Asking Rights necessary to conduct a capital campaign. As a result, Convergent’s knowledgeable consultants prepared an extensive plan of action that is a road map for growing our awareness and philanthropy. A successful capital campaign will be possible in the near future. Their entrepreneurial approach will definitely get you where you want to go.”

Jeff Taylor, CEO
MedCura Health, formerly Oakhurst Medical Center | Stone Mountain, GA

Understanding Your Development Scenario Strengthens Campaign Success

September 23, 2025

Launching a comprehensive campaign without understanding your development scenario is a costly mistake. Boards and executives often focus on the size of the goal or the timeline for raising funds. The real question is whether your organization is structurally prepared to sustain the effort. A development...

Relationship Building and Trust are the Keys to Securing Large Dollar Investment

September 23, 2025

Securing significant investments for community initiatives starts long before a campaign announcement. The long-term work of building and sustaining relationships takes time and effort. Investors, whether corporations, institutions, or high-net-worth individuals, commit resources to organizations they trust. Trust grows from consistency, proven performance, and visible...

Escaping Federal Funding Dependency Requires a New Nonprofit Playbook

September 23, 2025

Federal dollars once formed the largest share of many nonprofit budgets. That foundation is shifting. Convergent Nonprofit Solutions has seen a surge of inquiries from nonprofit groups across the country asking the same urgent question: how do we replace federal funding and grants that no...

Funding Shortfalls and Future Skills Gaps Are Colliding at Rural Community Colleges

September 22, 2025

By Joe April — Examining the tough challenges rural community colleges face with fewer resources and the need for smart investment to close the skills gap.Underfunded. Understaffed. Expected to do more.Rural community colleges are at the center of workforce development in their regions. Still, they're...

Rural Community Colleges Build Stronger Local Economies Through Workforce Development

September 8, 2025

By Dr. John Rainone — Exploring how rural community colleges fuel economic growth with job-focused training, quick-to-launch programs, and strong ties to local industries.Rural community colleges are not peripheral to workforce development; they are the infrastructure. These institutions sit at the center of local economies,...

Escaping Dependency on Federal Funds

October 7, 2025 at 1:00 PM ET

Register Today!

Brian Abernathy

General Manager

Testimonials

Featured News

Understanding Your Development Scenario Strengthens Campaign Success

Relationship Building and Trust are the Keys to Securing Large Dollar Investment

Escaping Federal Funding Dependency Requires a New Nonprofit Playbook

Funding Shortfalls and Future Skills Gaps Are Colliding at Rural Community Colleges

Rural Community Colleges Build Stronger Local Economies Through Workforce Development