Today we’d like to introduce you to Sheleia Phillips.
Hi Sheleia, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
I started my journey from self-taught intern to 7-figure grant writer during my grad school internship many years ago. As a biologist by trade, I used my technical writing and research background and honed those skills to craft compelling stories and proposals for nonprofits. It wasn’t until almost eight years later that I decided to take the leap and shift my grant writing business from a side hustle to a full-time business. To be fully transparent, I didn’t have the foresight or confidence that things work out because starting a business at the beginning of the pandemic was wild to me. The plan was to return to work after a few months since my goal at the time was to find respite from a toxic 9-5 work culture. Things began to shift over time, and my business has progressed to the point where I couldn’t have the mindset of or operate as a side hustle anymore. In hindsight, I’m grateful that I was willing to walk by faith. I partnered with other grant writers and firms here in St. Louis, which helped me establish my footprint. I’ve also been able to grow a community and gain clients through the power of social media, where I use my “straight talk-no-chaser” approach to nonprofit fundraising to educate other grant writers and nonprofit professionals. To date, my firm has secured over $4.5 million in grant awards for nonprofits across the country. I thank God for this growth, allowing me to utilize my voice on national platforms like Forbes, Network for Good, and more.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My biggest struggle has been establishing myself as a Black woman consultant in my industry. We all know that representation matters, and taking up space in a field where so many people don’t look like you can be challenging. I’m intentionally renewing my mind and working to eliminate imposter syndrome. I’m also grateful for my circle of influential people that help me navigate business and truly add real-life value to my personal and professional growth.
We’ve been impressed with SMP Nonprofit Consulting, but for folks who might need to be more familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
SMP Nonprofit Consulting is a full-service, virtual-based firm that provides grant writing, capacity building, and fund development support to nonprofits. We have dedicated over five years of service to the social sector and have secured more than $4.5 million for organizations across the United States. We deeply value partnering with nonprofits, particularly those led by and that serve BIPOC communities. Our approach begins with helping clients assess their current stage of development, understand their unique position in the philanthropic ecosystem, and provide customized support based on their unique needs. As advocates and resource mobilizers for nonprofit organizations, we see jobs created, families supported, children receiving a quality education, and communities changing for the better.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite memories growing up would be watching my mom own and manage multiple businesses without missing a beat for her loved ones. Her example has a lot much impact on how I do business and relates to people. As a prominent figure in the wellness and beauty industry, I have watched her grow professionally and still show up for her family and friends. Her ability to navigate new rooms, be a resource of wisdom, and pay it forward continues to amaze me. I love that she still uses her skillset and emotional intelligence to transform lives.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.smpnpc.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/thegrantwritingcoach/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/349854416507002/
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/@thegrantwritingcoach
Image Credits
Mena Darre Photography www.brandwithmena.com
