Role: Strategic Growth Consultant
Client: Critical Action Lab (chaired by the Natural History Museum of Utah and Thought Den)
Project Type: Nonprofit Strategy & Program Development
The Brief
The Critical Action Lab—a consortium of science and conservation organizations across the United States—sought strategic guidance for scaling their youth fellowship program focused on climate and critical thinking. The challenge was to identify sustainable growth opportunities while working within the constraints of nonprofit operations: including budget, capacity, and competing organizational priorities.
Current partner organizations in the lab include: The Wild Center (NY), The Museum of Science and Discovery (FL), Phipps Conservatory (PA), The Natural History Museum of Utah (UT), and Mass Audubon (MA).
My Approach
I developed a comprehensive strategic framework using design thinking methodologies to balance the program’s goals with operational realities. This involved extensive research, stakeholder interviews, and impact analysis to create actionable recommendations for the program’s next phase.
Research & Analysis
I deployed multiple research methods during this process, including conducting qualitative evaluation interviews with current fellowship partners to understand the program’s effectiveness and participants’ needs. Additionally, I spoke with additional key figures at related organizations (CIVICS Innovation Hub, The British Library, and Teach the Future) to establish a baseline for common issues and best practices in the field. This dual approach provided both internal program insights and external market positioning.
Strategic Recommendations
Using my analysis of the organization’s strengths and operational capacity, I developed a prioritized growth strategy addressing:
- Partnership Development: Identified high-value, lower-effort partnership opportunities aligned with organizational capacity
- Impact Optimization: Mapped different growth pathways (increased fellowship numbers, enhanced opportunities, targeted funding) against potential impact and resource requirements
- Timely Interventions: Recommended strategic actions tied to emerging themes and opportunities in climate action, critical thinking, youth activism and technology sectors
- Trend Forecasting: Provided forward-looking analysis to position the program for to equip fellows with 21st century leadership skills
Deliverables & Impact
At the conclusion of the program year, I created a comprehensive strategic report used to inform future iterations of the fellowship. The recommendations provide a roadmap for sustainable growth while maintaining program quality and organizational health.
Want to learn more about how I can help your organization grow?
I’ve developed partnership strategies for big businesses and non-profits around the world. I prioritize sustainable, values-aligned partnerships that put organizations in their best light. Let’s talk!