AFPNB Lunch and Learn Series

AFPNB Lunch & Learn Series: Working with Fundraising Consultants

Is it time to bring in a fundraising consultant—but you’re not sure if you’re there yet?

It’s a question many nonprofit leaders wrestle with. Hiring a consultant can be a powerful move—but only if the timing, fit, and expectations are right.

This session is designed to help you figure that out.

We’ll unpack the real-world when, why, and how of working with fundraising consultants—so you can move forward with clarity instead of guesswork. Whether you’re facing capacity gaps, planning for growth, or looking to elevate your fundraising strategy, you’ll gain practical insight to guide your next step.

Join us for an honest, experience-driven conversation that will leave you better equipped to decide if, when, and how a consultant can support your organization’s success.

Speakers: Elizabeth Murphy, Co-Founder and Co-CEO, Bloom Funding; Gerry Backs, President, Hearten Philanthropic Management

Learn more and register today!

ABOUT THE SPEAKERS

Gerry Backs has over 30 years experience in the non-profit sector. He has worked for organizations in the health, social, arts and international development sectors from local store fronts to international charities. He specializes in developing management excellence, board engagement, capital campaigns, major gifts, and legacy giving programs. Directly involved in over $235 million in dollars raised. Gerry has held his
Masters Degree in Philanthropy and Development since 2002.

Elizabeth Murphy, CFRE, pairs rigorous strategy with values-driven leadership. An openly bisexual entrepreneur with deep roots in the nonprofit sector, she serves as Vice-Chair of the Association of Fundraising Professionals NB Chapter, where she advances IDEAA discourse and programming to make fundraising a more inclusive profession.

As Co-founder of Bloom Funding, Elizabeth leads a team of scientists, researchers, and community advocates who help businesses and nonprofits access funding and measure what matters. Since 2018, Bloom has secured $30 million for its clients, including more than $4 million for nonprofit organizations since 2022. The firm is B Corp certified, a certified diverse supplier through CQCC, and a recipient of Excellence in Business Canada (2025).

In 2026, Elizabeth was named one of Atlantic Canada’s Top 25 Most Powerful Women in
Business by Atlantic Business Magazine.