Work
Below is a selection of recent work
Major Public HospitalCapital Campaign & Major Gifts Transformation
An Australian public hospital was preparing to undertake an eight figure capital campaign, without an established major gifts function and with a fragmented approach to philanthropy. Major gift income was limited, donor attrition had reduced momentum, and there was little internal experience in campaign strategy or delivery.
The engagement focused on building the foundations required to support a transformational campaign. This included drawing insights from the feasibility study, developing the campaign blueprint and gift tables, identifying and introducing high-value donor prospects, and working with board members and senior stakeholders to build confidence in major gift fundraising.
This resulted in a strengthened philanthropic function and the securing of lead gifts for the campaign. The work established the structure, strategy and capability required to pursue the organisation’s broader fundraising ambition with confidence.
“I’ve witnessed Courtney lead a significant transformation of the hospital’s philanthropic function, building new systems, deepening engagement with stakeholders, and introducing a culture of professionalism that has changed how fundraising is seen and valued across the organisation.”
Market Entry and Philanthropic Strategy
International Peacebuilding OrganisationAn international peacebuilding organisation was experiencing increasing pressure on program continuity due to shifts in global humanitarian funding and a reliance on constrained institutional sources. Leadership was exploring philanthropic funding to diversify income and stabilise operations, but lacked a clear view of market opportunity and strategic fit.
The engagement focused on assessing the viability of philanthropic expansion. This included market sizing across relevant funding segments, identifying and prioritising prospective funders, and developing tailored engagement strategies. Financial modelling was also undertaken to forecast income potential, time to return on investment, and the resourcing required to establish a sustainable function.
This resulted in a clear and credible case for philanthropic investment, enabling the organisation to secure internal approval and funding to establish a dedicated development function and strengthen its long-term funding resilience.
“Please know that we wouldn’t be in this position without the support you have provided over the last six months. Securing a dedicated fundraising staff member is a milestone I have been working toward for six years!”
Project Development & Grants
Regional Arts OrganisationA Northern Territory-based arts organisation was seeking to expand its annual festival through a structured residency program, bringing established Indigenous artists together with emerging local talent. While the vision was strong, the program required clearer definition and funding to proceed.
The engagement focused on shaping the program into a fundable proposition. This included refining the project design, developing a detailed budget, and aligning the program with relevant grant opportunities. Multiple applications were prepared and submitted, each tailored to funder priorities and program outcomes.
This resulted in the successful award of grant funding, enabling delivery of the residency and festival program while reducing financial pressure and strengthening the organisation’s capacity to support community-led cultural outcomes.
“Grant success! This will relieve some pressure, thanks Courtney!”
Market Development & Program Design
Equestrian SectorThe Australian equestrian market has traditionally focused on show jumping and dressage, with limited structure for hunter, jumper and equitation disciplines as seen in North America. This has created a gap for riders seeking a more style-based, performance-oriented format.
The work focuses on introducing and establishing a new discipline within the Australian market. This includes designing competition formats, developing judging and accreditation pathways, and shaping the positioning of the discipline to support adoption by riders, clubs and governing bodies.
This is establishing the foundations for a new category within the Australian equestrian sector, with early engagement across riders, officials and industry stakeholders and a defined pathway toward formalised competition and growth.