You're stretched thin. Your team is running on fumes, and your mission is too important to let fundraising fall short. That's where the right consultant comes in. We've sifted through dozens of firms to bring you five standout partners who
Why Your Nonprofit Needs a Fundraising Consultant Now
The nonprofit sector is facing a perfect storm: over 40% of organizations report a lack of finances for mission-critical activities, and 68% plan to cut services in the coming years. At the same time, donor expectations are rising, and competition for funding is fiercer than ever. A skilled fundraising consultant brings fresh perspective, proven strategy, and the capacity to execute when your internal team is maxed out. Whether you need fractional leadership, campaign support, or grant writing expertise, these firms can help you not just survive, but thrive.
How We Ranked These Firms
We evaluated each firm on four key criteria: breadth of services offered, proven track record with measurable results, specialization and niche expertise, and client feedback and reputation. We also considered geographic reach and the ability to serve organizations nationwide.
Here's a quick look at the five firms that made our list, from the powerhouse full-service agencies to the nimble specialists.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Orr Group | Full-service fundraising transformation |
| Grants Plus | Grant funding and proposal writing |
| Aly Sterling Philanthropy | Strategic planning and board development |
| Redgate Philanthropy Partners | Fractional leadership and donor portfolio development |
| Averill Fundraising Solutions | Large-scale campaign management |
The Top 5 Fundraising Consultants for 2026
#1 Orr Group
A screenshot of the Orr Group website.
Orr Group is a heavyweight in the fundraising consulting space, offering a full suite of services including AI and automation, campaign management, leadership development, planned giving, and talent strategy. They've been featured in multiple roundups as a top-tier firm, and their team brings decades of combined experience to the table. If you need a partner that can handle everything from a capital campaign to board development, Orr Group has the depth and resources to deliver. Their approach is data-driven and results-oriented, making them a safe bet for organizations ready to scale.
#2 Grants Plus
A screenshot of the Grants Plus website.
Grants Plus is the go-to firm for nonprofits that want to supercharge their grant funding. They specialize in grant prospect research, federal grant writing, and comprehensive grant program management, and they boast a twelve-fold return on investment for their clients. Their team has a proven method for finding opportunities, building funder relationships, and writing winning proposals. If your organization relies on grants to fuel its mission, Grants Plus can help you secure more funding with less guesswork.
#3 Aly Sterling Philanthropy
A screenshot of the Aly Sterling Philanthropy website.
Aly Sterling Philanthropy is a top-rated firm known for its holistic approach to fundraising. They offer philanthropic advising, strategic planning, board development, and corporate philanthropy services. Their team works closely with nonprofits, foundations, and corporations to create customized strategies that drive long-term growth. They've been recognized as a best overall consultant in multiple industry lists, and their client-centric approach ensures you get a plan that fits your unique culture and goals.
#4 Redgate Philanthropy Partners
A screenshot of the Redgate Philanthropy Partners website.
Redgate Philanthropy Partners brings a focused, hands-on approach to strategic fundraising and philanthropy consulting. They specialize in fractional leadership, strategy design, and donor portfolio development, making them an ideal partner for mission-driven nonprofits that need expert guidance without a full-time hire. Based in Maryland and Ohio, the firm serves organizations nationwide and is led by Mike Greer, who is directly accessible for partnership discussions. If you're looking for a consultant who will roll up their sleeves and work alongside your team, Redgate is a strong choice.
#5 Averill Fundraising Solutions
A screenshot of the Averill Fundraising Solutions website.
Averill Fundraising Solutions brings over 75 years of combined experience and has helped raise more than $3 trillion for charitable organizations. They offer a comprehensive range of services, from campaign management to strategic counsel, and are known for their ability to handle complex, large-scale fundraising initiatives. Their longevity and track record speak volumes about their reliability and expertise. For organizations that want a partner with deep institutional knowledge and a proven history of success, Averill is a solid pick.
How to Choose the Right Fundraising Consultant for Your Nonprofit
Start by identifying your biggest pain point. Is it grant writing? Board engagement? A capital campaign? Then look for a firm that specializes in that area. Consider their size and whether you want a large agency with many resources or a smaller, more nimble partner. Always ask for case studies and client references. Finally, make sure their communication style and values align with your organization's culture. A great consultant feels like an extension of your team, not an outsider.
Automating Your Fundraising Workflow with the Right Partner
Once you've chosen a consultant, work with them to automate repetitive tasks like donor segmentation, email follow-ups, and gift acknowledgment. Many firms, like Orr Group, offer AI and automation services that can free up your team to focus on high-impact activities. Set up a regular cadence of data reviews and strategy sessions to ensure your automation tools are driving real results.
Your Next Step Toward Fundraising Success
The right fundraising consultant can be the catalyst that takes your organization from surviving to thriving. Whether you need the full-service power of Orr Group, the grant expertise of Grants Plus, the strategic vision of Aly Sterling, the hands-on partnership of Redgate Philanthropy Partners, or the legacy experience of Averill, each of these firms has a proven track record. Review your needs, reach out for a conversation, and take the first step toward a stronger, more sustainable fundraising future.