From Grants to Greatness: Renee Bourque's Journey in Philanthropy

Renee Bourque , a powerhouse in the grant strategy world, joins us to share her incredible journey from securing major research grants at the University of Washington to transforming lives in post-war Guatemala. Her experiences, living through civil conflict alongside her nearly blind mother, have given her a profound understanding of how funding impacts real communities. With over $600 million secured globally and a bestselling book, "Getting Funded," now in its seventh edition, Renee brings a unique blend of expertise and compassion to the nonprofit sector. We dive into her innovative approach to philanthropy, emphasizing the importance of community empowerment and sustainable solutions. Whether you’re a seasoned grant writer or just curious about the world of philanthropy, there’s a treasure trove of insights waiting for you in this conversation! Renee Bourque, a powerhouse in the world of grant strategy, takes us on a journey that’s far from your typical boardroom chatter. Her story starts in the academic trenches of the University of Washington, where she honed her skills in securing hefty research grants. But the real magic began when she decided to join her mother in post-war Guatemala, where they rolled up their sleeves and got to work rebuilding communities. Imagine spending 15 years side by side with your nearly blind, elderly mother—talk about a duo! With every challenge they faced in a land torn by civil strife, Renee discovered the sheer power of funding. It wasn't just about dollars and cents; it was about changing lives and rebuilding hope. Fast forward to today, and she’s helped pull in over 600 million bucks for various projects globally, all while writing a bestselling book on grant writing. This isn’t just a chat about numbers; it's about the heart behind philanthropy, the deep connections, and the stories that transform lives. Buckle up as we dive into how Renee combines expertise with a profound sense of humanity and why her journey is an inspiration for anyone looking to make a difference. Takeaways: Renee Bourque's journey from academia to grassroots work in Guatemala highlights the transformative power of community engagement and local leadership. Securing funding is not just about the money; it's about nurturing relationships and understanding the real needs of communities. The concept of the 'rest step' teaches us about pacing ourselves in hard tasks, which can be applied to grant writing and community development alike. Renee emphasizes the importance of nurturing emergent leaders in communities rather than imposing solutions from the outside; it's all about local empowerment. Her book, 'Getting Funded', now in its seventh edition, includes essential updates about using AI in grant writing effectively and ethically. A successful funding strategy involves engaging the community to contribute their resources, fostering ownership and sustainability in projects.