Hi, I’m Carolyne.
At First Light Grants, I help nonprofits unlock their funding potential with smart, data-driven grant programs - because, let’s face it, guessing isn’t a strategy.
With experience building grant teams from the ground up and securing vital funding, I’m here to guide you through every step so you can focus on doing more good.
Whether you're targeting private, corporate, or federal grants, I’ll bring the strategy, structure, and maybe even a little fun to the process.
Let’s turn your mission into action - and get the results that truly make a difference.
My Approach
Value Based
At the core of my practice lies an unwavering commitment to values-based collaboration. I build trust through integrity, transparency, and genuine passion for each organization's mission. This foundation enables me to craft authentic narratives that resonate deeply with funders while honoring your organization's unique identity. By rooting our work in shared values, I help nonprofits not only secure funding but also forge lasting relationships with grantmakers who become true partners in your mission.
Strategy Focused
I transform grant writing from a tactical exercise into a strategic advantage. By immersing myself in your organization's ecosystem, I develop proposals that align perfectly with both immediate funding needs and long-term organizational goals. This strategic lens helps identify opportunities that others might miss and positions your requests within broader sector trends and funder priorities. Each application becomes a building block in your organization's growth trajectory, opening doors to sustainable funding relationships.
Impact Driven
My commitment to real-world impact shapes every proposal I craft. Working across veterans' services, workforce development, mental health, and other vital sectors, I ensure each application clearly demonstrates both immediate outcomes and lasting community change. Through compelling narratives backed by solid data, I help organizations articulate their unique value proposition and social return on investment. The result? Proposals that don't just request funding—they paint a vivid picture of transformation that funders are eager to support.
Certified Giant Writer
And member of the Global Grant Writers Collective - a Collective of 500+ grant writers with a combined $675M+ in secured funding.
10 Years of Nonprofit Experience
Including 2 years as the in-house grant manager for a veteran service organization.