Jess van Bussel, JVB Consulting
Jess van Bussel is an award-winning fund development professional with JVB Consulting. For close to a decade, they have partnered with organizations to build sustainable fundraising programs that actually work. JVB Consulting's mission is to help nonprofits and registered charities raise funds and achieve sustainable funding.
Who are you, who do you serve, and what are you focused on right now?
I'm an award-winning fund development professional who has partnered with organizations for close to a decade to build sustainable fundraising programs that actually work. My focus is making fundraising feel achievable, strategic, and human.
I love small and grassroots organizations! I LOVE getting hands-on with fundraising, and I love seeing organizations grow.
What led you into this work?
I had consulting in my mind for a long time while still working in-house, because I spent a lot of time on evenings and weekends giving fundraising advice and hands-on help to friends in the nonprofit sector. When the time was right, it felt natural to make the jump.
What was one of the hardest parts of building your career or business?
I was sure consulting was the right choice, but I felt really alone. Having the Relatable Nonprofit community has made a big difference. The on-demand learning modules have helped a lot on the business side of things. There was so much I didn't know about starting a business.
What advice would you give someone earlier in their journey?
Don't be afraid to charge what you're worth. The nonprofit sector, especially the fund development part of it, teaches us to be happy with scraps. Your expertise is worth more than that.