012: Insider Grant Strategies Revealed, Francesca Axam Frederick on How Grantyd Helps Grassroots Nonprofits Unlock Funding
Black Philanthropy: Our StoriesPlay episode
Show notes
How can small nonprofits build sustainable revenue, access philanthropic data, and stay rooted in community? In this episode of Black Philanthropy: Our Stories, host Michelle Renee Jackson, MDiv, sits down with Francesca Axam Frederick, a fundraiser, strategist, and tech entrepreneur whose journey from dance to data is reshaping how grassroots organizations engage with philanthropy.
Francesca shares how her early experiences in the arts led her to fundraising, why she transitioned into human services, and how she and her husband launched Grantyd, a tech platform designed to support small nonprofits with grant research, data visualization, and equity-centered tools. She opens up about the emotional toll of fundraising as a Black woman, the importance of relationship-building, and why she believes access to information is a form of justice.
This episode is a masterclass in equity-driven innovation and a call to action for fundraisers, nonprofit leaders, and anyone committed to transforming philanthropy from the ground up.
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In this episode, you will hear:
Francesca's journey from contemporary dancer to fundraiser Why she left performance for community-centered work The founding story of Grantyd and its mission to support grassroots nonprofits How data access and visualization can empower small organizations The emotional realities of fundraising in predominantly white donor spaces Why sustainable revenue models matter more than quick wins How hope and legacy fuel her work Skills and Tips You'll Learn:
How to build relationships with funders beyond the ask Why "no" in fundraising often means "not right now" How to use data to drive strategy and storytelling Tips for small nonprofits to diversify revenue and avoid burnout How to navigate power dynamics and stay mission-aligned Why tech and equity must go hand in hand About Francesca Axam Frederick:
Francesca Axam Frederick is the CEO and co-founder of Grantyd, a subscription-based platform that helps small nonprofits access philanthropic data and streamline grant writing. With a background in arts and human services fundraising, Francesca has worked with organizations like Covenant House Georgia, Atlanta Ballet, and Clark Atlanta University.
Her work centers equity, access, and sustainability for grassroots organizations. Francesca is passionate about helping nonprofits visualize their data, build relationships with funders, and create long-term impact in their communities.
Connect on:
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/francesca-axam-frederick/
Instagram: @frankie_francesca
Website: www.Grantyd.com
About the Host – Michelle Renee Jackson, MDiv:
Michelle Renee Jackson is an award-winning storyteller and leader in philanthropy. She is the Founder and Principal Artist of Simuel + Murray, a production company named after her grandmothers' maiden names, with bases in New York and Los Angeles. Michelle's work has helped organizations secure their largest gifts through compelling visual storytelling. A sought-after speaker, she has delivered keynotes at Harvard, Yale, Hulu, and Georgetown.
Connect on:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/michellereneejackson/
Instagram: @michelle.renee.jackson
Website: www.michellereneejackson.com
Podcast Pages:
Website: https://www.simuel-murray.com/podcast-black-philanthropy
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/black-philanthropy-our-stories-the-podcast
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Produced by Simuel + Murray
Disclaimer
The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the host and guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organizations they are affiliated with or employed by. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Please consult your own legal or financial professional for guidance specific to your situation.
