service that scales
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for mission-driven work. Every organization, every leader, every team has unique challenges and strengths. At Inspiring Acumen, we meet you where you are – with services tailored to your needs, goals, and realities. Whether you’re building internal structure, launching a campaign, or simply trying to keep up with the demands of your mission, we’re here to help.
Our approach is rooted in care and powered by experience. We bring professional, high-quality strategic, creative, and technical support to teams that may not always have the capacity or resources to access it. Because we’ve been there – and we know what a difference the right support can make.
Strategic Support
Fundraising & Development Strategy:
Planning and implementation of major campaigns, donor journeys, and culture of philanthropy initiatives.
Stakeholder Engagement & Communication:
Clear, values-driven messaging for board members, funders, community partners, and the public.
Organizational Assessments & Planning:
Practical guidance for internal structure, process improvements, and long-term planning.
Board Development & Governance:
Support in building, educating, and activating effective boards aligned with mission and goals.
Scalable Infrastructure Design:
Systems and solutions built to grow with your team and adapt to new opportunities.
Program Evaluation & Impact Storytelling:
Helping you define, track, and share the outcomes that matter most.
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Data Analysis & Reporting:
Use of metrics and tools to track engagement, fundraising performance, and organizational outcomes.
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CRM & Database Guidance:
Experience managing donor and engagement data with attention to privacy, efficiency, and usability.
Creative Support
Web Design & Development:
ADA-compliant, responsive websites built with UI/UX design-thinking best practices, tailored to your organization's specific audience.
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Marketing Automation & Digital Campaigns:
Integration of email, social, and web tools with design and content support for multi-channel outreach.
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Video & Audio Production:
Full-service editing for podcasts, promotional videos, training content, and storytelling assets.
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Brand Development & Style Guides:
Creating or refining visual identity systems that reflect your values and connect with your audience.
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Social Media Design & Scheduling:
Branded graphics, animations, and campaign planning across platforms.
Print & Outreach Materials:
Brochures, mailers, reports, signage, and more—all professionally designed and strategically aligned.
Campaign Concepting & Execution:
From idea to deliverable—ensuring consistency, creativity, and impact across every touchpoint.
Storytelling & Content Creation:
Writing and design that brings your mission to life, tailored for web, email, video, and social media.
Event Design & Support:
Materials and visuals that enhance in-person or virtual gatherings, campaigns, and community events.
User Experience & Empathy-Driven Design:
Grounded in UI/UX principles to ensure accessibility, clarity, and connection.
jenifer vick, co-director
Having worked closely with James ... I have witnessed firsthand his remarkable abilities to develop and execute effective communication strategies that have significantly benefited nonprofit organizations.
James possesses a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by organizations of all types, and his strategic approach to communication has consistently delivered positive results. His ability to identify key stakeholders, craft compelling messages, and implement targeted communication campaigns has been instrumental in raising awareness, mobilizing support, and driving the success of various initiatives.
James' vast strategic communication experience and skills make him an invaluable asset to any organization. I highly recommend him for a role where his strategic communication expertise can be harnessed to drive success.
nick benson, executive director
James is an outstanding marketing and communications professional, with expertise in nonprofit organizations and philanthropy. He has excellent skills across the board.
He understands how to develop and execute strategic messaging and communication campaigns, and is a gifted writer, editor and videographer. James has a good eye for design, both in print and online, and he has developed strong web development and management skills. Every deliverable that James produces is to the highest quality, and he works efficiently, collaboratively and with precision.
In just a few short months, James has made a significant, positive, lasting impact on our office. He will be a valuable member of any team and I cannot recommend him highly enough.
Sarah Morey, assistant professor
James has a drive for success and passion for developing strong working relationships. He was a leader, mentor, and friend to his peers... One quality I admire about James is that when someone comes to him with a new idea he works with that person to make their vision a reality.
James has a positive attitude, offers new ideas, and is always looking for ways to improve, both personally and professionally. However, his desire for improvement goes beyond what is just good for him. He always looked at the bigger picture.