In this inspiring conversation, Holly Rustick sits down with Dr. Ginny Blankenship, founder of Lightmaker Grants and Strategy, to explore her unexpected path into grant writing and how she built a thriving business from the ground up. Ginny opens up about the challenges and opportunities in today’s grant landscape, the power of community and mentorship, and the lessons she’s learned about growing strategically while staying true to her mission.

Whether you’re just starting your grant writing journey or looking to scale your consulting business, this episode is packed with actionable advice, real-world strategies, and uplifting reminders that you don’t have to do it all alone.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The importance of setting boundaries and hiring help for growth.

Why so many successful grant writers “fall into” the field — and how to embrace it.

How claiming a clear niche can help you attract your ideal clients.

Key differences between federal and private foundation grant strategies.

The critical role of relationship-building in finding opportunities.

Why time tracking is essential for running a sustainable business.

How community and mentorship can break the isolation of remote work.

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About Dr. Ginny Blankenship, CRFE

Ginny Blankenship is the Founder and Lead Strategist of Lightmaker Grants & Strategy, one of
the only agencies in the country dedicated to grant writing and fundraising for education,
youth, and workforce development programs.

She brings over 20 years of experience across the nonprofit, education, and public policy
sectors. A recovering policy wonk turned grant whisperer, Ginny began her career as a
communications director in the U.S. House of Representatives during 9/11 — a baptism by fire
that sparked her passion for public service, education equity, and systems change.

She went on to earn a doctorate in education policy from The George Washington University
and has since led successful advocacy campaigns and secured more than $9 million in grant
funding for mission-driven organizations across the country. As a Certified Fund Raising
Executive (CFRE), she holds one of the highest credentials in the nonprofit sector.

Ginny lives in Little Rock, Arkansas, with her husband, son, two rescue cats (Cleo and Minnie
Pearl), and one wild Weimaraner named Juice.

Connect with Dr. Ginny Blankenship

• Lightmaker Grants & Strategy’s website: www.lightmakergrants.com
• Lightmaker’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightmakergrants
• Ginny’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnyblankenship

Links Mentioned

Grant Professional Mentorship

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This Podcast Episode is Lovingly Sponsored by: