What is Behind the Recent Growth of Nonprofit Consulting?

Julia Devine In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Julia Devine of Relatable Nonprofit to explore the rapid rise of nonprofit consulting and why more professionals are moving into this space. Drawing from a new industry report based on responses from 381 nonprofit consultants, Julia shares what is fueling this post-COVID shift and why nonprofits are increasingly turning to consultants and fractional experts to solve urgent capacity gaps. Rob and Julia also unpack some of the biggest myths about nonprofit consulting, including the idea that only certain specialties earn more or that consulting is simply an easy career pivot. They discuss what today’s nonprofit consultants actually do, how retainers and project-based work are shaping the field, and what nonprofit leaders should understand about hiring outside expertise in a changing funding environment. Key Topics Include: Why nonprofit consulting has grown significantly over the last five years, especially after COVID How layoffs, federal funding cuts, and reduced grant support are pushing professionals toward consulting Why nonprofits are hiring consultants and fractional workers instead of adding full-time staff What Julia Devine’s report revealed about consultant earnings, hourly rates, and business models The difference between nonprofit consulting and fractional roles such as CFO, COO, or CEO support Why niche positioning and problem-specific marketing matter more than offering general services How retainer agreements and project-based work are helping consultants build sustainable income Mentioned in This Episode: Relatable Nonprofit This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com

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What is Behind the Recent Growth of Nonprofit Consulting? is an episode from Nonprofit Leadership Podcast by Dr. Rob Harter.

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This episode was published on Mar 15, 2026.

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