An Exciting New Chapter for Wordhorse

Wordhorse has always been a creative partner for arts organizations. I founded the company in 2017 because many small arts organizations had asked me for help with grant research and writing, campaign planning, strategic plans, and donor communications. I think it’s fair to say it was built on a traditional consulting model, which involved recurring clients, project-based work, board trainings, and guest lecturing. (And, yes, for those in the know, it was also a way to merge my creative practice and my professional background to support artists, arts organizations, and the creation of new work.)  

In 2022, when I accepted the role of President and Executive Director at Ucross Foundation, I dialed back Wordhorse so that I could focus all my energy on leading that beloved residency program through a critical period of growth and transition. As a consultant, I had worked with Ucross for four years before taking on the executive role, and through a consultant's lens, I saw myself as a bridge to the next President and Executive Director. After nearly three years of splitting my time between New York and Wyoming (and after a comprehensive succession plan), I began thinking about what was next for Wordhorse.

I spent months in conversation with artists, artist-leaders, and emerging professionals. I asked what they needed most from a “full-service consulting firm” like Wordhorse. The answers were consistent—flexibility, different entry points for different budget realities, access to tools and training, and creative partnership.

What’s Changing

With those conversations on my mind, I’m happy to unveil Wordhorse’s new hybrid model. We still offer traditional consulting, including recurring work, project work, board and staff training, and hands-on implementation support, but we’re also in the process of expanding to include digital resources designed for leaders who need support but can’t commit to a traditional consulting agreement.

In the coming months, we’ll be launching online courses, peer community memberships, and practical tools that allow you to strengthen your organization’s fundraising on your own timeline and budget.

Whether you’re an executive director navigating funding transitions or a board member working to strengthen your governance practices, these new offerings are designed to meet you where you are. Some leaders need comprehensive partnership. Others need targeted resources they can apply immediately. Both approaches matter.

What Stays the Same

Wordhorse remains committed to creative problem-solving and a story-first approach. We believe that effective fundraising emerges from clear storytelling and shared purpose, that strategy and writing are inseparable, and that the best solutions come from understanding your organization’s unique role in the field.

Our focus remains on small- to mid-sized arts organizations and nonprofits whose teams are stretched thin and who need a partner to build a bridge toward financial sustainability. As always, Wordhorse isn’t just about advice and analysis. We offer creative problem-solving and tailored solutions to client’s needs. We remain committed to helping arts organizations thrive during challenging and uncertain times.

Looking Ahead

I hope you’ll explore the new site, sign up for Wordhorse’s weekly newsletter, and download the free guide “How to Talk to Donors When You Hate Asking for Money.” Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive consulting partnership or resources to strengthen your practice on your own time, Wordhorse is here to support your work.