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Hi, I am Dr. Michael Kiragu, the Founder and Principal Consultant at Bell Consultants.
Since 2011, I have worked with and for nonprofit organizations, driven by my belief in their potential to tackle some of society’s most pressing challenges. I am committed to supporting nonprofits through training and coaching because I believe that a world that works for everyone is not only possible—it is urgently needed.
My Journey into Grant Fundraising
Like many nonprofit professionals, my grant fundraising journey began with rejection—more rejection emails than I can count.
In 2014, during an annual staff meeting, the executive director of the nonprofit I was working for delivered the news we had all feared: “We don’t have enough money to keep everyone. We have to let some of you go.”
I was terrified. I had a young family, a mortgage, and financial commitments. How would I survive if I lost my job? Fortunately, I wasn’t among those let go—but many of my colleagues weren’t as lucky. I watched as teammates left with pain and uncertainty in their eyes. My relief quickly turned into guilt.
As a senior manager, I was responsible for helping raise funds for our organization. I felt like I had failed my team. And yet, despite our best efforts, the rejection emails kept coming. Month after month, our grant applications were denied. It was frustrating and demoralizing.
The Turning Point
Everything changed when we received training from a grant fundraising expert. That’s when we learned that successful grant fundraising isn’t just about writing proposals—it’s about systems, strategies, skills, and mindset.
Armed with this knowledge, we transformed our approach. Over the next few years, we secured millions of dollars in grants, ensuring our programs thrived and sustaining the livelihoods of hundreds of nonprofit staff.
This experience shaped my commitment to helping other nonprofits build their grant fundraising capacity—so they never have to face the fear and uncertainty I once did.
What I've Accomplished
Over the years, I have received training and mentorship from leading global fundraising experts and hold multiple Certificates in Fund Raising Management (CFRM) from Indiana University’s Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with renowned organizations such as AMREF Health Africa, Save the Children International, Kenya Red Cross Society, Marie Stopes International, the African Institute for Children Studies, Habitat for Humanity, GoldStar Network, AVAC, and many more.
I have also secured grants from major funders, including PEPFAR, The Global Fund, the UN Family, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Elton John AIDS Foundation—funding that has driven meaningful impact in communities worldwide.
Over the past decade, I have raised more than $100 million from institutional donors, private foundations, and corporate giving programs, helping non-profits expand their reach and transform lives.
My approach to grant fundraising
To make the process easier for others, I developed the R.I.S.E.R.S. Method a comprehensive approach that helps nonprofits to secure sustainable funding for their work.
Relationships
Impeccable Reputation
Systems Organization
Effective Proposal
Research
Superior Reporting
Why I Founded Bell Consultants
Nonprofit organizations play a vital role in providing essential services, especially to marginalized communities. They are often the voice of the people they serve, bringing local knowledge and deep connections to the issues they address. However, many nonprofits struggle to secure the funding needed to sustain their impact.
That’s why Bell Consultants exists—to simplify grant fundraising and equip nonprofits with the tools they need to succeed. Our team of experienced consultants has secured millions in funding, and we’re passionate about sharing what works. We break down complex concepts into clear, practical steps, helping nonprofits move from feeling overwhelmed to making real progress.
With the right guidance, fundraising doesn’t have to be exhausting or uncertain. We help organizations develop a focused, effective fundraising approach so they can secure sustainable funding and stay committed to what matters most—creating lasting impact in their communities.
Work With Us
Our Vision
Effective non-profits organizations
Our Mission
To deepen the impact of nonprofit organizations by providing transformative capacity-building that enhance their success in grant fundraising.
Our Values
Empowerment
Our clients achieve grant fundraising success independently and sustainably.
Integrity
We live to our commitments and uphold the highest level of moral and ethical standards
Excellence
We strive to ensure that all capacity building interventions are of the highest quality.
Results-driven
We pride ourselves on delivering tangible outcomes and measurable success for our clients
Collaboration
We believe in the power of collective action and synergy across sectors.
