Who We Are
Talem uses an intersectional, equity-based framework that centers the leadership and lived experiences of the communities most impacted by injustice.
Founded in 2011, Talem Consulting partners with nonprofits to build collective power, secure resources, and dismantle systems of oppression. Our name reflects our values—Talem draws from the Latin word talis (distinguished or empowered) and the Arabic taÊ»lÄ«m (education, instruction). That dual meaning mirrors our commitment to building knowledge, power, and equity in every engagement. We support nonprofits from conception to completion—whether through strategic planning, fundraising implementation, or team coaching and training—always tailored to your goals, culture, and community.
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We believe in the leadership of communities most impacted by injustice. Whether your budget is $50,000 or $100 million, we’ll work alongside you to amplify your mission, deepen your impact, and grow your movement. Our team is committed to providing values-driven, equity-centered support that helps you thrive—not just survive. ​
Our Mission
To empower nonprofits with the tools needed to build capacity, fundraise, and dismantle systems of inequity.
Our Approach
We practice culturally responsive, justice-centered fundraising that embraces a horizontal philanthropy mindset—treating donors, nonprofits, and communities as equal partners in change. We reject transactional models in favor of building authentic relationships rooted in trust, accountability, and shared liberation.
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Using a data-informed and values-driven approach, we help organizations:
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Build sustainable, equity-aligned budgets
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Grow financial reserves without compromising mission
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Diversify funding sources to reduce dependency
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Launch or expand community-driven programs
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Strengthen internal systems to reflect transparency, care, and resilience
We believe fundraising is not just about raising money—it’s about resourcing movements for long-term impact.
Our Core Values
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Mission-Driven Impact
We center our work around your mission, aiming for sustainable, transformative outcomes that uplift communities and shift power. -
Equity-Centered Partnerships
We ground our services in racial justice, queer liberation, anti-Islamophobia, disability justice, and reproductive freedom—working to dismantle oppressive systems alongside the communities most impacted. -
Personalized Support & Collaborative Solutions
No two organizations are the same. We co-create tailored strategies rooted in your values, strengths, and vision for justice. -
Courageous Dialogue & Real-World Action
We foster brave, honest conversations and translate them into pragmatic, equity-driven solutions that move your work forward. -
Inspired Leadership & Donor Engagement
We help you cultivate values-aligned leadership and connect with donors who believe in liberation, equity, and lasting change. -
Integrity & Accountability
We uphold the highest standards of ethics and transparency in every aspect of our work, centering trust, responsibility, and shared learning.
Building a Successful
Partnership Together
Strong partnerships are built on shared accountability, mutual respect, and clear communication. To ensure we can support your mission effectively and equitably, we ask the following from our client partners:
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Collaborative Buy-In
We ask for full support and active engagement from your organization’s leadership—this includes your primary contact, executive team, and board—so we can work together toward shared goals with transparency and alignment.
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Consistent Communication
We hold monthly Zoom check-ins for retainer and project clients to review progress and recalibrate as needed. We also welcome ongoing communication by phone or email to celebrate wins, address challenges, and keep work moving. We strive to respond within 24–48 business hours and appreciate the same in return.
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Timely Payment
We ask that invoices be paid within 15–30 days to ensure continuity of services and mutual trust in our working relationship.
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Responsive Feedback
To stay on schedule and meet project goals, we ask that you review and provide feedback on deliverables within 7–14 days, depending on the project scope.
Next Steps
When appropriate, Talem Consulting will provide a written proposal that includes:
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Our understanding of your goals and needs
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A recommended, equity-centered approach tailored to your organization
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A clear structure for the work, including roles, deliverables, and timelines
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Anticipated outcomes and impact aligned with your mission
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Estimated project timeline and investment
Our proposals are designed to foster shared clarity, transparency, and partnership from the start.
Building our Relationship
Our work begins with deep listening—to your mission, your community, and your goals. We take time to understand:
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Your organization’s history, values, and specific needs
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Your current scope, priorities, and long-term vision
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The key issues to address and the services most aligned with your goals
Together, we co-create a strategy that reflects the strengths and lived realities of your community. This includes:
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A shared understanding of the project’s purpose and scope
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A values-informed discovery or assessment process
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Clear, actionable phases of work
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A realistic estimate of time, effort, and cost
This collaborative process ensures our work is rooted in trust, clarity, and a shared commitment to impact.