We meet the moment at critical inflection points.
Red to Black is a collective of strategists, operators, and advisors — assembled to meet the moment. We don't just advise or leave when the plan is finalized. We stay until the work actually works.
We build systems, align stakeholders, and chart the course from red to black — where purpose meets performance.
The Shift We Help With.
Every organization we work with is trying to make a move. Here's what the work looks like.
from reactive → strategic
from fragmented → aligned
from strain → sustainability
from theory → action
from good intentions → measurable outcomes
from in the red → in the black
Who We Work With.
We partner with mission-driven organizations at their critical inflection points — nonprofits, foundations, associations, and mission-aligned companies ready to think strategically, try new ideas, and build what's next.
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What We Do.
Our work spans strategy, revenue, communications, and execution. We tailor every engagement to the organization in front of us, but our goal is always the same: meaningful change you can see, feel, and sustain.
Explore Services →
Strategy & Sustainability
Strategic planning, governance, interim leadership, mergers — the business of staying strong.
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Revenue & Fundraising
Philanthropy strategy, grant development, sponsorships, and sustainable revenue models.
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Marketing, Branding & PR
Messaging, positioning, and the creative work that actually gets noticed — kept in-house.
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Community & Experiences
Stakeholder engagement, events, convenings, and the design of real human moments.
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Innovation & Program Design
New initiatives, pilots, and cross-sector collaboration — grounded in what will actually work.
Meet the Collective.
Red to Black is a team of distinct voices with a shared mindset. Founders, CEOs, builders, and advisors with 20 to 45+ years of experience — translating what we've seen into what you need.
The Connector
Lynley Connor
The Catalyst
Ryan Ponsford
The Synthesizer
Kate Ammerman
The Mobilizer
Wendy Stull
The Executor
Wesley Burt
The Disruptor
Ed Quinlan
The Sage
Field Notes
From the Lab.
Our work doesn't stop at client engagements. The Lab is where we host conversations, run idea sessions, and share what we're learning from the sector — a space for leaders, changemakers, and practical innovators.
Food Justice Action Plan Insights
Key themes from San Diego County's December 2025 FJCAP community meeting, and what they mean for organizations working in this space.
Point of View
The Hidden Cost of Food Recovery
California's food recovery mandate looks like a win-win. But who's actually paying to make it work? The answer reveals a system that functions — but not sustainably.
Read It →
Innovation Insights
AI won't fix your mission — you've got that. What it can fix is the operational grind burning your best people out. Here's what a real playbook looks like.
Let’s Make Moves.
Facing a challenge or exploring an opportunity? Start with a conversation — or take us up on a complimentary Clarity and Growth Assessment.
We invest in you before you invest in us.