This presentation is designed to help organizational leaders better understand how to create more stable, diversified, and predictable funding models in an increasingly competitive and uncertain environment.

Meet Phil Auger, Ph.D.

Founder and CEO
Grants New England



Phil Auger, Ph.D., is the Founder and CEO of Grants New England, a Rhode Island–based grant consulting firm that partners with nonprofit organizations to strengthen fundraising capacity and secure competitive grant funding.

His work focuses on aligning organizational strategy with funding opportunities, developing compelling proposals, and building systems that support long-term grant success. Phil has supported nonprofits across sectors including education, workforce development, health, arts and culture, and community-based services. In addition to his grant development work, he has extensive experience in educational leadership, including overseeing major school fundraising and capital initiatives.

Principal & Founder, Tuni Schartner Consulting Co-founder, The Hive RI Leads the Connections Team at Grants New England Tuni Schartner is a growth strategist, ecosystem builder, and connector with extensive experience supporting nonprofits, entrepreneurs, and community-based organizations throughout Rhode Island. She is the Principal & Founder of Tuni Schartner Consulting, co-founder of The Hive RI, and leads the Connections Team at Grants New England, where she helps organizations strengthen strategy, partnerships, storytelling, fundraising readiness, and sustainable growth initiatives. Tuni has served in executive leadership roles across nonprofit and economic development sectors and is known for her collaborative, relationship-driven approach to organizational growth and community impact.