Meet Jana Hexter, GPC

If you’re anything like me, you want to know who’s guiding the journey—not just what they’ve done. So, here’s a bit about both.

The Official Credentials

I’ve spent over two decades immersed in the art, science, and spirit of grant writing—helping visionary people to win the funding that fuels real change. Along the way, I’ve:

• Raised over $100 million through 150+ funded proposals for school districts, universities, and human service agencies.
• Authored Grant Writing Revealed, a book based on interviews from 25 grant professionals who collectively raised $1.7 billion through 24,000 proposals.
• Helped to write the national exam for the Grant Professionals Certification (GPC) by serving as a Subject Matter Expert.
• Taught hundreds of nonprofit professionals to write winning proposals—with graduates of my courses raising tens of millions and creating regional collaborations.
• Served as a program officer for a grant making program at Cornell University for 10 years.
• Co-taught one of the most-subscribed webinars in Chronicle of Philanthropy history.
• Taught at NYU’s Heyman Center for Philanthropy.
• Presented at national GPA and AFP conferences, earning top ratings.

But what I’m most proud of? Empowering good people to trust their voice, align with their purpose, and lead with authenticity.

The Soul Behind the Strategy

I’ve always enjoyed instigating new initiatives, challenging what’s outdated or not working, and helping others walk their own unexpected path. I often turn up in people’s lives when they are at a crossroads – and we walk through it together.

Born in the land of Robin Hood, I now live on the edge of a forest by a waterfall in the beautiful Finger Lakes of New York. When not at my desk, I can most often be found hiking in the woods, sitting by the lake, or twirling on a dance floor (I love the Dances of Universal Peace). I’m also an intuitive and share guidance from the eternal through The Jana Channel.

In 2017, I walked the 500-mile Camino de Santiago with my daughter and in 2018 we completed the Camino Portuguese. My son and I also hiked deep into the Grand Canyon with friends. These soul-nourishing journeys are a privilege and a gift and I believe that the world would be a more peaceful and kind place if we all had the opportunity to go on a pilgrimage. We may not be able to walk side-by-side, but I bring the spirit of the pilgrimage into my work: focused, aligned action in community with kindred spirits.

If you're curious about working together or want a feel for my approach, I’d love to offer you a copy of my book and to take the Find Your Grant Writing Strengths Quiz to help you discover your grant writing strengths. Just click here to sign up to receive them.

Let’s walk this life’s path together with impact —authentically, strategically and with soul.