About Matthew
Turning Data Into Decisions That Change Lives
Hi, I’m Matthew Courtney.
I didn’t start out in boardrooms or at conference podiums. My journey began in a sweltering elementary school classroom on a July afternoon in rural Kentucky. As a first-year music teacher, I met students whose stories changed the trajectory of my life.
Each child taught me that lasting impact comes from understanding the people you serve, setting bold goals, and relentlessly tracking progress toward them.
I founded my first nonprofit when I was 26. We made a real impact—but when a major grant didn’t come through, we ran out of money. I hadn’t planned well, and I lost everything. That experience changed my life and sparked my mission: to help small and start-up nonprofits build the strategy and evidence they need to thrive.
From Classrooms to Communities
Over the years, my work has taken me from teaching to building systems that help schools, nonprofits, and community organizations succeed. I’ve:
Founded a nonprofit, served as executive director for three others, and held leadership roles on more boards than I can count—including Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary.
Led program evaluations that uncovered critical insights and shaped million-dollar funding decisions in fields ranging from education and substance use to public health and community organizing.
Facilitated strategic planning processes that brought diverse teams together around a shared mission and measurable goals.
Developed tools and training that empower leaders to use data not just for reporting, but for real-time decision-making.
I’ve worked at every level of the system—from grassroots community initiatives to state-level policy design—helping organizations connect their mission to measurable results.
My Approach
I believe every nonprofit deserves:
A strategic plan that clearly shows how your daily work leads to long-term change.
Program evaluations that are academically rigorous—publishable even—and prove your impact.
The confidence to say to funders, “Here’s the difference we’re making—and here’s the proof.”
For me, strategic planning and program evaluation aren’t check-the-box exercises. They’re the backbone of continuous improvement—ensuring your mission stays on track, your resources are focused, and your impact grows year after year.
Why We Should Work Together
I help people who help people. Whether you’re just getting started or rebuilding after a setback, my goal is to help you develop systems that show your value, attract funding, and make your mission sustainable. My dream is to help make your dream a reality.
Clarify your goals so your team knows exactly where you’re headed.
Measure your progress so you can adapt quickly and effectively.
