Details
GRANTS CAFÉ-March 25, 2026, 12:00 PM-1:00 PM
Title: Upskilling Grant & Fundraising Capacity with Professional Credentials & Practical AI Applications
This session will focus on strengthening nonprofit capacity in grants and fundraising by leveraging professional credentialing (CFRE and GPC), as well as the practical uses of AI tools. Presenters will discuss the impact of professional credentialing on individual and organizational growth, offering practical steps and resources, along with information about an upcoming GPC Study Group. Presenters will also discuss AI tools and how this technology is being used to boost efficiency and build capacity, with an emphasis on effective, responsible use and the GPA’s AI ethics standards.
Katherine FH Heart, GPC, M.Ed., President of Heart Resources, LLC, has 24 years of experience providing grant services to nonprofits in Western PA, and 18 years offering regional and national grant training, along with grant reviews for foundations and federal agencies. She achieved the Grant Professional Certified credential in 2013 and was the first Approved Trainer by the Grant Professionals Association in 2014. In the role of GPC Ambassador to the Grants Cafe, she has facilitated local and national GPC Study Groups and was honored with the Pauline G. Annarino Award in 2024 for providing training to develop future GPC Study Group leaders. Before discovering the grants profession, Katherine served as a program and training manager at Pittsburgh nonprofits for 15 years.
Chris Crytzer, CFRE, Certified Fund Raising Executive, has raised millions of dollars for nonprofit organizations through diverse fundraising initiatives.
With a proven track record in securing corporate,
foundation, and government grants, she is passionate about empowering nonprofits to achieve their missions and thrive.
Chris has built a consulting business by developing customized fundraising strategies, including
planning activities, implementation, and staff training. She mentors early-career fundraising professionals and has served as a grant reviewer. Previous roles included grant writer, director of development, and associate
director of external relations for a multifaceted social service organization. She is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), Pittsburgh Planned Giving Council (PPGC), and Entrepreneurs Forever.