Here is a list of our most frequently asked questions:

General

What sets you apart from larger management consulting firms?

At Working Within, we bring a dynamic and youthful energy to the world of management consulting, setting us apart from larger firms. Our team is fueled by the excitement of youth, driven by a collective passion for growth and a burning desire to change the world. Unlike traditional consulting giants, we embody a spirit of innovation and fresh perspectives while also representing our expertise and resource knowledge.

What truly distinguishes us is our unwavering commitment to serving Black social enterprise leaders. This focus not only motivates our team but also aligns us closely with the aspirations and goals of our clients. We understand the urgent need for growth and capacity-building, and we are ready to dive in headfirst.
 

Our staffing model reflects our dedication to making a meaningful impact. With at least two consultants working side by side with our clients, we ensure that the right blend of skills and enthusiasm is brought to the table. This approach accelerates the execution of identified priorities while fostering a collaborative environment for creative solutions.Working Within represents a vibrant force of change, a catalyst for growth, and a partner in shaping a future where innovation meets impact. Join us on this exhilarating journey as we stand ready to make a lasting difference in the world together.

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What is your team's expertise and experience?

Our team has experience with philanthropy, nonprofits, media, marketing, operations, finance, and business management. Our relevant experience with national foundations helps us understand what fundamental organizational pieces must be in place to scale and attract larger dollars. Because of our focus, we continually come across the best resources for our clients that can apply to most of them at once. We’ve built a knowledge base of research and resources that we access for our clients specific needs, including funding opportunities, office space, sponsorship opportunities, and more.

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How do you tailor your approach to meet the needs of individual clients?

Before starting any engagement, we have an introductory conversation to share more about our consulting model and the problems you're looking to solve. From there, we write a custom scope of work and work to revise it with you until it fits your needs. If you'd like to work with us, you can submit an inquiry here.
 

When did you get started?

Working Within was incorporated on July 11th, 2021.

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Consulting

​How long does a Working Within project last?

Our projects last anywhere from six to eighteen months. We value dedication and efficiency; thus, shorter timelines are regrettably not feasible.

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Do you invest in companies directly?
While we do not directly invest in companies, we specialize in assisting our clients in raising capital through our comprehensive consulting services.

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Who will I communicate with during a project?

Within each project, there will be a primary point of contact named in the scope of work. This will always be an Associate Consultant on the team.

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How does billing work?

We bill on a monthly cadence, since we work on projects using a monthly deliverables schedule. At the time of contract signing, we will ask for an upfront payment so we may begin work and a monthly payment schedule will follow from there.

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Do you only work with Black social enterprise leaders?

We do not turn down any clients on the basis of race. Our expertise lies in working with Black led-or-serving social enterprises. Sometimes, we come across non-Black-led, but Black-serving philanthropies or other service organizations that would like to hire us to work with a subset of Black leaders. And, those arrangements have worked well for us.

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How do you ensure confidentiality and protect sensitive information?

Our team of consultants all sign confidentiality agreements when joining the Working Within team. We are also amenable to signing additional confidentiality agreements at your suggestion.

Can you provide references or client testimonials?

Yes, we can. Please email mara@workingwithin.net for the most up-to-date client references.

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What certifications do you have? 

Minority/Women Business Enterprise (MWBE) Certification:
Working Within has been certified as a Minority/Women Business Enterprise (MWBE) by the City and County of Denver's Division of Small Business Opportunity (DSBO). 

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Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Certification:
Working Within has been certified as a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) by the City and County of Denver's Division of Small Business Opportunity (DSBO). 

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Emerging Business Enterprise (EBE) Certification:
Working Within has been certified as an Emerging Business Enterprise (EBE) by the City and County of Denver's Division of Small Business Opportunity (DSBO). 

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Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Certification:
Working Within has been certified as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) by the US Department of Transportation (USDOT).