What’s Beyond the Bootstrap? How I Built and Transitioned from a Solo Project to a Sponsored Nonprofit

Recently, I sat in a meeting that marked a turning point after months of navigating the fiscal sponsorship process. In that moment, I felt a profound sense of relief—I am finally stepping off the solo track. For the last four years, I have poured my energy into cultivating Mahogany Mothers Circle (MMC), which began as a virtual support space for mothers during the pandemic. Over time, it has transformed in ways I couldn’t have anticipated. In this meeting with my now official fiscal sponsor, my mind flashed back through the journey that led here. Years of heavy lifting are now shared, and I’m positioned as Executive Director of a program that has been deeply personal and all-encompassing.

Mahogany Mothers Circle has, until now, been a passion project financed from my own pocket. I kept it alive by reinvesting funds from life insurance sales, various jobs, and project contracts. Although challenging, the relationships forged during this time became far more valuable than any monetary amount I spent. But now, my focus is shifting. I’m preparing for discussions centered on sustainable funding and envisioning the next chapter of MMC, which will start by launching our Honey K. Fitness Club.

The Honey K. Fitness Club is a postpartum fitness support program built to support mothers’ wellness as they transition into new stages of motherhood. Through partnerships with VASA Fitness, which has continuously backed our mission, and Natural Grocers, who are open to new possibilities, we are beginning a fresh chapter. I am incredibly grateful to be working with organizations that not only value my creativity but also encourage practical innovations that address the real needs families experience.

There are countless individuals and organizations that have been alongside me throughout MMC’s extended pilot phase, and I want to share six key lessons I’ve learned for anyone seeking to escape the “cliff effect” of bootstrapping and take their vision to new heights.

1. Relationships Take Time to Cultivate—Be Patient

In the early days of MMC, every connection felt urgent, as if each new relationship could be the one to propel us forward. I learned, however, that quality relationships are not built overnight. They require mutual respect, consistent effort, and time. Genuine partnerships—those that will ultimately provide the backing your organization needs—are founded on trust and understanding, which don’t come quickly. Allow yourself the patience to nurture these relationships authentically.

2. Trust the Process, Even When Ideas Fail

Not every idea will work, and that’s okay. Some of the best lessons come from the initiatives that didn’t turn out as planned. There were times when MMC initiatives didn’t quite hit the mark, or when a collaboration didn’t go as expected. These setbacks taught me resilience and sharpened my focus. I’ve learned to trust that each step, even the missteps, is part of the journey. Embrace failure as an essential part of the creative and strategic process.

3. Prepare for Fallouts—Values May Shift

As your organization grows, you may find that the values of early supporters or partners no longer align with your evolving mission. This is natural but can be difficult to navigate. MMC experienced times when values shifted, and some partnerships no longer felt aligned. While it’s hard, releasing relationships that no longer serve your mission can make room for new, more aligned connections. Remember, this isn’t about burning bridges but about staying true to the core of your work.

4. Learn to Cope When the Next Step Isn’t Clear

Bootstrapping often involves leaps of faith into uncharted territory. There were times with MMC when I didn’t know what the next step should be. The uncertainty can be paralyzing, but I found that staying grounded, reaching out to mentors, and leaning into my support network helped me move forward. It’s crucial to develop coping mechanisms that keep you calm and centered when the future feels unclear. This resilience will empower you to face uncertainty head-on.

5. Finding the Right Sponsor Takes Time, But It’s Worth the Wait

Identifying a fiscal sponsor that aligned with MMC’s mission and was willing to support us wasn’t easy, and it certainly wasn’t quick. After a long search, I finally found an organization that not only understood our goals but also had the infrastructure to underwrite and support our growth. Don’t rush this decision—finding a sponsor who is committed to your cause and can truly back your initiatives is crucial for your organization’s sustainability.

6. Rejection is Integral—And Valuable

I cannot tell you how many unanswered emails, empty promises, and unprofessional experiences I’ve encountered on this journey. Each rejection helped shape a clearer rubric for MMC, allowing us to better identify if a relationship is genuine and if follow-through is likely. Though rejection stings, it is incredibly valuable—it has refined our ability to seek and build partnerships that truly align with our mission. I am thankful for the setbacks and closed doors, as they ultimately led us to the right opportunities and allies.

Looking Forward to 2025

Now, with a fiscal sponsor in place, I am ready to tackle 2025 with a renewed sense of purpose. My focus is on securing the funding that will bring MMC’s programming to life on a larger scale. With the Honey K. Fitness Club in motion, I’m excited to expand our impact and further amplify the cause, ensuring that the voices of those we serve are heard and valued. This journey has been challenging, but I am driven by the incredible potential I see for MMC’s future—and I am ready to make it happen.

If you’re on the path of bootstrapping your passion, remember to stay resilient, stay grounded, and keep going. The journey is worth it.

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