The Budget Center communications team chatted with Emma Carmody (she/her), Development Strategist.
This Q&A series is your chance to get to know our team, their areas of expertise, and how their work at the Budget Center supports policy change in California. In this conversation, we’ll explore Emma’s recent efforts to build and cultivate philanthropic relationships with institutional and individual funders dedicated to creating a more equitable California.
This interview was edited by Kat Petsalis, Communications Strategist at the Budget Center.
Can you tell us about your role at the Budget Center?
Absolutely! As a development strategist, my role is focused on fundraising to ensure the Budget Center has the resources it needs to operate effectively. This involves making sure we’re fully staffed, funding necessary travel, and generally supporting all aspects of our work that are crucial for advancing more equitable policies in California. Some of my responsibilities include securing donations from both existing and new individual donors, as well as working closely with foundations for grant funding. This means maintaining relationships with program officers, writing grants, and organizing various events, including our annual conference.
What inspired your interest in development, both as a career and within the public policy sphere?
After graduating college in 2020, I wasn’t entirely sure what direction I wanted to take. My major was in economics and international business, but I knew my passion lay in public policy and politics. I knew I wanted to contribute toward meaningful change. Initially, I wasn’t aware that organizations like the Budget Center or the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP) even existed. However, I applied for a development internship with CBPP in 2020 and got it.
Through that experience, I gained insight into how nonprofits operate in the policy space. I had initially thought that working in policy would require a Master’s degree or becoming a policy expert, like an analyst. However, during my internship, I discovered that roles on the organizational side, such as development, operations, communications, and outreach, are equally critical. These positions still allow you to engage with policy and make a meaningful impact.
I realized that my skills were better suited for development than for data analysis, and I grew passionate about the dynamics of philanthropy and how we can improve it. I also loved the variety in the work — every day brings something different, and I enjoy being able to connect with people and contribute to a cause I care about.
What is something you’re proud to have worked on at the Budget Center?
I’m especially proud of my work on Policy Insights, our annual conference. Over the past two years, I’ve led efforts to coordinate with funders and our Board, including organizing a dinner the night before and a funder briefing. We’ve had a record number of funders attend, which is a big achievement, especially during a time when in-person events are harder to organize. I love the dinner event because it allows staff, Board members, and funders to connect on a more personal level, which is invaluable for building strong relationships.
Are there any areas you’re excited to dive deeper into?
Definitely! I’m excited about event planning with a purpose, particularly strategizing who should attend and what we should discuss. But I’ve also really enjoyed working with institutional funders like foundations. Meeting with program officers, aligning our goals, and crafting grant proposals or reports have been highlights for me. This work often involves collaborating with our analyst colleagues, which gives me more insight into public policy. I love learning from them and understanding where we align with potential funders. It’s also rewarding to see relationships we’ve built over the years turn into meaningful funding. So, event planning and working with institutional funders are areas I’m eager to explore further.
What’s one thing you can’t get through the workday without?
I’d say two things: a snack and a walk. I need a little pick-me-up during the day, usually an apple with peanut butter or popcorn. If not a snack, then a quick walk around the block helps me get through the last couple of hours of the work day.
How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
I really love traveling. When I first moved here, I was amazed at how many places you could explore from Sacramento, so I’d often take day trips or weekend getaways. It’s incredible how much the scenery can change within just a short drive. My favorite spot in California is the North Coast, especially the small towns and Mendocino — I’ve already been there three times this year!
