Faith in Place Case Study: Market Expansion Strategy for Environmental Justice Nonprofit

The Challenge: Navigating Post-Pandemic Expansion for a Mission-Driven Organization

Faith in Place, a Chicago-based environmental justice advocacy organization, emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic with an ambitious vision: expanding its mission into three additional states. But growth of this magnitude required more than enthusiasm—it demanded rigorous scenario planning, market research, and a data-driven strategy that could earn board approval and provide a clear path forward.

The organization needed a consulting partner who could bring analytical rigor to the expansion planning process while genuinely understanding the unique dynamics of mission-driven nonprofits. With limited internal resources for large-scale market analysis, Faith in Place sought outside expertise to evaluate feasibility, map the competitive landscape, and develop actionable recommendations for sustainable growth.

Our Solution: Data-Driven Market Research & Strategic Scenario Planning

18 Coffees partnered with Faith in Place to conduct a comprehensive market feasibility study and develop strategic expansion recommendations. Using a data-driven approach to ground key areas of inquiry, our team delivered the analytical foundation the organization needed to make a confident, board-ready decision about its future.

Our engagement included an analysis of prospective donors and partners in target markets, in-depth market research on the competitive landscape for environmental justice advocacy, facilitated stakeholder interviews with key internal and external voices, and strategic scenario planning that mapped out multiple pathways for expansion. We designed the strategic planning process for two target expansion markets, providing Faith in Place with a clear framework for evaluating opportunities and managing risk.

Key Services Delivered:

• Market Research & Feasibility Analysis
• Scenario Planning & Strategic Recommendations
• Donor & Partner Landscape Assessment
• Stakeholder Interviews & Engagement
• Strategic Planning Process Design
• Board Presentation Development

Tangible Impact: Board-Approved Expansion Strategy

18 Coffees’ research findings and strategic recommendations earned unanimous expansion approval from the Faith in Place board of directors. By mapping out different scenarios for growth and grounding each in market data, we gave the board the confidence to move forward with a clear, evidence-based plan for expanding into new states.

The engagement demonstrated 18 Coffees’ ability to serve as a true strategic partner for mission-driven organizations—bringing the same level of analytical rigor and strategic sophistication that large enterprises expect, delivered with a genuine commitment to the client’s mission and impact.

Project Details:

• Project Length: 0–6 Months
• Client Location: Chicago, IL
• Industry: Nonprofit / Environmental Justice
• Client Type: Small Enterprise

Is your nonprofit exploring growth or expansion into new markets? Contact us to discover how our consulting expertise can help you build a data-driven strategy that earns stakeholder buy-in.