About Me

You have a mission to lead. I'll help you fund it.

I work with leaders and teams at environmental organizations to develop the strategies, capabilities, and processes they need to secure grants more consistently and sustainably.

Alejandra Salazar Dreja

Founder of Socio-Environmental Project Design

My Story

Why I Do What I Do

Ever since I was young, I have been interested in nature conservation and sustainable development.

That interest led me to study International Relations. I wanted to understand how international cooperation works and how to mobilize more resources for conservation and sustainable development.

In more than 20 years in the sector, I have led programs, developed projects, and secured funding to bring them to life. I have seen firsthand how difficult it is for organizations to secure the resources they need. But I’ve also learned that, with the right strategies and processes, their chances of securing funding increase.

I am deeply motivated to help ensure that the work of individuals and organizations who dedicate their lives to improving our world is properly valued and funded.

That is why, in 2022, I founded Diseño de Proyectos Socioambientales (DPSA). Since then, I have collaborated with more than 30 organizations, primarily in Latin America, to help them strengthen their fundraising capacity and increase their impact. 

My Experience

I know what's at stake. And I know how to help you.

01

I've been on both sides of the table

I have managed grant-funded programs and have also evaluated proposals for foundations. I know what it takes to secure funding and what grantmakers are looking for.

02

I understand what it means to lead an organization

I have managed teams and worked closely with a board of directors. I understand the pressure of securing resources and being accountable for results.

03

I have experience raising funds for complex projects

I have coordinated proposals—some involving consortia of up to nine organizations—that collectively secured $45.5 million in funding.

04

My goal is for your team to be able to move forward without depending on me

I work with the people you already have to establish guidelines, processes, and tools that they can continue to use year after year.

A system that does not depend on a single person

“The mentoring program helped us strengthen our organization from within: we identified our weaknesses in managing our finances, and it guided us in designing a fundraising system to ensure more organized and efficient processes. We also learned about practical and very useful tools. Today, we have a clear understanding of our identity, our internal policies, and our fundraising strategy.”

Marina Hirales Cota, Program Manager, Alliance for Community Regeneration (ARCo)

Free

Where should I start?

The Grant Assessment shows you, in just a few minutes, where your organization stands and what you should focus on improving first. It's free, and you'll receive a seven-day plan to help you take the first step.

Tell me where my organization is at →