Previously published on CU Insight.
A co-created platform, led by Julie Ferguson and Deliana Gamez
JRF Consulting, founded by Julie Ferguson, CUDE, has introduced Backstage — A BD NOW Community, a co-created platform designed to expand learning, connection, and impact for community and business development professionals.
Backstage builds on seven years of momentum from the BD NOW Innovation Summit and the strength of Summit Nation — the collective of Summit participants — while creating space for more voices, deeper learning, and greater impact throughout the year.
“Backstage exists because this work deserves ongoing investment,” said Deliana Gamez. “Community and business development professionals are shaping strategy, building partnerships, and driving growth every day. Backstage creates a place to learn from one another, sharpen thinking, and apply insight with intention.”
A Shared Vision, Built Intentionally
In November, Ferguson expanded her business with clear goals: to build community, create impact, and be a catalyst for change — grounded in talent development, strategy, and data-driven insights.
Ferguson and Gamez share a core belief that strategic partnerships are the heartbeat of organic growth. Backstage reflects that belief by bringing growth-focused people together to learn, challenge one another, and elevate the work.
“Backstage is about momentum,” said Julie Ferguson. “It’s a way to extend the power of Summit Nation, invite more voices into the conversation, and create more opportunities to learn and grow together.”
Launching with a Modern Trailblazer
The first Backstage workshop will be held February 9th, and led by Jimese Harkley, Chief Community Engagement Officer at Harborstone Credit Union.
Titled “Modern Day Trailblazers: Reimagining Community Impact,” the session will explore how today’s community leaders are reshaping engagement, partnership, and impact — and what it takes to lead in a rapidly evolving environment.
“Our first workshop represents exactly what Backstage is about,” said Gamez. “Jimese brings curiosity, courage, spark, and lived experience to the conversation — and she reflects the leadership this moment requires.”
What Backstage Offers
Backstage is designed for community and business development professionals, leaders, and teams who want to grow their impact with intention.
Backstage — A BD NOW Community is a 12-month subscription designed to:
- Develop talent through shared insight and peer learning
- Strengthen strategy with practical, experience-driven frameworks
- Apply data insights to guide smarter decisions
- Create space for more voices and greater collective impact
Backstage includes exclusive workshops, conversations, and learning experiences available only to subscribers.
“At its core, Backstage is about cooperation among cooperatives — the sixth principle of the cooperative movement,” said Julie Ferguson. “When we work together, we create greater impact.”
