We had the good fortune of connecting with Chermain Jennings and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chermain, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
During college, I would often daydream about my future and always envisioned myself as a CEO. I didn’t have a clear “how” or “what” but that idea was always present. After completing my masters program in 2015 and being let go from my job due to a company rift, I soon realized that “job security” wasn’t really a thing. Shortly after relocating to Texas, I started to think about how I could leverage my gifts, talents, skills, and experience for my personal benefit.  I wasn’t comfortable with the idea of my livelihood and time being determined by someone else. Add that to constant thoughts of feeling replaceable, undervalued, underutilized, and overlooked and you get C.JENNINGS LLC. Realizing I could use the same skills and experience I brought to previous employers and package it for myself to operate a business of my own is really how it all started. That was the process behind starting C.JENNINGS LLC. Federal Grants Consulting.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am the CEO and Principal Consultant at C.JENNINGS LLC. Federal Grants Consulting. My services cater to inexperienced Nonprofit professionals wanting to confidently submit competitive Government Grants. My goal with my business is to teach, support, and assist Nonprofit organizations in their journey to writing compliant, compelling, and competitive Government Grant proposal applications. Additionally, I am a full-time Proposal Writer for a Fortune 500 company.

When I am not wearing either of those hats, I am encouraging other professionals to pursue their dreams. What makes my story unique is that I never intended to be a full-time writer, or a CEO in this capacity, but here I am. Somehow, the intersection of gifts and purpose aligned. Romans 8:28 says, “All things work together for the good of those who love the Lord and are called to his purpose.” This scripture is the epitome of how I got to this point personally and professionally. Life can be really challenging but it can be equally rewarding. My journey to CEO wouldn’t be as full or nearly as interesting without all the moments of discomfort. So, I encourage everyone to keep pushing because the blessings are in lessons.

I am extremely proud of myself and what I have accomplished thus far. The business, the launching of my signature service Get It Submitted: Federal Grants Submission Coaching™, and staying true to my personal mantra to Educate. Liberate. Be Great! That’s been the driving force behind my success and can be the key to yours!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We have to go to Trinity Groves not only for the views and vibes but Cake Bar! You can’t visit Dallas and not experience the Strawberry or Key Lime cake. It’s an absolute must. Next up… Torchy’s Tacos, Velvet Tacos, and Bam’s Vegan. Vegan or not, you have to experience his food! Additional stops would include, Deep Ellum, Bishop Arts, Uptown…I guess everywhere! There are so many places to explore here so depending on the mood there’s definitely an option for you.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I owe this entire journey from the beginning to God, my parents, family and friends. Thank you all for listening to my dreams and encouraging me along the way while ignoring my dramatics- and loving me all the same. Special thank you to my mentors who have given me opportunities to see and be seen! Lastly, my accountability circle and fellow entrepreneurs: Alexis Daniels (A.N.D. Made By Hand), Ashley Nicole (RA Warrior Fitness), Drika Jacobs (Be Worthy Co), and Elisha McGhee (Page Eleven Paper Goods).

Website: CJenningsllc.com

Instagram: ChermainJennings

Linkedin: Chermain Jennings

Image Credits
Mena Darré ShotByMello

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