About

Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Psalm 127:1

Brian Canavan serves as President and CEO of North Star Impact Group, where he partners with mission-driven organizations to strengthen leadership, grow philanthropic support, and expand their impact.

With more than 17 years of nonprofit leadership experience, Brian works alongside executive teams and boards to help organizations clarify strategy, strengthen fundraising efforts, and build sustainable systems for growth. His experience spans nonprofit organizations, foundations, healthcare philanthropy, education initiatives, and faith-based ministries.

Brian also advises athletes and business leaders who want to maximize the impact of their charitable and philanthropic efforts.

Known for his relational leadership style and practical approach to strategy, Brian helps leaders align mission, strategy, and philanthropy so their organizations can move from transactional to transformational.

A proud Columbus local, Brian finds his balance through family and community. He is a devoted husband, father to two daughters, and dog dad to their rescue pup Teddy. Brian is an avid hockey player who still enjoys the grit of the game.

Courtney Osborn serves as our Client Success Coordinator, bringing a unique blend of mission-driven heart and financial-sector precision to North Star Impact Group. With deep roots in non-profit work and ministry, she understands the "heartbeat" of the organizations we serve. Courtney ensures every project is executed with meticulous detail and a relationship-first mindset.

Outside of the office, Courtney and her husband stay busy keeping up with their three children and enjoying the beauty of the Columbus Metro Parks.

Our Network of Specialists

In addition to our core team, our work is strengthened by a trusted network of experienced specialists who join engagements when their expertise can accelerate impact. Over years of leadership in nonprofit, philanthropic, and mission-driven organizations, we have built relationships with professionals who share our values and commitment to excellence. When projects require additional expertise, we bring together the right people to serve our clients well—often with no additional cost to the partner organization. This model allows organizations to access a deep bench of talent without the overhead of a large consulting firm. Depending on the needs of each engagement, North Star may draw from specialists in areas such as:

• Marketing and brand strategy

• Communications and storytelling, including cost-effective video production

• Donor research and prospect strategy

• Major gift coaching and development training

• Grant strategy and foundation relations

• Data analytics and CRM strategy

• Digital engagement and fundraising technology

• Event management and implementation

• Financial modeling and philanthropic forecasting

• Organizational culture and leadership development

• Church and nonprofit law

• Planned giving strategy and implementation

• Strategic partnerships and collaborative initiatives

• Executive search and mission-aligned hiring

Each specialist we work with is selected based on experience, integrity, and a shared commitment to helping mission-driven organizations thrive.

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