I’m a funding strategist and adjunct professor who supports doctoral scholars in navigating academic funding with clarity, confidence, and strategy. I currently teach grant writing to graduate students at the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) and hold a Grant Writing and Administration Certificate from California State University, Dominguez Hills. As a recipient of multiple competitive scholarships, I bring both professional training and lived experience to the funding process.
For the past 5+ years, I’ve worked closely with doctoral students across coursework, proposal, and dissertation stages to identify aligned funding opportunities and develop strong, fundable applications. My approach centers transparency, skill-building, and empowerment—demystifying the hidden curriculum of academic funding so scholars can access resources without burnout or gatekeeping.
I don’t just help scholars apply for funding—I help them understand how funding systems work, so they can move forward with greater agency, confidence, and intention.
Hi, I’m Cori Franco.
What began as a commitment to equity in academic funding has grown into a coaching practice grounded in clarity, care, and intention. My approach goes beyond process—I take time to understand your goals, context, and capacity, guiding you through funding pathways with purpose at every step. Together, we focus on building skill, confidence, and sustainable strategies—not just applications.
My Approach
What Doctoral Scholars Say
Reflections from doctoral scholars navigating funding with clarity and confidence through working with Cori.
Support
“Coriiii! It was wonderful engaging with you this semester. You helped me cross off a goal on my bucket list—applying for grants. Thank you for this gift of knowledge and support!”
Excellent
“I was initially apprehensive because I didn’t know all the steps or how to approach the process. But Cori did an EXCELLENT job breaking the process into manageable pieces and guiding us every step of the way.”
Fantastic
“Cori built a fantastic program and did an excellent job teaching it.”
Wonderful
“This is a wonderful course, not only for grant writing but also to build clarity on the goals for one's work. It helps to reflect on the PhD work itself in having to articulate and communicate it effectively.”
Best
“Cori did a wonderful job in laying out the information and helping the students find a grant that fits them best.”
Future
“I walked away feeling like my ability to fund my future study and academic ventures are in my hands.”
Value
“My biggest takeaway was recognizing the value of community support and 1:1 coaching (encouragement) in this process - there was SO MUCH VALUE in having a "people" space for this work, beyond a how-to manual.”
Let’s work together.
Every funding journey is unique. Complete the form below to tell me about your research, funding goals, and where you are in the process. I'll review your information and reach out with the best next steps.
Ready to fund your future?
Book a Complimentary Discovery Call
A 15-minute conversation to discuss your research, funding goals, and determine the best next step for your funding journey.