Employee Spotlight: Ann Garniss

Our government funding experts are a dedicated team of professionals passionate about helping Canadian businesses succeed. In this blog, we’re spotlighting Ann Garniss, our Senior Consultant, who brings a wealth of expertise in grant writing. Read on to learn more about Ann’s journey, her insights into the grants industry, and her excitement about the future! 

From Technical Writing to Grants: Ann’s Journey 

Ann’s career journey began in a very different place—technical writing. With a degree in English Rhetoric and Professional Writing from the University of Waterloo, she started out creating training and certification documents in the tech industry. “Waterloo is a very technical school,” she explains. “I realized early on that writing wasn’t just about delivering information; it was about engaging the reader.” 

Over the years, Ann’s career evolved from technical writing to management roles, where she was responsible for handling internal and external information. “That experience really changed my perspective and made me more audience-focused,” she says. Eventually, she moved into scientific editing at an academic institution, which gave her a first introduction to the grants landscape. “It was here that I really began to understand how government funding works and what outcomes they’re looking to achieve.” 

When the pandemic hit, Ann found herself searching for a new opportunity. That’s when she came across an opportunity in the grants sector. “It was the perfect fit. My strong writing and communication skills, combined with everything I’d learned about grants, came together seamlessly,” she shares. Ann initially started freelancing, taking on time-sensitive projects, and by January 2022, she joined the team full-time as a Senior Consultant. 

Passion for Grants 

For Ann, working in the grants industry isn’t just a job—it’s a way to make a difference. Coming from an agricultural and entrepreneurial background, she has seen firsthand the importance of supporting small businesses and local communities. “I love working with clients all over Canada, from small businesses to large-scale mining companies,” she says.  

“It’s especially rewarding when a project has a real, measurable impact, whether it’s creating jobs or supporting underserved communities.” 

One of Ann’s favorite aspects of the job is working on projects that consider environmental and social impact, especially in industries like mining, where companies are now more focused on including considerations for First Nations and sustainability. “I’m always surprised by how many companies think about equity, fairness, and inclusivity,” she shares. “It’s a reflection of how the world is changing, and I love being part of that change.” 

A Day in the Life of a Senior Consultant 

Ann’s day-to-day work is very project-focused. “I like the opportunity to delve deep into specific programs,” she says. “Some months, I’ll handle 5 to 10 CanExport projects, becoming an expert in that space.” One thing Ann values is the balance her role provides. “It’s important for me to have breathing space between projects,” she notes. “I can focus intensely on one task and then take 20 minutes to reset before switching gears.” 

Ann also makes a point to integrate her community into her day. “In those moments of downtime, I go for a walk and remind myself of the bigger picture—why I do this work and how it impacts my community,” she adds. 

Is your business considering stepping beyond its borders and diving into expansion in 2025? Get in touch with us today to learn about the CanExport SMEs program and how your business can cover its costs of international expansion. 

Overcoming Challenges 

Working in the grants industry comes with its share of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles for Ann is managing the deep immersion required for each project. “Sometimes, you get so deeply involved in a client’s needs or a program’s intricacies that it can bleed into other things,” she explains. To combat this, Ann relies on meticulous note-taking. “I’m a writer first and foremost, so I keep thorough notes that I can refer back to,” she says. “When we bring on new hires, I often show them my system. Good note-taking and asking the right questions are key to overcoming challenges.” 

Embracing New Opportunities with Ryan 

Since joining our team, Ann has embraced the changes and growth brought by the company’s acquisition. “One of the most exciting things about joining Ryan is the comprehensive range of services we can now offer our clients,” she says. “We’ve gained access to resources like tax credits, scientific research and experimental development (SR&ED) support, and other funding expertise, allowing us to provide even more value.” 

Ann has also embraced our company’s flexible work policy, which emphasizes work-life success. “It empowers me to have both a fulfilling career and a family life, and that balance is so important,” she explains. “I wouldn’t be as happy in my role without that level of trust and flexibility.” 

Looking to the Future 

Looking ahead, Ann sees plenty of opportunity for growth within the grants industry. “I really enjoy the writing side of things, and I’d love to take on more mentorship roles, helping new hires grow into their roles,” she says. Ann also foresees exciting changes in the industry, especially in areas like clean technology and infrastructure. “Canada is evolving, and the government will need to support new types of businesses in innovative ways,” she predicts. Ann is particularly curious to see how the government of Canada will support more businesses and the economy in rolling out a solid ecosystem for electric vehicles.  

Outside of Work 

Outside of her work, Ann enjoys more introverted hobbies. She’s an avid reader and loves crafting, knitting, and crocheting. She also plays on a slow-pitch team. Her favorite book is Anne of Green Gables. As for authors, she’s a fan of Mercedes Lackey, a pioneer in including diverse characters in her fantasy worlds. “It’s exciting to see the world beyond the one we live in, and it’s great to see that reflected in writing,” she shares. 

Ann’s commitment to her clients, her passion for impactful projects, and her dedication to lifelong learning make her an invaluable member of our team. Interested in learning how Ann and the rest of our team can help your business thrive? Contact us today to explore the possibilities!