Lea A. Strickland, MBA MA CMA CFM CBM GMC, founder/principal/CEO at F.O.C.U.S. Resources, serves as a consultant, author, seasoned business strategist, and financial expert with decades of experience. She advises small businesses in navigating the complexities of government funding, particularly in the SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) and STTR (Small Business Technology Transfer) programs. Known for her keen expertise in strategic financial planning, operational efficiency, and compliance systems, Lea works with entrepreneurs and startups to establish robust business practices and strong financial foundations that support sustainable growth.
Her consulting approach integrates a deep understanding of regulatory requirements and industry best practices. She ensures that businesses meet the strict guidelines of federal funding agencies and build robust systems for long-term operational success. With a strong focus on budgeting, cost allocation, and aligning business operations with funding needs, Lea commits to helping small businesses optimize their financial strategies, minimize risks, and maximize their chances of securing critical funding.
Lea’s insights have been instrumental for businesses seeking to scale through government grants and innovation programs. She guides clients from initial proposal development to successful implementation. Her practical, hands-on approach empowers businesses to build the internal infrastructure necessary for compliance and operational excellence. Clients are well-positioned for growth and success in competitive funding environments.
What our clients are saying!
“Lea really knows her subject. I can always count on solid advice from Lea.”
“Lea is a great authority on small business government grants and has helped me gain mastery of such topics as allowability, audits, and investment considerations. She has been a reliable and confident resource for my company.”
“Lea Strickland brings an incredible combination of knowledge, skill, and abilities as she leads us from a lack of knowledge to competence in business ownership. Her experience in industry and as a consultant, and her ability to identify and avoid problems are distilled into a gold mine of information.”
“Lea Strickland has been an invaluable resource for our small business. Lea took us step-by-step through bringing our accounting system and internal policies and procedures into compliance to meet DoD SBIR/STTR audit requirements. With her expertise and years of experience to fall back on, we are now confident we have the in-house skills necessary for day-to-day compliance related to government funding. We would 100% recommend her services to anyone looking for help with their government funding compliance system.”
“To state it plainly; Lea is a brilliant strategist and she stands out among the best and the brightest. Her knowledge of business is second to none. I not only have the good fortune of her association as a consultant; but over the years I have been moved many times by her loyalty and dedication to her clients even through most difficult times.She rates ten stars in the world of business, and as a great human being. This lady is all class.“
