Carl Grant III

CEO & Bestselling Author

Carl Grant III is a pioneering force in professional services business development, boasting over 25 years of market-facing leadership that propelled elite firms to extraordinary heights. As Executive Vice President and Global Head of Business Development at Cooley LLP, one of the world's leading technology and life sciences law firms, he led a 17-person team that played a pivotal role in driving the firm's annual revenue from $310 million to over $2 billion—a staggering $1.7 billion increase over two decades. His strategic prowess extended to PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), where as the first business development hire in the DC Metro region, he orchestrated an impressive 33% market share growth in just two years by securing 85 new clients and forging key venture capital introductions. Earlier, at the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority, Carl doubled the number of venture capital funds operating in the county, cementing Northern Virginia's status as a tech hub. An Army veteran who rose to the rank of Major as an Airborne Infantry officer, Carl's discipline and service mindset permeated his career. He served on management teams of two VC-backed startups, including Eyecast, the first company to deliver video over the internet, and navigated high-stakes acquisitions like Gannett's $1.8 billion buyout of Multimedia, Inc. His entrepreneurial ventures continue today as CEO of Rainmakers Group and Chairman of Capital Raise (a SaaS platform connecting private capital ecosystems), Connexa Partners (outsourced business development), and Cyrulion, Inc. A founding board member of the Austin Venture Association, he maintains a network of over 15,000 CXOs, investors, and board members, earning his reputation as a 'global super connector.' Carl's personal transformation—from self-described atheist to devoted man of faith—fuels his bestselling book, *How to Live the Abundant Life* (perfect 5-star Amazon rating), which hit bestseller status in multiple categories. Drawing from a divine encounter in Panama during military service, where a supernatural wind marked his spiritual awakening, he now champions abundance beyond finances: mindset shifts, purposeful giving, faith integration in business, and family legacy as a father of five. Founder of workplace ministries like SXSW Sunday Service and the High Tech Prayer Breakfast-DC Metro, Carl bridges faith and entrepreneurship, mentoring thousands. With an MBA from Indiana University's Kelley School of Business and Harvard studies in private equity/venture capital, plus licenses as a private pilot and boater, he embodies holistic success—professional mastery, spiritual depth, and adventurous spirit—in Austin, Texas.

Key Insights from Carl Grant III

Led a team that contributed to $1.7B revenue growth at Cooley LLP over 20 years.

— Carl Grant III on Business Development

Doubled venture capital funds in Fairfax County in two years.

— Carl Grant III on Capital Attraction

From atheist to faith-driven leader after a supernatural wind in Panama.

— Carl Grant III on Spiritual Transformation

Super connector with 15,000+ CXO relationships across investors and CEOs.

— Carl Grant III on Networking

Notable Quotes from Carl Grant III

"Success isn’t just about the numbers—it’s about living a life of purpose and impact."

— Carl Grant III

"Work hard but rest."

— Carl Grant III

"Create an environment of abundance at home by fostering love, respect, and growth."

— Carl Grant III

Frequently Asked Questions about Carl Grant III

What is Carl Grant III's approach to business development?

Carl emphasizes being a trusted advisor and super connector, making high-impact introductions to investors, partners, and hires. At Cooley, he built databases of C-level execs, ran investor pitch events like Capital Call (raising $2.35B), and leveraged personal networks for revenue growth. He trains teams on strategic relationship-building, focusing on elite AM Law firms and Big Four strategies, always prioritizing client CEOs' needs. [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlgrant). [PRWeb](https://www.prweb.com/releases/carl-grant-iiis-new-book-how-to-live-the-abundant-life-hits-bestseller-status-and-earns-a-perfect-5-star-rating-on-amazon-302236195.html).

How did Carl achieve an abundant life?

Through faith, generosity, purpose, and mindset shifts. A pivotal moment was a divine wind during Army service in Panama, leading to his transformation. His book outlines natural laws for abundance at home, work, and community—fostering love, rest, giving, and service. As father of five, he balances family, fitness, aviation, and global bridge-building (East-West). Ministries like High Tech Prayer Breakfast reflect his servant leadership. [Barnes & Noble](https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/how-to-live-the-abundant-life-carl-grant-iii/1144565188). [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlgrant).

What companies does Carl lead today?

CEO of Rainmakers Group (business dev consulting), Chairman/CEO of Capital Raise (SaaS for private capital) and Cyrulion, Inc., Business Development Partner at Lumenci, Advisor at EX Squared. Previously at Fross Zelnick and Cooley/PwC. Founding board Austin Venture Association. [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlgrant).

What is Carl's military and education background?

U.S. Army Major (Airborne Infantry), Bronze Star recipient, public affairs roles. MBA Kelley School (Indiana Univ.), Harvard Private Equity/Venture Capital, Airborne School, Private Pilot. [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlgrant).

Carl Grant III — Areas of Expertise

  • Business Development
  • Networking & Super Connecting
  • Abundant Mindset
  • Faith in Business
  • Venture Capital Attraction
  • Professional Services Growth
  • Bestselling author; CEO with over 25 years of business development experience working with top-tier firms like PwC and Cooley LLP; abundance mindset expert

Carl Grant III — Show Appearances

  • Mornings in the Lab (2025-04-09)

Carl Grant III — Signal Brief

Signal Score: 6/100

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