Employee Spotlight: Eric Pini, Director, Client Services, Government Grants

Eric Pini brings a wealth of experience to his role as Director of Client Services for our Government Grants team, having previously worked in tax consulting before joining the grants industry. Initially involved in sales and property tax services, Eric realized that his true calling lay in the grants sector, where he could make a meaningful impact.  

“With grants, I work directly with small to medium-sized companies, and the difference it makes to their growth is tangible,” he shares.  

The satisfaction of seeing these businesses thrive, thanks to the funding he helps secure, drives Eric’s passion for his work at Ryan. 

Embracing New Horizons with Ryan 

Since Mentor Works’ acquisition by Ryan, Eric has been energized by the expanded resources and collaboration opportunities now available. “We’re no longer just a small team; we’re part of a global network,” he explains. The merger has allowed Eric to connect with experts across various fields, improving cross-functional teamwork and enhancing client support. He also values the increased flexibility offered by myRyan policies, which help him maintain a balanced work-life dynamic. Eric is excited about the growth potential and the opportunity to continue developing his skill set within such a supportive environment.  

Already having a background in our other services (sales tax and property tax), Eric feels confident he will be able to support his clients with grants and the extended services—becoming a one-stop shop for his clients’ business needs.  

A Passion for Helping Businesses Grow 

For Eric, one of the most fulfilling aspects of his role is seeing the direct impact of funding on clients’ growth. Recently, he worked with an agri-food client on multiple grant programs, helping them expand their operations to meet new contracts with major Canadian grocery chains. “It’s been amazing to watch their journey,” he says. “We’ve helped them secure hundreds of thousands of dollars in funding, enabling them to make critical investments and scale their business.” This hands-on involvement with clients, especially in transformative projects, fuels Eric’s commitment to the industry. 

Eric’s day is all about client engagement, from coordinating kickoff meetings to ensuring his clients are aligned with the best funding opportunities. The team-oriented environment is also a major motivator for him. “The support from my colleagues is incredible,” he shares. “Everyone is ready to help, which makes a huge difference.” This collaborative atmosphere keeps Eric focused and motivated, knowing he has a strong network to rely on. 

Navigating the Unique Challenges of Grants 

One of the biggest challenges Eric faces is managing the tight application windows for grant programs, which often have limited intake periods. This requires precise planning and timing to align client needs with available funding. Drawing from his background in sales tax consulting, Eric uses his skills in organization and foresight to anticipate opportunities and ensure his clients don’t miss out on valuable funding. 

It is crucial for businesses to apply for funding at the right time. Download our free guide on When to Apply for Funding to learn about the Canadian government funding landscape and when to submit your application.  

Looking to the Future of Grants 

Eric hopes to see increased accessibility in the grants landscape, particularly for smaller companies that might struggle to qualify under current eligibility criteria. “It’s often the companies that need funding the most who are least able to access it,” he notes. Bridging this gap is something Eric is passionate about, as he believes it could lead to even greater growth and innovation in Canada’s business landscape. 

Now as part of Ryan, Eric is able to support businesses of all sizes in achieving financial freedom. Not only can Eric now access a larger set of clients, but he has all the tools necessary to help solve each of their unique problems. 

Beyond the Office 

When he’s not assisting clients, Eric enjoys an active lifestyle, playing sports like soccer and golf, and spending time with his beloved dog, Hugo. Thanks to Ryan’s work-life balance policies, Eric can enjoy his personal time while staying dedicated to his professional goals. 

Eric’s journey reflects a commitment to helping businesses succeed and a drive to make government funding more accessible. If you’re ready to explore how grants can help your business grow, reach out to Eric and discover the difference expert guidance can make in your funding journey.