Eric D. Wilkerson is a dynamic force in the world of social impact and nonprofit leadership, having made a significant impact since his relocation to Chicago in 2013. With a passion for driving purpose-driven change, Eric has held pivotal leadership roles in multiple non-profits, orchestrating over $20M in fundraising efforts that have directly benefited social justice, policy advocacy, education equity, and social service initiatives.

In 2021, Eric’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Wilkerson + Company (WICO), a cutting-edge consultancy firm focused on elevating the effectiveness of nonprofits through strategic vision and unwavering accountability. While collaborating across diverse sectors within the nonprofit landscape, WICO places a premium on supporting organizations that champion historically marginalized communities.

Eric’s journey towards impactful leadership began early, sparked by a profound sense of civic duty during his formative years. His involvement in the West Memphis Chamber of Commerce Junior Leadership Program ignited a lifelong commitment to community engagement. Over the years, Eric’s dedication to philanthropy and social change has garnered recognition, including a feature on the cover of Inviting Arkansas for his outstanding contributions to Habitat for Humanity and being named one of Crain’s Notable LGBTQ Executives in Chicago in 2020.

Drawing from his rich experience, Eric has served on the executive board of Habitat for Humanity of Central Arkansas and currently holds influential positions as a PAC board member for Equality Illinois, a Campaign Board member for the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund, and as an appointee to Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s LGBTQ+ Advisory Council in 2023.

Eric’s ethos is rooted in seizing the transformative potential of our current era, viewing challenges as opportunities for groundbreaking change and lasting impact. As he aptly puts it, “We are living in an unprecedented time with the potential for profound transformation. I understand the unique needs of our nonprofit community, and through WICO, I am dedicated to addressing those needs and driving meaningful change.”