Thirty Years of Resolution, Strategy, And Advocacy

Austin Advising is a San Francisco-based consulting firm specializing in mediation, negotiation, and social justice-focused advising. Founded by Alex Austin — a Community Boards Certified Mediator and affiliate of California Lawyers for the Arts — the practice has been serving clients since 1995. We work with nonprofits, artists, businesses, and community organizations across the Bay Area, offering free initial consultations by appointment. Ready to find a path forward? See how we can help.

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Consulting

We provide strategic advising for businesses, nonprofits, and arts organizations facing complex decisions or structural change.

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Mediation

We guide structured, confidential conversations that address conflict, repair working relationships, and prevent legal escalation.

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Negotiation

We help our clients prepare for and conduct tough negotiations that balance power, clarify terms, and reflect stated values.

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How We Work

We begin with a free virtual consultation to understand your situation, clarify goals, and determine whether consultation, mediation, negotiation support, or a combination fits best. We then complete a structured intake that confirms roles, confidentiality, and logistics. Sessions are scheduled by appointment, with clear agendas and space for every voice. We close by summarizing agreements, outlining next steps, and, when helpful, planning follow up. Throughout, we center ethics, discretion, and the specific realities of your organization, community, or creative practice.

Alex Austin — Founder & Principal, Austin Advising

Alex Austin is the founder and principal of Austin Advising, a consulting firm based in San Francisco, California, established in 1995. Alex holds certification as a Community Boards Certified Mediator and is an affiliate of California Lawyers for the Arts. With 30 years of experience in mediation, negotiation, nonprofit advising, and social justice consulting, Alex serves clients across the Bay Area including nonprofits, artists, small businesses, and community organizations. Austin Advising offers in-person and virtual consultations by appointment, with free initial consultations available.

The Effort Behind Austin Advising

Alex Austin has spent three decades in the room where it matters — mediating disputes, advising nonprofits, advocating for artists, and building strategies rooted in equity. The approach is anything but off-the-shelf. Learn more about the experience, certifications, and values that have shaped one of San Francisco's most trusted consulting practices.

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Since 1995

Not a new practice finding its footing — we have three decades of navigating real conflicts, real negotiations, and real stakes.

Your Sector, Understood

We don't generalize. Nonprofits, artists, and justice-centered organizations get guidance built around how their worlds actually work.

Certified & Credentialed

Community Boards Certified Mediator. California Lawyers for the Arts affiliate. The credentials behind every recommendation we make.

Austin Advising

Guiding Your Journey With Expertise in Consultation, Mediation, and Negotiation