Chad joined the BioNexus KC team in 2023 as the Director of Strategic Partnerships and will be responsible for creating and executing a successful development and fundraising strategy. Grittman aims to serve and strengthen the life sciences ecosystem in the Kansas City region by identifying, cultivating, and nurturing relationships with prospective and current stakeholders, partners, sponsors, donors, and grantors.

Prior to joining BioNexus KC, Chad was the Regional Philanthropy Officer of the American Red Cross in Greater Kansas City, focusing on individuals and family foundations. While there, he managed a portfolio of 170 of the area's most philanthropic and influential families dedicated to humanitarianism. In addition, he helped lead and grow the Kansas City Chapter of the Tiffany Circle, a society of philanthropic women of the Red Cross. Chad has been involved in philanthropy for years, running a free consulting organization where he trains churches and non-profits in better fundraising practices, leading him across the country and the world.

At the start of his career, Chad was a Christian minister and worked overseas in Bratislava, Slovakia. In his work and personal passions, he has immersed himself in cross-cultural experiences and relationships that have led him to 57 countries. He has deep roots in the area as the 6th generation of a family who founded his nearby hometown, Oak Grove. Chad earned a Bachelor of Social Work from Missouri State University and is currently pursuing a Master of Public Policy.

In the community, Chad is a member of the Greater Kansas City Association of Fundraising Professionals. He serves on the Philanthropy Committee of the American Red Cross, volunteers with Angel Flight Central, and sits on the Board of Directors of Della Lamb Community Services. Chad was appointed by Mayor Quinton Lucas to serve a 4 year term as a Commissioner on the Enhanced Enterprise Zone Board, Chapter 353 Advisory Board, and is the Chairman of the Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority of the Economic Development Corporation. As a passionate urbanist, Chad is on the Leadership of Urban Lab KC and a member of Strong Towns.