Ernest Payne is a seasoned leader in capital development and grant strategy, holding a Bachelor of Science from the University of Memphis and an MBA from Lake Forest Graduate School of Management. He concluded his career as Senior Manager of Capital Programming and Development at the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), where he helped advance over $1 billion in major transit projects, including the Red, Brown, Blue, and Green Line rehabilitations.

Following his tenure at the CTA, Ernest founded Payne’s Grant Consulting Services, Inc., where he continues to guide organizations in securing and managing funding. A Vietnam veteran and dedicated community advocate, he remains committed to service, bringing leadership, experience, and a passion for collective impact to every initiative he supports.