Becoming a Better Grant Writer Workshop

Writing grants is a critical skill for nonprofit professionals, educators, researchers, and anyone tasked with securing funds for mission-driven projects. However, finding the right funders, understanding their priorities, and writing a compelling proposal is a time-consuming and often disheartening process. Whether you are new to grant writing or looking to refine your approach, this session will equip you with the tools, techniques, and confidence to write proposals that effectively communicate your organization’s vision and impact.

This workshop will provide participants with an overview of grant writing best practices, focusing on creating proposals that are clear, concise, and aligned with funders' priorities. Attendees will learn how to structure a winning grant proposal, use data and storytelling to strengthen their case, and avoid common pitfalls in the application process. The session will also explore how AI can serve as a valuable assistive tool, helping writers streamline tasks such as research, drafting, and editing while maintaining an authentic, human-centered tone.

By participating in this workshop, attendees will:

• Understand the key components of a successful grant proposal, including the executive summary, needs statement, goals and objectives, and budget narrative.
• Learn techniques for writing with clarity and impact, ensuring proposals are concise, well-organized, and funder-focused.
• Develop skills to align proposals with funders’ priorities and craft compelling narratives that showcase their organization’s mission and impact.

Participants will have the opportunity to discuss their grant writing goals and practice creating and refining elements of their potential proposals utilizing the experience of the instructor and collective knowledge in the room.

Presenter Cameron Kruger is the founder and lead consultant for That Nonprofit Guy, a consultancy focused on innovation, communication, and strategic management for nonprofits, schools, and social causes. Previously, Cam served in a range of nonprofit roles including President/CEO of the Duluth Children's Museum, Chair of the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Board, and in fundraising, human resources, and communications positions. Cam has raised millions of dollars for organizations and served in many foundation, state, and federal grant processes as a reviewer.

General questions? Contact us at learn@css.edu
Workshop questions? Contact Cameron Kruger, That Nonprofit Guy, cameron@thatnonprofitguy.com