Join us for an intensive and practical workshop designed for nonprofit organizations. This session will equip you with the essential skills and strategies to craft compelling grant proposals that attract funding and support your organization’s mission.
Workshop Objectives:
Understanding the Grant Writing Process:
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Learn the key components of a successful grant proposal.
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Understand the grant application cycle from research to submission.
Crafting Compelling Proposals:
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Discover how to articulate your organization’s mission, vision, and programs effectively.
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Learn techniques for writing clear, persuasive narratives that align with funder’s priorities.
Researching & Identifying Funding Opportunities:
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Gain insights into identifying the right funding sources for your organization.
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Explore various databases and tools to find grant opportunities that fit your mission and needs.
Building Relationships with Funders:
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Learn strategies for developing and maintaining strong relationships with grantmakers.
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Understand the importance of follow-up and reporting in fostering ongoing support.
Workshop Highlights:
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Expert Facilitation: Led by experienced grant writers and fundraisers from Pillar Nonprofit Network, with a proven track record in securing funding for nonprofit initiatives.
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Interactive Sessions: Engage in hands-on activities, group discussions, and peer reviews to practice and refine your grant writing skills.
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Resource Toolkit: Receive a comprehensive toolkit and grant writing templates, sample proposals, and a list of funding resources to support your grant writing efforts.
Who Should Attend:
Executive Directors, senior managers, and development officers of nonprofit organizations. Leaders committed to enhancing their grant writing skills to secure funding for their causes.
Your Presentors
Melanie Riley
Melanie Riley is a seasoned development leader with more than 25 years of experience driving donor-centered strategies and securing over $30 million in revenue for impactful organizations. Her career spans the local, regional, provincial, and national nonprofit landscape, with past roles at the YMCA of Southwestern Ontario, Kids Help Phone, Rotman School of Management (UofT), Toronto Botanical Garden, Ovarian Cancer Canada, and Girl Guides of Canada.
A proud London native, Melanie returned to Southwestern Ontario nine years ago to be closer to family and give back to the community that shaped her. For the past three years, she has served as Vice President at Pillar Nonprofit Network, where she leads resource development and membership strategies to strengthen the nonprofit sector across the region.
Melanie is known for her strategic thinking, collaborative leadership, and deep commitment to community. She holds a B.A. from Western University and has contributed to the sector through board and committee work with both the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and the Canadian Association of Gift Planners (CAGP). She is also a founding board member of the AFP London & Region Chapter.
Outside of work, Melanie is an active volunteer in her son’s sports and scouting life - serving as a Team Manager for his baseball and hockey teams and as a Scouter with the 1st Mount Brydges Scouting Group.
Shelby Weaver
