Designed for professionals eager to secure funding and drive impact, this certification program provides a practical, results-driven approach to grant writing and strategic planning. Whether you’re seeking funds from private donors, foundations, or government agencies, this course will equip you with the expertise to craft compelling proposals and build a strong funding strategy tailored to nonprofit and public sector needs.
Whether you’re new to fundraising or looking to sharpen your skills, this course will provide the tools, confidence, and connections to help you turn your ideas into funded projects.
Program Highlights
Course Objectives
Weekly Plan
Week 1
OnlineSetting the Foundation - Strategic Vision & Direction
Participants explore Bryson’s Strategic Planning Model, conduct personal and team-based
visioning, and decide between building an authentic or scenario-based pitch. Emphasis on
mission, values, and setting a north star.
Week 2
OnlineUnderstanding the Landscape - SWOT & Stakeholders
Participants conduct situational analysis through SWOT and stakeholder mapping to identify
key strengths, challenges, and allies. These tools build the groundwork for a strong problem statement.
Week 3
OnlineFrom Insight to Action - Goals & Strategy
Participants turn insights into clear goals, SMART objectives, and actionable strategies.
Participants begin thinking in terms of funder logic and long-term outcomes.
Week 4
OnlineWriting the Narrative - Problem & Project Overview
Participants learn how to draft compelling needs statements and project summaries. Emphasis
is placed on clarity, urgency, and connecting community need to program design.
Week 5
OnlineBuilding the Proposal - Methods, Outcomes & Evaluation
Participants write methods and evaluation sections, develop a basic logic model, and learn
how to align their outcomes with funder goals.
Week 6
OnlineFinalizing the Proposal - Budgeting & Storytelling
Participants finalize their proposals and create budgets. They begin preparing and rehearsing
for their final pitches. Focus on persuasive storytelling and connecting with funders.
Week 7
Hybrid - Onsite & OnlinePitch Competition & Networking Event
Participants deliver 3–4 minute project pitches to a panel of judges. Includes prizes, feedback, celebration, and networking.