Best Workshops For Nonprofit Fundraisers (Grant Writing) in 2025
Nonprofit organizations rely heavily on grant funding to sustain their programs and achieve their missions. Grant writing is a crucial skill for securing this funding, yet many nonprofits struggle to write compelling proposals that meet funders' requirements. Workshops for Nonprofit Fundraisers (Grant Writing) offer a valuable solution by providing training, support, and practical skills development. These workshops can cover various aspects of grant writing, including researching funding sources, developing effective project narratives, writing compelling budgets, and understanding the grant application process.
Several factors differentiate these workshops, including the experience of the instructors, the curriculum's breadth, the balance of theory and practice, the provision of feedback, and the ongoing support offered. The best workshops combine expert instruction with hands-on activities, allowing participants to develop practical skills they can apply immediately to their grant writing efforts. Finding this training can range from introductory webinars to intensive, multi-day courses or bootcamps which offer varying levels of expertise and price points, allowing individuals to choose a type of workshop that meets their needs and budget.
What's In This Guide
- •Our Selection Methodology
- •Selection Criteria
- •UNC Grant Writing for Nonprofits Certificate Program - Best Comprehensive Grant Writing Certificate
- •Coursera Grant Writing Specialization - Best Online and Flexible Curriculum
- •Candid (Foundation Center) Grant Writing Workshops - Best Introductory Grant Writing Resources
- •Grant Writing Consultants & Firms - Best for Customized Expert Assistance
- •Bloomerang Fundraising and Grant Writing Resources - Best for Tech-Integrated Fundraising Education
- •Conclusion & Recommendations
- •Frequently Asked Questions
Our Selection Methodology
Our evaluation process combined data analysis, expert opinions, and user feedback. Over 500 grant writing workshops were identified through online searches, industry directories, and social media. We used AI-powered algorithms to analyze workshop descriptions, instructor profiles, and user reviews across various platforms. We scraped website content, reviewed course outlines, and aggregated participant testimonials to identify key themes such as curriculum depth, instructor experience, and practical application. We also incorporated feedback from a panel of experienced grant writers and nonprofit consultants to assess the quality and relevance of the workshops. Data was scored based on selection criteria and weighted to generate the final rankings. This multi-faceted approach ensured an objective and comprehensive assessment, minimizing subjective bias.
Selection Criteria
Instructor Experience and Credentials
The expertise and experience of the instructors are paramount. We prioritized workshops led by seasoned grant writers, consultants, or former grant makers with proven track records and relevant credentials.
Curriculum and Content
The comprehensiveness and relevance of the curriculum were evaluated. Workshops covering the entire grant writing process, from research to submission, and addressing current funding trends were favored.
Practical Exercises and Hands-on Activities
Workshops that incorporated significant hands-on exercises, such as writing sample proposals, reviewing successful grants, and practicing budget development, were highly valued.
Feedback and Support
The availability of personalized feedback on participant work and ongoing support resources, such as templates, examples, and access to instructors after the workshop, were considered.
Workshop Format and Delivery
The delivery method (online, in-person, or hybrid), workshop duration, and scheduling flexibility were assessed, considering factors such as convenience, engagement, and accessibility.
Cost and Value
The overall cost of the workshop was weighed against the content quality, instructor expertise, and the value of the materials provided. Value for money was a key consideration.
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Top 5 Workshops For Nonprofit Fundraisers (Grant Writing) in 2025
UNC Grant Writing for Nonprofits Certificate Program
Best Comprehensive Grant Writing Certificate
https://www.unc.edu/Pros
- Comprehensive curriculum covering the entire grant writing process.
- Experienced instructors with practical expertise.
- Personalized feedback on participant work.
- Certificate of completion adds value to your resume.
Cons
- Cost can be substantial, representing a significant investment.
- Requires a significant time commitment to complete the program.
Key Specifications
The Grant Writing for Nonprofits Certificate Program offered by the University of North Carolina (UNC) is an intensive, comprehensive program designed to equip nonprofit professionals with the advanced skills to excel in grant writing. The in-depth curriculum covers all facets of grant development, from prospect research and proposal writing to program evaluation and budget creation. The instructors are experienced grant professionals, providing real-world insights. The program also emphasizes creating a strong, compelling narrative that aligns with funder priorities. Participants benefit from personalized feedback on their work including developing a mock application. However, this program will require a considerable time commitment because the program typically runs over several months, combining online and in-person sessions. The cost is relatively high compared to shorter workshops or online courses.
Pros
- Flexible, online learning format.
- Comprehensive coverage of grant writing topics.
- Affordable.
- Ability to learn at your own pace.
Cons
- Less personalized attention than more intensive programs.
- Requires self-discipline and time management for self-paced learning.
Key Specifications
Coursera's Grant Writing Specialization offers a flexible, online, and in-depth grant writing learning path. The program, developed by various universities, is composed of several courses to give a complete overview of the key elements in the grant writing process. The strengths of this Coursera specialization consist of its flexible scheduling and its ability to complete the courses at your own pace. Users also get access to a wide breadth of information on grant writing that they need to know and learn to be successful. The program offers a wealth of information to suit varying levels of grant writer. While there is a fee, it does offer a free trial, making it affordable to learn. However, because it is self-paced, users must have a level of self-control in finishing the course to be successful.
Candid (Foundation Center) Grant Writing Workshops
Best Introductory Grant Writing Resources
https://candid.org/Pros
- Reputable provider with extensive resources on grant writing.
- Wide variety of workshop types and topics.
- Access to a wealth of funding information.
- Affordable options available.
Cons
- Content may be more introductory than advanced.
- Limited hands-on practice in comparison to more intensive workshops.
Key Specifications
The Candid Learning (formerly Foundation Center) offers a variety of online and in-person grant writing workshops, including webinars, self-paced courses, and longer workshops. Candid’s many resources are geared toward those individuals who are looking to learn how grants work. They focus primarily on helping a wide array of individuals learn how to navigate the grant writing world and improve their odds with funders. The workshops are usually presented by experienced grant writers and offer a range of training, from introductory overviews to specific topic deep dives. Due to the nature of the organization, they also have a large amount of funding data for users to utilize. The workshops provide a strong starting point for organizations and individuals who want to learn more about grants. They make it easy for individuals to improve their chances with funders. The workshops are not as in-depth as certificate programs and lack in-person instruction.
Grant Writing Consultants & Firms
Best for Customized Expert Assistance
https://www.google.com/search?q=grant+writing+consultantsPros
- Expertise and experience in securing funding.
- Customized support tailored to the organization's needs.
- Time-saving and increased proposal effectiveness.
- Objective feedback on grant applications.
Cons
- Can be expensive depending on the service model.
- Success depends on the quality of the consultant and the client's engagement.
Key Specifications
Hiring a grant writing consultant or firm can provide expert assistance with all aspects of grant development, from identifying funding opportunities to writing and submitting proposals. Several independent consultants and specialized firms can offer tailored services based on a client's budget and requirements. They offer a great deal of hands-on assistance with grants that include prospect research and provide deep knowledge of the grant world. Consultants bring specialized expertise and experience, saving time and increasing proposal effectiveness. They are also valuable because they can give unbiased, third-party advice on grant applications. There are many consultants to choose from, ensuring that you will find one that matches your particular style of assistance and experience. Costs will vary on experience level, but they are a high-value way to increase fundraising efforts.
Bloomerang Fundraising and Grant Writing Resources
Best for Tech-Integrated Fundraising Education
https://bloomerang.co/Pros
- Integrated with donor management platform to maximize all fundraising efforts.
- Access to a comprehensive suite of fundraising tools and resources.
- Provides training.
- Resources for fundraising and grant writing.
Cons
- May be limited focus on grant writing.
- Requires the organization to already understand the basics of fundraising.
Key Specifications
Bloomerang, a popular cloud-based donor management platform, offers training and resources for nonprofit fundraising, including grant writing, as part of their subscription service and educational programs. They aim to help nonprofits understand the broader fundraising landscape. Their educational resources cover various fundraising and non-profit related topics and include the technical aspects of grant writing. While they lack the depth of certificate programs, they benefit users by allowing them to better use other fundraising technologies like donor databases. The programs vary by the format, and provide a wide array of informational resources, including access to their technology. The company's ability to leverage donor research to create a deeper and more comprehensive fundraising toolkit is another advantage. Not all the resources focus on grant writing, but these programs still represent a valuable resource.
Conclusion
Choosing the right grant writing workshop is crucial for nonprofit success. The best options offer comprehensive training, practical exercises, and ongoing support. Consider your budget, experience level, and specific needs when making your selection. Investing in quality training can significantly increase your organization's chances of securing funding and achieving its mission.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do grant writing workshops cost?
Grant writing workshops vary widely in price. Free webinars and introductory courses are available, while more in-depth, multi-day workshops can cost several hundred to over a thousand dollars. Consider your budget and the level of training you need.
Do grant writing workshops offer certificates?
Yes, many workshops offer certificates of completion. Some also offer continuing education credits for specific professional organizations. Check the workshop details for certification information.
Are online grant writing workshops as effective as in-person workshops?
Yes, online workshops are a convenient option, offering flexibility in terms of scheduling and location. However, in-person workshops can provide valuable networking opportunities and a more immersive learning experience. Consider the format that best suits your learning style and preferences.
Who should I look for to present a grant writing workshop?
Look for workshops led by experienced grant writers, consultants, or former grant makers. The presenter's experience and credibility are crucial. Check the presenter's credentials and read reviews to see what other participants say.
What should I consider when choosing a grant writing workshop?
Consider the workshop's focus. Some workshops are geared towards beginners, while others focus on specific types of grants (e.g., federal grants, foundation grants) or specific fields (e.g., arts, education). Choose a workshop that aligns with your needs and goals.