3 REQUEST: How to write winning grant proposals that stick using storytelling elements
In this phase you learn about the key ingredients of a winning proposal: a compact, concise, and compelling application that will convince the funder. In addition to practicing proposal-writing skills, you will gain expertise in incorporating storytelling to strengthen your narrative.
Finally, we step into the shoes of the evaluators – mainly foundation program staff – and explore the main do’s and don’ts.
We also look at the use of AI during this stage.
Training
The training lasts 2.5 hours and is delivered via Zoom in a group setting. You learn how to write grant proposals that are compact, clear, and compelling – proposals that stick out from the rest. We explore how storytelling techniques, such as hooks, quotes, and engaging narratives, can make your proposal more memorable.
You also get hands-on guidance on using Canva to create appealing visuals for your problem statement, solution, impact, or budget. In addition, we show you how to leverage AI tools to work more efficiently, understand how donors view AI, and explore useful grant-writing software.
Finally, you step into the evaluator’s shoes to identify common pitfalls, learn how to avoid them, and understand how foundations assess proposals.
Coaching
The third phase REQUEST includes the following coaching sessions:
Proposal analysis:
We conduct a meta-analysis of your existing grant proposals to identify patterns, strengths, and areas for improvement. You can use it to enhance future proposals and increase your funding success.
New proposal:
We review a new concept note or proposal you are preparing for a specific donor. You can use it to strengthen your submission and improve your chances of success.
Tailored to your individual needs
All coaching sessions are delivered in a 1:1 setting exclusively for your organisation.
We develop concrete outputs that you can apply immediately.
Why REQUEST matters so much…
This phase is critical for you because the ability to submit strong grant proposals directly impacts your organisation’s capacity to secure funding and sustain your mission.
By learning to write proposals that are compact, clear, and compelling, your organisation can stand out in a competitive funding environment and clearly communicate the value and impact of your work. Including visuals and storytelling elements gives you a comparative advantage.
Additionally, understanding the evaluation process and the perspective of the evaluator greatly increases your chances of delivering a proposal that aligns with funders’ expectations and meets their criteria for success.
What others say about this phase…
This was one of my favorite sessions. I appreciate the tips shared with us that make our proposals stand out. We underestimate the tiniest details, but they are indeed very significant.
I learn a lot on very concrete questions such as catching donor attention with a proposal. It was interesting also to hear participants own experience and read examples of application content.