Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Grant Writing Simplified
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 152: Grant Writing Quick Tip: Ask Different Questions by Teresa Huff | 09 Apr 2024 | 00:03:57 | |
In this shorter, experimental format episode of Grant Writing Simplified, Teresa shares insights on the importance of asking different questions to navigate challenges in the nonprofit sector. Drawing from her experiences leading workshops and serving as a sounding board for nonprofit leaders, Teresa encourages listeners to step back from their frustrations and conventional problem-solving approaches. She emphasizes the value of exploring problems more deeply and considering alternatives to the status quo, without necessarily seeking immediate solutions. Teresa challenges you to apply this approach in your team discussions and collaborative efforts, suggesting that asking the right questions can unlock new paths forward. She also references her TEDx talk for further exploration of this topic and teases future interviews and resources aimed at aiding nonprofit strategies and grant writing careers. 00:00 What do you think of this format? 00:21 Preparing for a Nonprofit Workshop: Insights and Challenges 01:01 The Power of Asking Different Questions 02:11 A Challenge to Think Differently 02:40 TEDx Talk and Upcoming Resources 03:17 Encouragement and Closing Thoughts Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing Take the Quiz: https://teresahuff.com/share-quiz/ Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: | |||
| 151: Empowering Nonprofits: The Fun Side of Grant Writing by Teresa Huff | 02 Apr 2024 | 00:28:46 | |
In this episode, I'm doing something a little different. I was recently invited to be a podcast guest on the Marketer of the Day podcast by Robert Plank and I was happy to do that. It was such a fun conversation. He asked such really good questions that I thought, why not share it here with you as well! We talk about grant writing, nonprofit strategies, and making a lasting impact in communities through grant opportunities. We also address how important it is to build solid relationships with grantmakers to achieve success. I think you're going to love this episode!
On this episode: Introduction Flipping the Script Diving Deep into Grant Writing The Art of Grant Writing: Making an Impact Success Stories and Strategies in Nonprofit Funding The Process and Strategy Behind Effective Grant Writing Expanding Your Grant Writing Skills and Network Final Thoughts and How to ConnectConnect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing Take the Quiz: https://teresahuff.com/share-quiz/ Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: | |||
| 142: Streamline Systems for Nonprofit Success - by Teresa Huff | 25 Jul 2023 | 00:20:41 | |
Join me on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip Streamlining Systems for Nonprofit Success Can you believe we’re already nearing the end of summer? As we charge ahead into the second half of 2023, now is a great time to pause and evaluate whether your nonprofit's systems are working optimally for you. A while back, we talked about my favorite tech tools and the importance of systems for grant strategy. With the development of AI and emerging technology, it’s more important than ever to understand the strategy behind your systems so you can use them most effectively. Today, let's dive deeper into other critical systems to consider as a nonprofit. If you feel your organization could use some fine-tuning in these areas, no worries! Reach out anytime to schedule an advisory session - we can shore things up to end the year strong and kick off 2024 organized and ready. For a comprehensive guide to crafting effective systems, be sure to check out my Fast Track to Grant Writer VIP Program. Key Systems for Nonprofit Success Over the years, I’ve used many different systems to streamline my grant writing business. Even though I now focus on coaching and strategy, having robust systems in place remains crucial.
Are Your Systems Serving You? While well-designed systems are invaluable, let's keep it real - we all have off days! The key is not getting stuck in reactionary mode and knowing which systems are truly mission-critical. Can Automating Help Your Nonprofit Work? Look for signs like:
This indicates it may be time to optimize your systems! Identifying areas to automate can free up time and energy for your most important work. The time invested now will pay dividends as we progress through 2023 and beyond. Reach out any time to strategize streamlining systems tailored for your nonprofit's needs. Here's to a smooth and successful second half of the year! To read today's full episode: Streamline Systems for Nonprofit Success
What is one system or workflow you can evaluate this month to help streamline your nonprofit's operations? I’d love to hear about your organization, so shoot me an email!
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: | |||
| 46: Part 4 - Where Do I Start as a Grant Writer? [Grant Writer FAST Focus Power Series] | 25 Jun 2021 | 00:16:31 | |
Download the Grant Writer FAST Focus Workbook at www.teresahuff.com/fastfocus. Grant Writer FAST Focus Welcome back to this special Podcast Power Series, Grant Writer FAST Focus. This week I'm going to help you develop the confidence and clarity you need to start your grant writing career. So far in this series, we've talked about:
Now in Part 4 we're going to tie up the loose ends and bring it all together so you can develop a plan for your grant writing career. How Can I Start as a Grant Writer?We’ve gone through all those steps, so today we’re going to talk about the #1 question I hear from grant writers. That is, “Where do I start?” Today I'll share some of the struggles and mistakes I've made along the way, and how I've learned from those. Turns out those valuable lessons are now helping other grant writers in a big way!You don’t need to be nervous, struggling, or not sure where to start. You most likely have a lot more skills than you realize already, Take that inventory and then figure out the shortest distance from point A to point B to become a grant writer. Make sure you’ve listened to all the episodes in this FAST Focus series and DO the homework. If you still need help, then get on the Fast Track so I can help you dig deep and get really clear on this. F.A.S.T. Track to Grant Writer:How do you know if this is for you?
This is the most cost-effective way to work with me. You’re getting high level, intensive advice customized to your situation. We work on both the technical grant writing skills and the business/career building. Start with what you know and go from there. Figure out the shortest distance from Point A to Point B.But to do that, you need to do 4 things F.A.S.T. (and by the way, these are the 4 phases we cover in Fast Track to Grant Writer):
Those are the steps most new grant writers miss. And it’s the support I wish I’d had as a new grant writer. Challenge for Grant WritersI want to leave you with some important challenge questions today:
“Are you going to do the work of hiding or are you willing to show up and do the work of art?” - Emily P. Freeman, A Million Little Ways Are You Ready to Move F.A.S.T.?The Fast Track to Grant Writer group program is OPEN! I would be honored to serve you when you're ready to step up your grant writing career. Listen in to the full episode for today's lesson and homework assignment. Then download the free workbook at www.teresahuff.com/fastfocus and let's get you moving forward! Other Episodes Mentioned:
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip
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| 45: Part 3 - How Do I Become a Grant Writer? [Grant Writer FAST Focus Power Series] | 24 Jun 2021 | 00:13:21 | |
Download the Grant Writer FAST Focus Workbook at www.teresahuff.com/fastfocus. Can I Really Be a Grant Writer? Welcome back to this special Podcast Power Series, Grant Writer FAST Focus. This week I'm going to help you develop the confidence and clarity you need to start your grant writing career. F.A.S.T. Track to Grant Writing: Start with what you know and go from there. Figure out the shortest distance from Point A to Point B. Listen in as I give you the F.A.S.T. steps to follow so you can learn how to become a grant writer. You've got this, my friend! Are You Ready to Move F.A.S.T.?The Fast Track to Grant Writer group program is OPEN! I would be honored to serve you over there if you're ready to step up your grant writing career. Listen in to the full episode for today's lesson and homework assignment. Then download the free workbook at www.teresahuff.com/fastfocus and let's get you moving forward! Other Episodes Mentioned:
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip
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| 44: Part 2 - Who Am I to Be a Grant Writer? [Grant Writer FAST Focus Power Series] | 23 Jun 2021 | 00:12:11 | |
Download the Grant Writer FAST Focus Workbook at www.teresahuff.com/fastfocus. Who Am I to Be a Grant Writer? Welcome back to this special Podcast Power Series, Grant Writer FAST Focus. This week I'm going to help you develop the confidence and clarity you need to start your grant writing career. Should You Try Grant Writing? Many new grant writers are paralyzed by the question, “Where do I start?” Even if they have some nonprofit experience, they still battle imposter syndrome. However, I talk to so many talented people with great experience who are passionate about their nonprofit work. /some have even written grants before – and they still don’t think they have what it takes to be a grant writer. They think, “Who would want to work with me? Should I just work for free to get some experience? What do I have to offer a nonprofit?” Let's Change the ScriptI want to challenge you to shift your mindset around this. You probably already have a lot of valuable skills that can really help your community. You have some God-given abilities that make you unique. You need to show up with those. But until you realize that and get out of your own way, you won’t be able to use them effectively. Let’s change that. The world needs you out there making a difference. The Fast Track to Grant Writer group program and my 1:1 coaching go deep into this, and this is exactly what I help my clients with. I created this free power series for you on the podcast to help you get started and, more than anything, believe that it IS possible for you and to see how you can start to put those pieces together. Hang with me this week, because over the next 4 days we’re going to talk about the mindset shifts AND practical strategies you need to believe that you can be a good grant writer. How Is This Different?Lots of programs tell you how to write a grant. Lots of programs tell you how to set up a business. That’s where people get stuck, because most programs don’t teach you how to write the grant AND set up your grant writing career for success. That’s how it’s different when we work together, and that’s exactly what we do inside the Fast Track to Grant Writer. Fast Track Alum Lisa said, "I appreciate the ways you are showing us we can help non-profits. There are many nuggets we can incorporate into consulting that I hadn't previously considered." My Challenge to YouIf you’re struggling with the question of, "Who am I to be a grant writer?" I want you to flip the script and instead ask, “Who am I NOT to be a grant writer?” Todd Henry, host of The Accidental Creative Podcast, said, “The key is to push forward, not allow yourself to get stuck, so your body of work reflects your best attributes, not your biggest fears.” Grant Writer Power SeriesBe on the lookout this week, because every day for 4 days in a row a new episode in this power series is going to drop. These episodes are short because I don’t want you to get caught up in the weeds of self-doubt. I’m calling it a power series for a reason - instead of overwhelming you with a bunch of information, I want you to focus on one powerful action step each day. Listen in to the full episode for today's lesson and homework assignment. Then download the workbook at www.teresahuff.com/fastfocus and let's get you moving forward! Other Episodes Mentioned:
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip
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| 43: Part 1 - Do I Have What It Takes? [Grant Writer FAST Focus Power Series] | 22 Jun 2021 | 00:10:16 | |
Download the Grant Writer FAST Focus Workbook at www.teresahuff.com/fastfocus. Could I Be a Grant Writer? I’m excited to welcome you to this special Podcast Power Series, Grant Writer FAST Focus. This week I'm going to help you develop the confidence and clarity you need to start your grant writing career. Why Are We Talking About Grant Writer Mindset? I see so many people paralyzed by doubt and holding back, when deep down they really want to make a difference in their community. I'm going to talk through some things that I keep hearing over and over from prospective grant writers and from such competent people. It's worth taking a minute to stop and talk this through together. People are asking me, “Do I even have what it takes? Could I be a grant writer? I don't know if I have the skills that I need.” I'm going to challenge that. And I want you to stop and think. The Fast Track to Grant Writer group program and my 1:1 coaching go deep into this, and this is exactly what I help my clients with. I created this free power series for you on the podcast to help you get started and, more than anything, believe that it IS possible for you and to see how you can start to put those pieces together. Hang with me this week, because over the next 4 days we’re going to talk about the mindset shifts AND practical strategies you need to believe that you can be a good grant writer. Grant Writer Power SeriesBe on the lookout this week, because every day for the rest of the week a new episode in this power series is going to drop. These episodes are short because I don’t want you to get caught up in the weeds of self-doubt. I’m calling it a power series for a reason - instead of overwhelming you with a bunch of information, I want you to focus on one powerful action step each day. Listen in to the full episode for today's lesson and homework assignment. Then download the workbook and let's get you moving forward! Other Episodes Mentioned:
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip | |||
| 42: Grant Writing Q&A: How Much Detail Is Enough in a Grant Application? | 16 Jun 2021 | 00:07:01 | |
Sign up for Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip Do I Need a Lot of Detail in a Grant Application? Today I want to share a great question I received recently from a new grant writer: How do you know what is sufficient detail in a grant application? There could always be more to write about your program. Glad you asked! In this episode I'll talk through three things you need to consider when adding detail to your grant application:
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip | |||
| 41: Serving Others Through a Ministry-Based Business: Interview with Kari Bartkus, Love Does That | 08 Jun 2021 | 00:27:16 | |
Sign up for Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip ----- Starting a Business or a Nonprofit Today I'm talking with my good friend and fellow entrepreneur Kari Bartkus of Love Does That. She has a unique ministry-based business and such a heart for serving and encouraging others. After weighing the options of whether to start a business or a nonprofit, Kari decided that a ministry-based business was the right path for her. Kari's Journey to a Ministry-Based BusinessKari and I talk about several aspects of her ministry-based business journey:
Listen and be blessed! Connect with Kari Bartkus and Love Does That:Seeing far too many people go through hardship alone, Kari Bartkus became determined to show up and be present when those around her were hurting. Through her work at Love Does That, she equips others to do the same, providing practical tips and prayerfully-made gifts that serve as tangible expressions of care. Knowing that encouragement has to come from a place of abiding with Jesus, she also offers creative Bible studies and workshops that invite women to stay close to Him so they can be prepared to be the hands and feet of Jesus to those around them. Follow Kari and Learn More:
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip | |||
| 40: Should You Make the Move to Be a Grant Writing Consultant? | 01 Jun 2021 | 00:12:43 | |
Should you make the move to be a grant writing consultant? Sign up for Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip Join me today as I talk through seven questions to consider before becoming a grant writing consultant. Related Episodes:
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip | |||
| 39: Running a Business AND a Nonprofit: How a Real Estate Company Is Making an Impact - Interview with Gregg Cohen, JWB Real Estate Capital | 26 May 2021 | 00:37:04 | |
Ready to grow your nonprofit career so you can change the world? The Fast Track to Grant Writer is opening again. Get on the list at www.teresahuff.com/vip. Making a Difference in Business AND Nonprofit Work Gregg Cohen, Co-Founder of JWB Real Estate Capital in Jacksonville, FL, shares how his team runs a successful real estate investment business AND an incredible nonprofit. Since Gregg was a writing client of mine, I've had the privilege of seeing behind the scenes into their JWB Cares nonprofit work. That's why I knew he would be an amazing person to interview for the show. His team's energy for making a difference in their community is contagious. They've done some incredible work in Jacksonville. The JWB Cares' biggest projects so far include building and giving away three homes to U.S. military veterans! They've joined forces with many other community partners to pull it off. Their own JWB team of 80+ employees also rolled up their sleeves to get their hands dirty - literally - to help with the homes. Listen in to hear how this team is creating a powerful company culture and making a big impact. You'll walk away with inspiration for your own work. About Gregg Cohen and JWB Real Estate: As a founding partner of JWB Real Estate Companies, Gregg Cohen has seen the company grow from humble beginnings to serving over 1,200 clients worldwide with total assets under management of over $450 million. JWB helps clients diversify out of the stock market by building a fully managed rental property portfolio for the client. Cohen and his team have been featured in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Inc. Magazine, The Jacksonville Business Journal, and The Florida Times-Union. If you’d like to learn more about JWB’s investment strategy and how to deliver better returns for your rental property portfolio, please visit www.jwbrealestate.com or call their office at (904) 677-6777. Download the free JWB Passive Income Guide to learn how you can invest in real estate as easily as buying and managing your stock portfolio. Connect with Gregg: Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip | |||
| 38: Differences Between a Business and Nonprofit | 18 May 2021 | 00:13:40 | |
Need help with your next steps in grant writing or nonprofit work? www.teresahuff.com/nonprofits In this episode, we're comparing the differences between a business and a nonprofit. There's no perfect answer, but I'll give you some considerations to help you decide which is the best route for your situation. I also share a conversation with Jon Saunders, one of my Fast Track to Grant Writer students. We chat about some challenges and differences surrounding both business and nonprofit work. He has experience in both too, so we compare notes on things we've seen. Jon is the founder of Future Focus Global, a social impact organization. Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip | |||
| 37: How Do We Show Nonprofit Sustainability? On-Air Strategy Call with Ashley McMichael, Innovative Academy of Liberal Arts and Sciences | 11 May 2021 | 00:38:53 | |
Book your own strategy call for grant writers and nonprofits at www.teresahuff.com/nonprofits. Nonprofit Strategy Call I'm excited to share this on-air strategy call with you today! I'm working with the talented Ashley McMichael and coaching her through a grant application she's working on for her nonprofit. One of the questions asked about organizational sustainability. We talk through several ways she can demonstrate a solid sustainability plan for her nonprofit. Ashley also shares why she started a nonprofit, how she relates to clients, and the ways she's stepping up to lead by example. About Ashley McMichael: Ashley McMichael, B.S, M.S, Founder and Executive Director. The Innovative Academy of Liberal Arts & Sciences (IALAS) is a non-profit organization that opens the doors of opportunity for students and families that have been historically neglected. IALAS provides 2-generation STEAM (science, technology, entrepreneurship, arts, and mental health) and economic empowerment education initiative to address the ongoing disparity between Ward 7 and its surrounding wards. Find out more about our organization at www.theialas.org. Other Episodes Mentioned:
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip | |||
| 141: Mid-Year Goal Check: Assess Your Progress and Set Micro-Habits for Success - by Teresa Huff | 18 Jul 2023 | 00:12:38 | |
Join me on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip Mid-Year Check-In As I evaluate how to move forward for the rest of this year, I thought it would be a good time to share a few tips I’ve learned to help you reach your goals. Make Progress with Micro-Habits One method of goal-setting is to set up micro-habits. Rather than setting ourselves up for failure with a huge goal we likely won’t reach, where can we create micro-habits to set ourselves up for a nearly 100% win? Those have a surprisingly compounding effect. Micro-habits are small actions that help lead us towards our goals. They're easy to accomplish consistently and have a compounding effect. 7 Steps for Setting Micro-Habits for Success
The key is to set a trigger and stick to it, because it takes about a month for a behavior to become a routine. By setting deliberate micro-habits strategically aligned with our bigger picture, we can actively work towards becoming better versions of ourselves each day. And you don’t have to do it alone; I’m here to support you. Keep pushing forward; you've got this! To read today's full episode: Mid-Year Goal Check: Assess Your Progress and Set Micro-Habits for Success Challenge Question: What micro-habit will you commit to every day for the next 30 days? Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: | |||
| 36: 10 Steps to Create a Nonprofit Fundraising Plan [Fundraising Series #4] | 04 May 2021 | 00:13:38 | |
Need help with your nonprofit or grant writing strategy? www.teresahuff.com/nonprofits Welcome to Part 4 in our nonprofit fundraising series! Back in Episode 34, I gave you over 60 fundraising ideas and 9 questions you should be asking. Those were some great ideas. But if it left you scratching your head and wondering, “Where do we start?” then this list will help you take it a few steps further. You can’t possibly do ALL the fundraisers at once, nor should you try. That’s why it’s so important to first look at the bigger picture and then determine how you should move forward. Listen in for 10 steps you need to develop to have a stronger nonprofit fundraising plan. This is important knowledge for both nonprofits and aspiring grant writers to have in your toolbelt! Other Episodes Mentioned:
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip | |||
| 35: How Nonprofits Can Thrive in a Pandemic Economy: Interview with Margit Brazda Poirier, GPC [Fundraising Series #3] | 27 Apr 2021 | 00:38:28 | |
Need help getting started? Book your strategy session: www.teresahuff.com/strategy. Good news: Grant writers and nonprofits CAN thrive in a pandemic economy! In Part 3 of this Nonprofit Fundraising Series, grant expert Margit Brazda Poirier and I chat about:
Listen in as we share ways you can help nonprofits through the ups and downs of the post-2020 economy. In this episode, Margit and I talk about how we became grant writers (and how you can too!), the nonprofit trends we’ve seen since 2020, and several best practices for nonprofits. She has several tips for new grant writers looking to get started. Connect with Margit Brazda Porier:Margit Brazda Poirier, GPC, M.S., Owner and Founder of Grants4Good LLC® (grants4good.com), created the company in 2009 to help nonprofit organizations and businesses find and get grant funding. She is one of only 350 nationally-certified Grant Professionals and 1 of only 20 Approved Trainers in the U.S. on this topic. Margit and her team have written and received millions in grants for nonprofits and businesses – and she has the unique perspective of understanding both grant seeking and grant making, given her experience leading a prominent New York foundation. Her passion is being outdoors as much as possible and teaching others to secure grant funding through her online course, allaboutgrantwriting.com. Margit's Links:
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip | |||
| 34: 50 Nonprofit Fundraising Ideas and 9 Questions to Help You Choose [Fundraising Series #2] | 21 Apr 2021 | 00:26:52 | |
Need help? Book your strategy session: www.teresahuff.com/strategy. I hear so many nonprofits, especially new ones, trying to figure out how to raise funds. They think they can get grants, but then realize that won’t work for them until they’re a little more established. So what's a nonprofit to do? I've got you covered with this list of over 50 fundraising ideas. Hang on a minute though - before you jump in, there are 9 questions to consider first. Download the full list at www.teresahuff.com/34. If you aren't sure where to start, or you need help sorting out how to move forward, book a strategy call today at www.teresahuff.com/strategy. Other Episodes Mentioned:
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip
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| 33: How to Find First-Time Donors for Your Nonprofit: Interview with Jason Adkins, GPC [Fundraising Series #1] | 13 Apr 2021 | 00:34:53 | |
Need help? Here you go: www.teresahuff.com/strategy Getting first-time donor support is critical for new and small nonprofits. A lot of fundraising webinars and articles talk about donor retention, but how do you find donors in the first place? Today Jason Adkins, GPC shares advice on finding first-time donors on a tight budget. We cover some great tips such as:
and much more! You'll want to take notes on all the great tips in this episode. Resources Mentioned:
About Jason Adkins, GPC: Since 2008, Jason Adkins has raised over $120 million in grants and donations. His work has benefited nonprofits in the arts, education, and human services sectors. He earned the Grant Professional Certified (GPC) credential in 2017 and is a frequent trainer of grant writers and fundraisers. Jason created Funding Finders, a website of resources for nonprofit pros on a quest to raise money. Connect with Jason: Connect with Teresa Huff: Website:www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz:Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:www.teresahuff.com/vip | |||
| 32: What It Means to Change the World + Celebrating 6 Months of Podcasting and Book Roundup | 06 Apr 2021 | 00:14:15 | |
Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Take the quiz: www.teresahuff.com/quiz This week I'm celebrating 6 months of podcasting and 6,000 downloads in over 40 countries! Thank you all for your encouragement along this journey. I've met some incredible people from all over the world and I'm so thankful for you! You often hear me challenge you to change the world, but what does that mean really? Today I'm going through several ways we can change the world - and it starts right where we are. I'm also doing a 6 month book roundup of books mentioned so far on the show:
Other Episodes Mentioned:
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip | |||
| 31: Tips for Stepping Up Your Freelancing Success: Interview with Katherine Bright, Resume Writer and Career Coach [Mentoring Series #6] | 30 Mar 2021 | 00:41:47 | |
Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip Learn tips for freelancing success as I interview resume writer and career coach Katherine Bright. We talk about both the professional and personal side of freelancing:
This fun episode has all kinds of great tips for building your freelancing career! If you're ready to step up your grant writing career and fast, then check out Fast Track to Grant Writer. Resources mentioned in this episode:
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip | |||
| 30: Why I Became a Nonprofit Grant Writer: Creating a Ripple Effect [Mentoring Series #5] | 23 Mar 2021 | 00:25:11 | |
Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip I’ve had the honor of coaching several amazing nonprofit professionals in the Fast Track to Grant Writer VIP Program. It's been SO much fun helping them:
This 8 weeks can change the trajectory of your career. If you want to jump in, the Spring cohort closes THIS WEEK on March 25. Go to teresahuff.com/vip to sign up TODAY. If you’re listening to this after that, you can get on the waitlist for the next round. In this episode I'm sharing 3 reasons I became a grant writer in the first place:
Those reasons have evolved and grown over time as I've learned and gained more experience. I'll share more about those and how I've been able to have an amazing career working from home. It suits my personality and has allowed me to be at home with my kids while making an impact for good through nonprofit consulting. Today I’d also like you to meet another Fast Track to Grant Writer Alumni. Diego was already working part time as a grant writer for a small nonprofit. He’s also a graduate student and has been instrumental in helping his nonprofit set up an internship program. He’s getting some great experience, but he just wasn’t feeling very confident with his grant writing. We worked on that in the Fast Track program and talked about some really cool services he could offer to nonprofits based on his skill set and experience. It’s been so much fun having him in the Fast Track program. Everyone has brought such a unique perspective to the group, and it’s been great watching them interact and support each other. Listen in as Diego and I chat about how far he’s come over the past few weeks. Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip | |||
| 29: How to Get Started as a Grant Writer: Mindset and Strategy of Nonprofit Grant Writing + Takeaways from Fast Track to Grant Writer Program [Mentoring Series #4] | 16 Mar 2021 | 00:28:41 | |
Join the Fast Track to Grant Writer today: www.teresahuff.com/vip. This is the 4th episode in our Grant Writer Mentoring Series. We've shared so many good resources! Today we're talking about:
Other Episodes Mentioned:
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip | |||
| 28: 6 Ways to Learn Grant Writing Skills When You’re a Nonprofit Volunteer [Mentoring Series #3] | 09 Mar 2021 | 00:09:36 | |
Ready for the Fast Track to Grant Writer? www.teresahuff.com/vip Someone the other day asked how to get started with his grant writing career. He's volunteering at a nonprofit already and wants to step up into paid consulting work. I share 6 ways he can learn valuable grant writing skills in his nonprofit volunteer role. This topic is a sneak peek into my mentoring program Fast Track to Grant Writer. We learn plenty of the pro grant writing tips. As one VIP Fast Track student said, "Understanding the writing PRO tips was so good. Grant writing is nuanced and it helps to get some insider tips to help craft our writing.” We also go over exactly how to use those tips. Another Fast Track student said, “I appreciate all the ways you are showing us how we can help non-profits. There are many nuggets we can incorporate into consulting that I hadn't previously considered. Even if they've read the books and taken the courses, new grant writers STILL ask me questions like:
We cover ALL this and so much more in Fast Track to Grant Writer. Here’s the thing, friends - I'm not going to dump a bunch of cookie cutter grant writing lessons on you and say, “Now go write your grant!” Grants aren’t that way, and I don’t believe mentoring should be either. Sign up for the Fast Track to Grant Writer VIP Program at teresahuff.com/vip. We are having SO much fun! The doors are open until March 25 for the Spring 2021 cohort! Spots are limited though, so the sooner you sign up, the better. My friend, the world needs you out there making a difference. It’s time to get you on the Fast Track. Other Episodes Mentioned:
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip | |||
| 27: Keys to Success as a Nonprofit Leader: Interview with Dr. Johnathan Kraus, Founder and President of Love Never Fails International [Mentoring Series #2] | 02 Mar 2021 | 00:41:57 | |
Fast Track to Grant Writer spring enrollment is open. Sign up at www.teresahuff.com/vip. The next couple of episodes are on the importance of mentoring. I can’t tell you how many emails and messages I get from people wanting to learn grant writing - some who have even read the books and maybe even taken a course or two - and they’re still saying, “But where do I start?” I’m really excited to announce that the doors are officially open for the spring cohort of my VIP program, Fast Track to Grant Writer. This teaches you EXACTLY where to start and helps you polish up your online presence so you’re ready to roll. It’s challenging, it’s fast, and it’s fun. I keep these groups small so you can get lots of feedback from me throughout the program. Snag your spot for the spring cohort at teresahuff.com/vip. Speaking of mentors, I’ve also had some who helped me along the way of this podcasting journey. To quote one of those, who happens to be longtime pro podcaster Denise Griffitts, she says, “My podcast guests are my mentors.” I’ve found this to be true too, and especially with today’s guest just in our short interview together. About Dr. Johnathan Kraus, Love Never Fails International Johnathan is no stranger to challenges and did not get off to the best start in life. God was preparing him to live and work in the slums of India long before he had a clue. He began using drugs as a teenager which led him to drop out of school at 14, incarcerated at 15, and shot at 3 times by 16. At age 19 God radically saved him and by age 20 he was involved in children's ministry at his Church. Founder and President Dr. Johnathan Kraus is a Rutgers University graduate. He went on to earn his Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry at Trinity Seminary. He also earned his Ph.D in Counseling from Northwestern Seminary. ANSWERING THE CALL TO INDIA A former college professor and grade school teacher in the USA, Johnathan left the comfort of his life to answer the call of God in 2010. Through much prayer and wise counsel, God challenged Johnathan to start this organization, Love Never Fails International. When God called Johnathan to work with the children of the slums and streets of Mumbai, he knew this was God’s purpose in his life. He counted the cost and stepped out in faith not doubting God would provide. By our founder's little step of obedience trusting in God, LNFI is serving children from coast to coast today in India meeting children's needs physically, emotionally, and spiritually. The vision of this non profit is to empower children in India to overcome poverty. Learn More About Sponsoring a Child: https://loveneverfailsindia.com/ Connect with Dr. Johnathan Kraus: Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Other Episodes Mentioned: Episode 24 - How to Prevent Nonprofit Decision Fatigue Episode 26 - The Value of Unexpected Mentors Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip | |||
| 140: 9 Ways Food Network Challenges Mirror the Grant Writing Process - by Teresa Huff | 11 Jul 2023 | 00:15:02 | |
Join me on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip ROI for Foodies I enjoy watching some of the Food Network challenges because it’s fun to discover new baking ideas. While watching an episode last week, I noticed another reason the competitions are so much fun to watch. Grant writers and Food Network competitors go through a similar process in hopes of winning money. To win the prize, we all have to show the judges how they will get a Return on Investment - or in the case of nonprofits, a Return on Impact - by investing in us. In my TEDx talk, I explain how the key to writing a winning grant is to show the grant funder the Return on Impact (ROI) they’ll get. Funders aren’t looking for a return on investment like a for-profit business. Instead, grantmakers want to give grants to organizations they know will make an impact on the community, just like the judges on the Food Network want to invest in chefs that will contribute to the baking community and represent the Food Network well. 9 Ways Food Network Challenges are Like Grant Writing:
Many competitors skip the vision and strategy and go straight for writing the grant, but this should actually be the first thing both grant writers and Food Network competitors do. Without a vision and goal, there’s no direction, only chaos and confusion. Conclusion Your ROI isn’t just a formula for how to position the grant for funders. It’s also a vision for your organization. It’s your nonprofit’s lighthouse. The return you want to give your funders is the same as the impact you want to have on your community, it’s the reason you do this work every day; it’s what keeps you anchored so you don’t drift from your mission. To read today's full episode: 9 Ways Food Network Challenges Mirror the Grant Writing Process
Challenge Question: Which Food Network lesson do you need to implement or improve upon in your work? Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: | |||
| 26: The Value of Unexpected Mentors and 5 Ways to Find Them [Mentoring Series #1] | 23 Feb 2021 | 00:14:32 | |
Need a grant writing mentor? Here you go. Have you ever had a mentor in your life? Someone who has inspired you, and encouraged you, and really given you solid advice for that point in your journey? I’ve wrestled with this episode a bit because I can’t do it justice to explain how much my mentors have helped me along the way, whether they knew it or not. My hope is that it inspires you to look for wisdom and encouragement in unexpected places. Mentors & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
If you’re a grant writer or nonprofit leader needing a mentor, book a mentoring session at teresahuff.com/mentor and let's help you figure out your next right steps. We'll get you moving forward. If you know a nonprofit leader or a fellow grant writer who could benefit from this podcast, would you please forward it to them? That helps spread the word, and helps more grant writers and nonprofit leaders out there who are looking for guidance. We’re in this together, my friends! Connect with Teresa: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: | |||
| 25: Nonprofit Donor Relations and Marketing Tips: Interview with Jenni Hargrove, Host of the Nonprofit Jenni Show | 16 Feb 2021 | 00:49:39 | |
Book an advisory session with Teresa at www.teresahuff.com/strategy I’m so excited to share today’s guest with you, friends! I’m introducing you to my new nonprofit friend and fellow podcaster Jenni Hargrove. Jenni is a Charitable Marketing Coach and host of the podcast the "Nonprofit Jenni Show." Jenni supports nonprofit leaders looking to define a cohesive Marketing and Development Strategy. When it comes to nonprofit marketing best practices, she knows her stuff! We get into so many good topics like how to stay in touch with donors when you can’t meet in person, how to make social media less overwhelming, what content should be on your nonprofit website, and so much more. Get Jenni's free Social Media Cheat Sheet for Nonprofits at tinyurl.com/nonprofitjenni. Check out Jenni's podcast at nonprofitjenni.com/podcast or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Connect with Nonprofit Jenni: Website: nonprofitjenni.com Instagram: instagram.com/nonprofitjenni
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: | |||
| 24: How to Offset Decision Fatigue in Nonprofit Leaders: 5 Ways to Serve Well | 09 Feb 2021 | 00:12:47 | |
Book an advisory session at www.teresahuff.com/strategy Did you know that on an average day, we make about 35,000 decisions? That doesn't even account for the big circumstances! Nonprofit leaders and grant writers wear so many hats on any given day. If we're not careful, this can lead to decision fatigue, exhaustion, and burnout. Today I'm sharing 5 ways to help take care of yourself. Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Teresa: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: | |||
| 23: Nonprofit Spotlight: Changing Lives Through Service Dogs - Interview with Joel & Danea Key, Saber Life Foundation | 02 Feb 2021 | 00:26:19 | |
One thing I've enjoyed most about podcasting is getting to know more nonprofit leaders. I love seeing the work you’re doing in your communities and how you're making a difference. Today I’d like to introduce you to a unique nonprofit that is making such a difference in people's lives, and they're on a mission to educate others. I'm talking wtih Joel and Danea Key of Saber Life Foundation. They connect service dogs and people with disabilities, and they've partnered with a top-notch dog trainer to meet a huge need. The nonprofit stemmed from a long health journey with their own daughter. Getting her a service dog was the catalyst for starting Saber Life Foundation. Now they’re helping connect families and service dogs through the foundation. Listen and be blessed by their story! And then head over to www.saberlifefoundation.org and pick up a few dog treats for your furry friends. About Saber Life Foundation Saber Life Foundation is helping to provide a “Service Dog” to approved and accepted individuals with the Saber Life Foundation Project. Service Dogs training costs a MINIMUM of $18,500. Saber Life Foundation is helping to provide to all that are accepted into the Saber Life Foundation Project a trained Service Dog for $12,500.00. With everything we have learned in past and present from our own personal experiences, one fact has become clear above all else — The bond is all that matters. From that bond comes the willingness to work for success (though it feels like play) and the ability to handle any difficulties that might arise. Our long-term goal at Saber Life Foundation is to be able to not only help those in our home state of Missouri, but to expand our mission and organization nationwide. We aim to keep creating more and more positive life changing stories to share. Connect with Saber Life Foundation: data-sheets-hyperlink="http://www.saberlifefoundation.org">www.saberlifefoundation.org data-sheets-hyperlink="http://www.saberlifefoundation.org">https://www.facebook.com/Saberlifefoundation Connect with Teresa: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: | |||
| 22: Preparation for Grant Writing: 6 Things Your Nonprofit Should Have on Hand | 26 Jan 2021 | 00:07:45 | |
Download today's checklist at teresahuff.com/prep. The #1 question I’m asked, by grant writers and nonprofits alike, is, “Where do I start?” Grant writing is a big process that takes a while to learn and develop. However, today I’m going to tell you one simple place you can start no matter where you are in the process - even if you’ve never written a grant before. This is true for both nonprofits and grant writers. Most grants will ask for some of the same basic information - your mission, contact info, maybe even a list of your board members. By compiling all of this into an organized system, you’ll save yourself a lot of time running around collecting it. Your time can then be better spent on the application itself. Resources Mentioned:
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| 21: Tips for Successful Grant Writing & Federal Grant Project Management: Interview with Brandi VanAntwerp, CoxHealth Foundation Grants Administrator | 19 Jan 2021 | 00:32:18 | |
My friends, today’s episode is jam-packed with all kinds of grant writing goods. I’m chatting with the talented Brandi VanAntwerp, Grant Administrator of CoxHealth Foundation in Springfield, Missouri. Brandi provides grant writing and management for 6 hospitals, 83+ clinics, and Cox College. We cover all kinds of grant writing advice, including:
Even if you’ve been writing grants for a while, there are likely several gems here. And if you’re new to this grant writing world, hop over to www.teresahuff.com/quiz to see if you have what it takes to be a grant writer. Other Episode mentioned: Episode 14: Grant Writer Success Rates: Am I a Bad Grant Writer If I Don't Win the Grant? Connect with Brandi VanAntwerp on LinkedIn Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Follow Me on Social: | |||
| 20: How to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Grant | 12 Jan 2021 | 00:13:53 | |
Welcome to Episode 20! I talk with a lot of new grant writers and nonprofits that are really nervous about starting out with grants. Even if you’re new, you can do this. We ALL have to start somewhere! There are so many factors that go into a grant decision. Today I'll talk through those and then share one specific way you can increase your chances of winning the grant. Grant Funder Call Script Template: www.teresahuff.com/call Other Episodes Mentioned:
Connect with Teresa: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Follow Me on Social: | |||
| 19: Effective Strategies for Virtual Trainings & Meetings: Interview with Heather Burright, Skill Masters Market | 05 Jan 2021 | 00:31:44 | |
Everything seems to be moving online these days, including nonprofit meetings, training, and events. That's why I've invited Heather Burright of Skill Masters Market on the show. She's an expert on all things training, onboarding, and people strategies - the "fun side of HR," as she calls it. Listen in for some awesome tips to maximize your virtual training and get the best results for your organization. Click to download Heather's list for virtual engagement and reduce the awkward silence in your next meeting. About Heather Burright: Heather Burright, founder and CEO of Skill Masters Market, specializes in creating dynamic, people-centric solutions that drive business goals. Heather believes people excel when they know what is expected of them and they can show up authentically at work. To achieve this, Heather is dedicated to identifying the core competencies that are needed to see real results and to creating the learning strategies and solutions needed to develop those competencies. Leveraging 15 years of experience, Heather is a strong collaborator and ideal partner. She puts in the work to identify your needs, facilitates focus groups and/or interviews to understand the audience, and designs effective solutions whether in-person, virtual, or blended. Most recently, Heather managed a proprietary competency model for a national non-profit. Her role was to keep the model relevant, up-to-date, and easy-to-use, and she spent countless hours educating and influencing HR leaders across the United States so they knew how and why to implement the model throughout their talent life cycle, ultimately seeing a 94% adoption rate. In addition, Heather used the identified competencies to create staff development resources, ranging from assessments to stretch assignments and from coaching to formal training. Prior to the national non-profit, Heather led the way in innovative training design in industries, such as for-profit higher education and government agencies. Grounded in the belief that people are worthy of investment and that investing in your people makes them feel valued and gives them new skills and a new passion for their work, Heather looks at each project with the hard-won lessons of experience and the fresh eyes of the future. Heather believes that organizations are better when they empower their people to operate from their strongest capabilities, and she won’t stop until she’s helped people see, feel, and achieve their potential. Heather brings her expertise in instructional design, change management principles, and diversity, equity and inclusion efforts to each project, ensuring all voices are heard and valued, common language is established, and progress is made and sustained through learning and ongoing support. In her free time, Heather volunteers on the member development committee of a national sorority and serves as the co-chair of the parent teacher league at her oldest daughter’s school. She resides in Chicago with her husband, two daughters, and beloved dog.
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com | |||
| 18: Questions to Reflect & Plan + Free Download; Fast Track to Grant Writer Questions Answered | 29 Dec 2020 | 00:11:09 | |
Hi friends! As we're nearing the end of 2020, I want to take a few minutes to reflect on the past year and look ahead to next year. Whether you're a grant writer or a nonprofit leader, it's good to take some time away from technology to think through these. You can print out the quick download in the Freebie Vault at www.teresahuff.com/free. Questions to Reflect and Plan First, we're talking about six questions to help you think about where you've been and where you want to be:
Second, start tracking your wins. The free download has a grid with 12 boxes. Each month, write down a win. Even if the month was rough, find something to write down. This will help you build your momentum and see your progress. Finally, some of you have asked great questions about the Fast Track to Grant Writer VIP Program:
Fast Track to Grant Writer will help you either way. We'll learn strategies and advanced grant writing techniques that will help you in either role. Then in the career-based module, we'll look at your skill set, personality, and goals to help you map out a plan for whichever direction best fits you. Your action steps will be tailored to your situation. Enrollment for the pilot program closes December 31 at midnight Central time, so grab your spot today. We're going to have a blast. Let's get you on the fast track! Connect with Teresa Website: www.teresahuff.com/vip Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Follow Me on Social: | |||
| 17: Building a Legacy in Your Work and Life: Interview with Lindsey Johnson of the Legacy Entrepreneur Podcast | 22 Dec 2020 | 00:30:30 | |
Hi friends! The last few weeks we’ve talked about a lot of grant writing skills and nonprofit strategies. Today I want to shift gears a little bit and address more of the business and personal side of things. And, along those lines, If you are ready to invest in your future - and ultimately, leave a legacy for the community around you - then don’t wait to sign up for the pilot program, Fast Track to Grant Writer. We’ll cover in-depth grant writing strategies, work through business building decisions, and you’ll learn how to be the go-to grant writer in your community. The sooner you get started, the sooner you’ll be on your way to grant writing success. Sign up at teresahuff.com/vip. There are only a few days left - Enrollment closes New Year’s Eve at midnight Central time. Let’s get you on the fast track. As I’m recording this, we’re in the middle of the 2020 holiday season, and Christmas is right around the corner. That probably looks a little different for some of you this year; I know it does for my family. Even so, there’s so much to be thankful for. I’ve met some amazing people this year from all over the world. One of those is Lindsey Johnson, host of the Legacy Entrepreneur podcast. The first time I heard about her podcast, the idea of building a legacy in business really struck a chord with me. Grant writing is a way to make a bigger impact and change our world for the better, so the legacy idea really drives that home. At the same time, we’re not just grant writers. We have lives and people outside of our work, and we need to deliberately nurture those too. That’s why I invited Lindsey on the show. Listen in and be encouraged, my friend! You can do this! About Lindsey Johnson Lindsey Johnson is a wordsmith, encourager, Lake Superior girl, and wife and momma of 4. Female business owners hire Lindsey to help them form their foundational marketing messages, amplify their brand voice, and write compelling copy that clearly communicates who they are and who they serve so they can be confident that their messaging will do the legwork of attracting and converting their audience into clients for them. She’s also the host of the Legacy Entrepreneur podcast. Connect with Teresa Huff Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Follow Me on Social: | |||
| 139: 7 Reasons Working Collaboratively Helps Your Team Get More Done: Interview with Dr. Vince Lindenmeyer, Principal, Beacon 4sight Group | 04 Jul 2023 | 00:53:52 | |
Join me on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip The Link Between Competition and a Scarcity Mindset Competition is at the heart of every grant application, and a scarcity mindset can come from a position of competition. Many nonprofits work on a very limited budget, so the struggle with a scarcity mindset is common. After all, you wouldn’t be applying for grants if you already had the money, right? Nonprofits applying for the same grant are likely providing parallel services to a similar demographic, so the unfortunate reality is that organizations fighting for the same cause are competing with one another for funds and therefore, feeding the sector-wide scarcity mindset. In today’s podcast, retired Army Colonel Dr. Vincent Lindenmeyer helps us think creatively to work collaboratively with otherwise competing organizations so both teams can overcome the scarcity mindset and get more done. What Collaboration and Grant Funding Look Like Together During his 26 years in the US Army, Vince specialized in engineering, logistics management, and strategic studies, so he knows what creative collaboration looks like. He now applies his knowledge and experience to the nonprofit sector. As principal of Beacon 4sight Group, Vince helps women, veterans, minorities, persons with disabilities, and the formerly incarcerated start nonprofits and businesses to create economic growth for equality and justice. Many of Vince’s clients begin with little more than a dream, but he helps them get their nonprofit started in 90 days. He knows the power of creative collaboration to overcome scarcity. Like-minded organizations need to share resources, time, and talent to create in-kind partnerships based on trading complimentary skills and backgrounds. 7 Empowering Benefits of Working Collaboratively Wonderful things can happen when organizations work together:
If we truly want to make things better and improve our mission, then we have to cooperate. It's not about us. It's not about the scarcity. It's so much more. We have to work together. We have to ask ourselves how we can give back to the community and improve each other’s mission, whether or not it comes back directly to us. To read today's full episode: 7 Reasons Working Collaboratively Helps Your Team Get More Done
Challenge Question:
Meet Dr. Vince Lindenmeyer (from https://beacon4today.com/resources/) Dr. Vince Lindenmeyer, Colonel, US Army (Retired), is a Principal of the Beacon 4sight Group that helps women, veterans, minorities, persons with disabilities, and the formerly incarcerated start nonprofits and businesses to create economic growth for equality and justice. Colonel Lindenmeyer served a 26-year career with overseas tours to Korea, Egypt, Qatar, and Iraq, earning the Bronze Star Medal. As an educator, Dr. Lindenmeyer has taught face-to-face and distance learning over the past 20-years. He earned a BS in Systems Engineering (West Point, United States Military Academy), master’s degrees (three) in Logistics Management, M.Ed., an MA in Strategic Studies, and a Ph.D. in Education. Connect with Vince
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: | |||
| 16: Pro Grant Writing Tip: How to Write Tight (with Examples) | 15 Dec 2020 | 00:09:01 | |
One Practical Step to Improve Your Writing Hey friends! I’ve heard from a lot of you lately at different stages of your grant writing journey. The one thing I keep hearing over and over is, “Where do I start?” There are lots of places you COULD start, and that’s where we often get paralyzed. This podcast is called Grant Writing Simplified for a reason. We're looking at various aspects of grant writing and breaking it down into doable baby steps. Today I’m going to give you one simple way to improve your writing, whether it’s grant writing, reports, emails, or whatever. We all have to write something in life, so might as well make it as good as possible. This will also give you a taste of what’s in my VIP Program, Fast Track to Grant Writer. If you're ready to move through a lot of baby steps like this one in a short time, then the Fast Track is for you. In this super practical episode, the skill I’m talking about today is learning to write tight. To read the full examples given in the episode, head to www.teresahuff.com/write-tight. Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer If you are ready to invest in your future - and ultimately, in the community around you, then sign up for Fast Track to Grant Writer. The sooner you get started, the sooner you’ll be on your way to grant writing success. This is a pilot program so it’s your ONLY chance to grab it for this price. Sign up at teresahuff.com/vip. December 15, 2020, is the LAST day to get the bonus 1:1 strategy session. Someone told me just yesterday on a strategy call, “WOW, this was so helpful! I never would’ve even thought of doing that. Now I know exactly where to focus next.” Enrollment for the pilot program closes December 31, 2020 - that’s New Year’s Eve at midnight central time. And yes, that signup deadline is intentional. Let’s kick 2020 out the door so we can start 2021 on the fast track. Connect with Teresa Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Follow Me on Social: | |||
| 15: Grant Writing for International Nonprofits + Building a Case for Support: Interview with Grant Writer Kathy Hoeck, KLH Grant Services | 08 Dec 2020 | 00:54:57 | |
Today I’m interviewing my friend and fellow grant writer Kathy Hoeck who has written grants for over a decade. I invited Kathy on the show because she works with several international nonprofits, but as you’ll see, we also get into a LOT of great strategy and tips as we talk shop today. Grab a pen and notebook because there are so many good takeaways in today’s episode! Kathy owns KLH Grant Services and is a consultant with National Christian Foundation Heartland. She works with faith-based nonprofit foundation research and grant writing. You can read her full (and impressive) bio below. As you listen, I think you’ll appreciate her drive and ambition, as well as her heart to serve communities locally and around the world. Resources Mentioned: Book: Operation World Episode 6: Grant Readiness: How to Build the Foundation for Successful Grant Writing Episode 9: What a Grant Funder Really Wants Fast Track to Grant Writer Hey my friend! Are you ready to learn grant writing, but you have no idea where to start? …and you’re frustrated because you don’t have anyone to ask? You’re wondering...
You feel like everyone else just “knows” this stuff, so why can’t you seem to figure it out? What if you could start your career as a confident, knowledgeable grant writer? Imagine sounding professional when approaching a client or grant funder. Imagine having a big impact on the world around you. Fast Track to Grant Writer is an 8-week LIVE small group coaching and mentoring experience. This is everything the books won’t tell you. You’ll get hands-on guidance, feedback, and accountability that will literally fast track your grant writing career. This program can open doors for you like never before so you can make an impact like you never imagined. Sign up by December 15th to get a bonus 1:1 strategy session with me. Go to teresahuff.com/vip and enroll. Let’s get your career on the fast track. About Kathy Hoeck, KLH Grant Services: Kathy launched KLH Grant Services, LLC in 2015 and serves as a consultant with National Christian Foundation Heartland assisting in areas of faith-based nonprofit foundation research and grant writing. Kathy’s first experience in grant writing began in 2009 while working with a faith-based health care clinic where her passion for research and writing assisted the clinic in the development of a successful grant-seeking plan. Along with foundation research and proposal writing, Kathy works with clients defining their mission and finalizing their Case Statement leveraging her clients for a successful grants program. Kathy is the past secretary and a current member of the Southwest Missouri Grant Writers Association and a member of the American Grant Writers Association. KLH focuses on Christian nonprofit ministries assisting in the development of award-winning proposals that address the educational, medical, spiritual, and financial disparities plaguing local communities and communities around the world. Kathy is passionate about her family, adoption, bringing hope to the hurting, being outside, and the written word. She and her husband are proud parents of four grown children and grandparents to seven amazing little people. Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Social: LinkedIn | |||
| 14: Grant Writer Success Rates: Am I a bad grant writer if I don’t win the grant? | 01 Dec 2020 | 00:09:13 | |
The #1 question I hear from new grant writers is, “But how do I start?” Funny thing is, they’re still asking this even after they’ve learned some of the basics of grant writing. They aren’t sure if they have what it takes. They don’t know how to approach prospective clients. They don’t know what services to offer. I’ve even had grant writers say to me, “Nonprofits want a grant writer with experience, but how are you supposed to get experience when you’re new?” It’s kind of a catch-22. It always comes back down to, “How do I start?” My friends, I’ve got the answer to that question. It’s called Fast Track to Grant Writer. This is a live small group VIP Program. It starts January 2021 and it’s full of stuff the books won’t tell you. You’ll get all kinds of pro grant writing advice, 1:1 attention, and feedback to be sure you know exactly how to start your grant writing career by the end of the 8 weeks. We’ll cover the mindset and strategy behind successful grant writing, advanced grant writing skills, and how to set up your consulting business or job search. It’s going to be an intense 8 weeks that will transform your career. I’m looking for grant writers who are ready to go all in and invest in themselves and their future...those of you who are ready to be a part of a ripple effect to change the world through grant writing. Spots are limited and this is a rare chance to get hands-on feedback from me. If you enroll by December 15th, you get a bonus 1:1 strategy session with me. Learn more and save your spot today at teresahuff.com/vip. Other Episode Mentioned: Episode 6 - Grant Readiness: How to Build the Foundation for Successful Grant Writing Connect with Teresa: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: LinkedIn | |||
| 13: Nonprofit Spotlight: The Global Orphan Project - On a Mission to Change a Generation [Interview with Trace Thurlby] | 24 Nov 2020 | 00:44:46 | |
Wow, you guys, today’s episode is a nonprofit spotlight and their work is SO impactful. Not only that, but you’ll hear some innovative ways they’re funding the nonprofit by creating fair trade, living wage jobs.
Join the VIP Pilot Program: Fast Track to Grant Writer Before we dive in, I want to let you know about a new opportunity for those of you ready to get serious about your grant writing career in 2021. I’m opening up a limited number of spots for a VIP Program called Fast Track to Grant Writer. This is an 8-week LIVE small group coaching experience where you’ll learn how to be the go-to grant writer in your community. Fast Track to Grant Writer VIP Program is full of stuff the books won’t tell you. It’s like Miracle Gro for grant writers. If you’re ready to invest in your future - and your community - then sign up today. Enrollment for this round closes December 31, 2020, and it will not be offered again at this price. Plus, if you join by December 15th, you get a bonus 1:1 coaching call with me. Get the details and sign up at teresahuff.com/vip. Nonprofit Spotlight: The Global Orphan Project - Trace Thurlby Today I’m talking with Trace Thurlby of The Global Orphan Project. I saw an article featuring this nonprofit in the newspaper and knew I had to learn more. Trace is the President of The Global Orphan Project. For more than 25 years, Trace Thurlby has served in the military, the business world, and in ministry. Despite the different challenges, missions, structures, and stakeholders, Trace’s focus has remained the same – helping organizations and individuals succeed. He currently serves on the leadership team at The Global Orphan Project, where he has the privilege of living out his passion to serve at-risk children and families. Learn more about God's heart for his children at www.goproject.org. Trace and his bride Kristin have been married 26 years and live in the Kansas City area with their four children. Be sure to check out the links below to learn how you can be a part of this amazing work. I hope you are as blessed by this interview as I was. Learn More and Support The Global Orphan Project: *Shop at www.goex.org and get 10% off your first order.*
Connect with Teresa: Website: www.teresahuff.com Join the Fast Track to Grant Writer VIP Program: www.teresahuff.com/vip Social: LinkedIn | |||
| 12: Grant Writer Strategy Call: Do I Have What It Takes? How Do I Get Started in Grant Writing? | 17 Nov 2020 | 00:47:08 | |
I hope you came ready to learn today because we have another grant writer strategy session, and this is packed full of good stuff. If you are thinking about grant writing, or if you are a grant writer and you just don't know how to move forward, this is the episode for you. Pay attention and be ready to take notes because we cover so much in this - everything from imposter syndrome to how to find resources for board members and where to connect with networking groups and other grant writers. Resources Mentioned:
About Alexandra Enns: Alexandra Enns holds a Master of Public Administration degree and completed her Bachelor of Arts in Rhetoric, Writing and Communications in 2015. She currently works as a Policy Analyst in the Economic Development sector, and is a volunteer grants, policies and procedures officer for an upcoming nonprofit that will provide addictions recovery services. Alexandra finds joy in motivating others to embrace their unique stories, and crafting effective messages to help non-profits achieve their missions. Since 2014, she’s been involved in mental health advocacy, including the creation of mental health promotion campaigns for universities, and facilitating engaging mental health education workshops for hundreds of youth. In her spare time, she loves writing poetry, watching films, taking her dog April for walks, and tutoring students at Wayfinders, an after-school program for youth. Alex provides editing and copywriting services for non-profits and individuals at a sliding scale that works for each person’s income. She is a strong, dynamic writer who has written and edited social media copy, academic papers, briefing notes, blog posts, book reviews, summaries, speaking notes, operational manuals, annual reports, communication plans, press releases, correspondence, policy, research and program evaluation papers, and has developed and facilitated workshop presentations. Connect with Alex Enns: Instagram: @alexandraloreleii
Connect with Teresa: Website: www.teresahuff.com Grant Writing Courses: www.teresahuff.com/learn Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: LinkedIn | |||
| 11: What Skills Do You Need to Be a Grant Writer? | 10 Nov 2020 | 00:13:41 | |
People often ask me about grant writing, but they aren't sure if they would be any good at it. You can take the quiz to help you figure out, but today I want to talk through some of the important characteristics that are ideal for a grant writer. These grant writing skills fall into three main categories:
Each of those aspects of grant writing can be learned and developed. It takes lots of practice. The sooner you start, the sooner you'll improve! Resources Mentioned: Episode 9: What a Grant Funder REALLY Wants: Interview with Mindy Honey, Skaggs Foundation Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Connect with Teresa: Website: www.teresahuff.com Social: LinkedIn
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| 10: Grant Writing Q&A: How long does it take to get grant funding after the application is submitted? | 06 Nov 2020 | 00:08:46 | |
Now and then I like to do a quick Q&A episode with questions I often hear about grant writing. Today's question: How long does it take to actually get the grant funding after you submit the application? The short answer is that it'll probably take much longer than you'd like. Truth: Sometimes waiting is the hardest part! Listen in as I explain funder timelines, the range of time you can expect, and other aspects you probably hadn't thought of. Other episodes mentioned: Episode 3: Grant Writing Q&A - How much time does it take to write a grant? Episode 9: What a Grant Funder REALLY Wants: Interview with Mindy Honey, Skaggs Foundation Connect with Teresa: Website: www.teresahuff.com Email: podcast@teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: LinkedIn
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| 9: What a Grant Funder Really Wants: Interview with a Grant Maker + Checklist Download [Mindy Honey, Skaggs Foundation] | 03 Nov 2020 | 00:33:35 | |
You know how I’m always throwing out grant writing advice like, “Follow the guidelines!” or “Don’t miss a deadline!” Well, today you don’t just have to take my word for it. I’m interviewing a grant maker so you can hear from someone on the other side of the desk what grant funders really want. I’m talking with Mindy Honey from the Skaggs Foundation in Branson, MO. As Director of Community Relations for the Foundation, Mindy's duties include grant administration for Skaggs Legacy Endowment as well as grant writing for Skaggs Foundation. Skaggs Legacy Endowment was established in 2013 and since that time, more than $5.9 million has been awarded to organizations improving health and wellness in Stone and Taney counties in Missouri. There are lots of great takeaways in this episode! So many, in fact, that I decided to throw them all in a downloadable list that you can grab at www.teresahuff.com/funder. Listen in to the interview and learn from a grantmaker herself!
Website: www.skaggsfoundation.org Facebook: Skaggs Foundation Email: mindy.honey@skaggs.net Connect with Teresa: Website: www.teresahuff.com Download the list of today's tips: www.teresahuff.com/funder Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: LinkedIn | |||
| 8: Grant Writing Q&A: Why Are Grant Application Guidelines So Different? | 30 Oct 2020 | 00:06:57 | |
https://www.teresahuff.com/script Today I’m doing a quick Q&A episode for you on grant application guidelines. Next week’s episode is such a good interview with a grant funder, so be sure to come back for Episode 9 to catch that. In preparation for that episode, I want to address a question I often hear: Why do grant funder guidelines vary so much from one foundation to the next? Short answer: Because it’s their money so they get to make the rules, that’s why. I preach over and over how important it is to follow the guidelines when you’re applying for a grant. First, what do I mean by that? Grant guidelines are:
Why are they so different? Each funder’s purpose and platform for offering grant funds is different. Their work in the community and their goals differ from one foundation to the next. They’re looking for an ROI (Return on Investment, or Impact), and what is going to give the greatest return. They develop their grant guidelines accordingly. Some applications require all kinds of extra documentation - letters of support, signatures, forms, maps, price quotes, etc. Others want heavy research and statistics. Then there’s the whole range from a general request to the most detailed project design, complete with logic models and tables. Once in awhile, you’ll come across one that really doesn’t give you much guidance at all. You’re left shooting in the dark and hoping to hit the mark. That’s where a phone call or email comes in handy when possible. Now before you go all deer in the headlights on me at the thought of talking to a grantmaker, I’ve got you covered here. You can grab my Grant Funder Call Script where I map out how to prepare for the call, a step by step script so you’ll know what kinds of questions to ask, and a template that you can customize for each funder. Go to teresahuff.com/script and start calling with confidence. Our job is to present each individualized request in a way that clearly paints a picture for that funder of your organization’s need. You've got this! Connect with Teresa: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: LinkedIn | |||
| 7: Google Ad Grant: The Nonprofit World's Best-Kept Secret [Interview with Grant Hensel, CEO of Nonprofit Megaphone and Google Ad Grant Expert] | 27 Oct 2020 | 00:26:05 | |
If you work in the nonprofit world in any capacity, you need to know about this resource. This could benefit so many nonprofits, but most don’t even know it exists. I’m talking about the Google Ad Grant. This gives registered nonprofits a $10,000/month advertising credit to use for Google ads. I’ve brought in an expert today to share the ins and outs of this resource. Grant Hensel is the CEO of Nonprofit Megaphone, an agency focused 100% on Google Grant Management for nonprofits. Nonprofit Megaphone is honored to manage the Google Grant for 370+ leading nonprofits worldwide and to be an inaugural member of the Google Ad Grant Certified Professionals community. Grant explains what the Google Ad Grant is designed for, shares some great tips, and tells us how you can position your nonprofit to make the most out of this free advertising. Resources we mention in this episode:
Connect with Grant Hensel, Nonprofit Megaphone: Website: nonprofitmegaphone.com Connect with Teresa: Website: www.teresahuff.com Grant Writing Courses: www.teresahuff.com/learn Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: LinkedIn Are you a nonprofit or freelance grant writer and need support figuring out your next steps? Book a strategy starter call at www.teresahuff.com/strategy and let’s get you moving forward. | |||
| 138: 5 Easy Grant Writing Tips to Build Strategic, Lasting - by Teresa Huff | 27 Jun 2023 | 00:12:03 | |
Join me on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip
In our last episode, we talked about how your nonprofit can stay relevant to funders, in the community, and as a grant writer. Today we’re going to talk about how to write stronger grant proposals and build relationships with funders by aligning the relevance of your program to their mission. I talked about relevance in my TEDx Talk, “The Real ROI of Grant Writing.” Funders need to know they will get a Return on Impact for investing in your nonprofit. This means you need to convince the funder that your nonprofit is Relevant, Optimized, and Interacting in meaningful ways. If you haven’t already, you can watch my TEDx talk on YouTube. How Strategic Positioning Can Help Build Your ROI Grant writers look for grants that will help the nonprofit reach their organizational goals. Of course funders have goals too, but their goals are not necessarily related to the success of your organization. A funder’s mission is to serve the community in a specific way. For a nonprofit, strategic positioning is about writing a grant proposal from the funder’s priorities. The funder wants to know how investing in your nonprofit will help them accomplish their goals, not yours. To convince the funder they will get the most return on impact by investing in your nonprofit, show them how your organization is relevant to their goals. They need to see how your program will help the external community, even if it's building your internal capacity. You can do that by strategically positioning the grant to show how your nonprofit aligns with their goals. 5 Tips to Align Your Program with a Funder’s Goals Oswald Chambers wrote, “Life serves back in the coin you pay.” Let’s keep that in mind in the context of our grant writing work. Look at the bigger picture, the overall context in which your organization has an impact, and consider how you are serving and giving to the community. Then write the grant from a position of service. Five ways to show how your organization serves the funder’s mission:
To read today's full episode: 5 Easy Grant Writing Tips to Build Strategic, Lasting Relationships
ResourcesMentioned:
Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Watch the TEDx: The Real ROI of Grant Writing Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer:
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| 6: Grant Readiness: Is Your Nonprofit Ready for Grants? How to Build the Foundation for Successful Grant Writing + Bonus Grant Readiness Checkup Infographic | 20 Oct 2020 | 00:10:35 | |
Today's episode is going to lay the groundwork for preparing a non-profit for grants. Many people want to jump right into grant writing. They think, "Just send the money ‘cause we need it now!" Let me challenge you to a different approach. We’re going to take a few steps back and talk about preparation. Is the nonprofit ready for grants? If not, you won’t get very far and your efforts won’t be nearly as effective. Let’s talk about how to prepare for grants in the first place so you’ll be ready to actually write the grant and have a better chance of success. Grab the quick Grant Readiness Checkup at www.teresahuff.com/checkup. If you are a non-profit or a freelance writer and aren't sure where to start, book a strategy session and let's get things in order. We’ll map it out so you can finish 2020 strong and hit the ground running in 2021. Connect with Teresa: Website: www.teresahuff.com Grant Writing Courses: www.teresahuff.com/learn Book a Strategy Session: www.teresahuff.com/strategy Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: LinkedIn | |||
| 5: Grant Writer Strategy Session: Is Grant Writing My Next Right Step? | 13 Oct 2020 | 00:28:42 | |
I'm excited to share this grant writing strategy call with Lisa Ortman. Her background is so unique! (Hint: Her undergrad degree is in forestry.) Lisa reached out to me wondering if grant writing might be her next right step, so we met for a strategy session and worked out an action plan. I think she even surprised herself with how relevant her skills and education are to grant writing! We discuss several aspects of grant writing strategy on the call:
Listen in and see if it sparks some ideas for your next right step. If it does, head to www.teresahuff.com/strategy and book your own session. Let's get you out there and change the world. In a grant writing strategy call like this, we can map out topics like:
And lots more. Hit me up if grant writing is one of those ideas that keeps pulling on you and I'll help you sort it out. We need you to help make an impact! About Lisa: Lisa Ortman is an educational equity advocate, family engagement specialist, and mom to 3 boys. She has a Bachelor's in forestry and a Master's in education. After 10 years in the wine industry, she decided it was time to find work where she can give back to the community. That's when she started working in education and the ESL population. As someone who actually enjoyed writing her Master's thesis, I can sense a fellow grant writer at heart! Lisa has such a heart for serving in her community. I can't wait to see how she uses her skills to move forward! Connect with Teresa: Website: www.teresahuff.com Grant Writing Courses: www.teresahuff.com/learn Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: LinkedIn | |||
| 4: Lessons I Learned from 15 Years of Grant Writing + Bonus Download | 06 Oct 2020 | 00:10:51 | |
Today I want to share with you some important lessons I've learned over the last 15 years of being a grant writer. The journey hasn’t been linear, but I’ve learned from every step. I'll talk about four key areas:
To download the full PDF guide, go to www.teresahuff.com/lessonslearned. I can’t write ALL the grants for ALL the great causes out there. Nor would I want to! That’s why I feel strongly about mentoring others. Together we can create a much bigger ripple effect. Ready for deeper support in building your grant writing business or your nonprofit's plan of action? I'm here to help. Book a session at www.teresahuff.com/strategy. Let's start this journey and change the world together! Connect with Teresa: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: LinkedIn | |||