Course Outline:

Module 1: Introduction to Grant Writing and Fundraising Landscape

• Understanding the grant environment and types of funders

• Overview of the proposal writing process

• Key success factors in securing funding

• Case Study/Project: Analyze a successful vs. unsuccessful grant application

Module 2: Identifying and Assessing Funding Opportunities

• Researching donors and funding databases

• Matching proposals with funder priorities

• Reading and interpreting calls for proposals (CFPs)

• Case Study/Project: Identify and analyze 2 relevant donor opportunities

Module 3: Problem Identification and Needs Assessment

• Conducting stakeholder and community needs assessments

• Writing clear problem and situational analysis statements

• Linking evidence to proposal justification

• Case Study/Project: Draft a needs assessment summary from a case scenario

Module 4: Defining Project Goals, Objectives, and Outcomes

• Writing SMART objectives and linking them to outcomes

• Introduction to results frameworks and theory of change

• Avoiding goal creep and scope issues

• Case Study/Project: Create an objectives-outcomes-impact table

Module 5: Proposal Structure and Components

• Standard proposal formats and common sections

• Writing the executive summary and background sections

• Clear articulation of methodology and implementation strategy

• Case Study/Project: Draft the executive summary and background of a sample proposal

Module 6: Logical Frameworks and Work Plans

• Using logframes to present objectives, indicators, and assumptions

• Creating detailed activity plans and timelines

• Tools: Gantt charts, work breakdown structures (WBS)

• Case Study/Project: Build a logical framework matrix for a proposed project

Module 7: Budgeting and Financial Planning

• Creating realistic and funder-compliant budgets

• Budget notes and justification

• Aligning budget with activities and outcomes

• Case Study/Project: Develop a budget for a proposed project with justification notes

Module 8: Monitoring, Evaluation, and Sustainability Plans

• Designing basic M&E frameworks and indicators

• Planning for sustainability beyond the funding period

• Linking learning and reporting to project improvement

• Case Study/Project: Draft a simple M&E plan with outputs and KPIs

Module 9: Writing Style, Editing, and Packaging Proposals

• Writing with clarity, conciseness, and persuasion

• Editing techniques and proposal formatting

• Using donor checklists and submission tools

• Case Study/Project: Review and edit a draft proposal as a peer exercise

Module 10: Final Proposal Development and Presentation

• Final group presentation of proposal drafts

• Receiving feedback from peers and facilitators

• Tips for relationship-building with donors and post-submission follow-up

• Capstone Project: Submit a full grant proposal with supporting documents and presentation