UMPI to host grant writing workshop
PRESQUE ISLE — The University of Maine at Presque Isle will host a workshop entitled Grant Writing Basics, presented by experienced grant writer Kimberly Smith, on Tuesday, March 20, from 9 a.m. to noon in the Campus Center.
The presentation will cover many topics within grant writing, including: what the trends are today, who is eligible to apply, how to find the grantors and make sure you’re a good fit for their programs, what should be included in your grant application, what supporting documents you should include, how to create a grant project budget, when to include a cover letter and what happens after you get the grant (or don’t).
Smith holds a master’s degree in business administration from Husson University and a certificate in non-profit management from Shenandoah University in Winchester, Va. She has served as the CEO of three non-profit organizations, which have won national awards under her stewardship, and has served as a consultant for five other non-profits around the country.
She has more than 20 years of experience in computer software application instruction and has taught at the collegiate and graduate levels. Most recently, she was instrumental in obtaining funding for and implementing an eight-course non-profit management program through a partnership with a local college.
“In today’s economic environment, non-profits need all of the tools and resources they can find to be more effective,” Smith said. “Trends tell us that 62 percent of grantors have reduced the funding available and that they are operating with fewer assets. In addition, many have narrowed their grant focus. This means that there are more organizations competing for the same dollar. With these circumstances, it is imperative that our grant applications be more competitive. This is an opportunity to learn more about the process and how to be more effective in that process without having to leave the County for a class.”
Cost for this public workshop is $45 for community members and $15 for UMPI students. The registration deadline is noon on March 16. To register, contact UMPI’s Conferences and Special Programs office at 768-9502 or e-mail marialuisa.udasco@umpi.edu.
