Course Overview
This practical course equips participants with the skills and knowledge to craft compelling grant proposals and secure funding for projects and initiatives. Through interactive modules, participants will learn the fundamentals of grant writing, including how to indentify funding opportunities, develop persuasive proposals, and effectively manage grants. The course focuses on strengthening grant writing skills and building strong relationships with funding organizations.
Course Details
Format: This course is delivered online in an asynchronous format, allowing participants to learn and complete coursework at their own pace.
Duration: 4 weeks
Course Date Options:
- November 2 - November 28, 2026
- March 1 - March 28, 2027
Weekly Commitment: Approximately 3 hours per week
Cost: $375
- Course materials are provided online. Printed course materials are also available for an additional $99 per course.
Available Discounts
- Current Trent University Undergraduate students qualify for a 40% discount. Contact microcredential@trentu.ca for details.
- Trent University alumni receive a 10% discount. Contact alumni@trentu.ca for details.
Only one discount may be applied per registration.
Credential Earned: Digital Badge
Course Instructor: Carey McMaster, Capacity Building Specialist
Part of a Larger Credential
This micro-credential is one of nine courses that make up the Nonprofit Management Essentials Milestone-Badge. Complete all nine courses to earn the Milestone-Badge and develop well-rounded expertise in nonprofit leadership and management.
Interested in pursuing the full program? Learn more about the Milestone-Badge and its nine-course pathway, or register for the full program.
Registration
Ready to register?
Note for Trent University Staff
Permanent OPSEU employees at Trent University are now eligible for tuition waivers for Trent University micro-credential courses. Please do not register or pay through this page. Visit Support → Human Resources / Payroll / Waivers → Micro-Credential - Staff for waiver and registration instructions.
Funding Opportunities
Participants may be eligible for financial assistance through OSAP or the Ontario Job Grant, which provides funding support for employers investing in employee training.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Explain the grant writing process and its key components.
- Apply practical skills to identify and approach potential funders.
- Develop persuasive and well-structured grant proposals that align with funder priorities.
- Effectively manage and report on grants, ensuring compliance and accountability.
Course Lessons
Lesson 1: Understanding the Grant Writing Process & its Critical Elements
- Overview of the grant writing lifecycle
- Key components of a successful grant proposal
- Researching and selecting appropriate funding opportunities
- Proposal development and submission best practices
Lesson 2: Identifying & Evaluating Potential Funding Sources
- Types of funding sources (government grants, foundation grants, corporate sponsorships)
- Analyzing funder priorities and requirements
- Aligning organizational needs with funder interest
- Developing a targeted funding strategy
Lesson 3: Developing Clear, Compelling & Persuasive Grant Proposals
- Crafting a compelling narrative and problem statement
- Outlining project goals, objectives, and outcomes
- Creating a detailed project budget and justification
- Writing and editing techniques to enhance proposal effectiveness
Lesson 4: Implementing Strategies for Managing Grant-Funded Projects
- Ensuring compliance with funder guidelines and requirements
- Monitoring and reporting on project progress and outcomes
- Evaluating project success and impact
View the full course curriculum.
Assessment Requirements
This course is graded on a Complete/Incomplete basis. To earn the micro-credential, participants must successfully complete:
- Active participation in online discussions
- Lesson-based assessments, such as quizzes, reflections, or case studies
Admission Requirements
Prerequisites
No formal prerequisites are required. Familiarity with basic business principles and not-for-profit organizations is helpful but not necessary.
Tax Receipt Information
Students may be eligible to receive a T2202 Tuition and Enrolment Certificate if their micro-credential meets Canada Revenue Agency requirements.
To qualify, students must meet the following criteria:
- Be enrolled in a qualifying educational program that provides at least 12 hours of instruction within a calendar month.
- Pay a minimum course fee of $150.
- Not receive a grant, reimbursement, benefit, or allowance for the program from an arm’s length party that would make the program ineligible under CRA guidelines.
Earn a Digital Badge
Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a verified digital badge that can be shared on LinkedIn, resumes, portfolios, and professional profiles.