Many organizations rely on grants to support their mission—but successful grant writing takes more than filling out an application. This interactive workshop is designed to help nonprofit leaders, staff, and volunteers better understand what makes a strong grant proposal and how to approach grant funding realistically and strategically.

Participants will gain a clear overview of the grant-writing process, from defining purpose and crafting narratives to understanding budgets, financial documentation, and reporting requirements. The workshop will also explore how grant reviewers evaluate applications, common pitfalls to avoid, and best practices for strengthening your organization’s submissions.

This session will address:

• The core components of a successful grant application

• How to align your mission, project purpose, and funding request

• Writing clear, compelling narratives for reviewers

• Understanding budgets, financial reports, and accountability

• Using tools and resources to support grant research and writing

• The appropriate role of AI and external support in grant writing

​This workshop is ideal for organizations that are new to grant writing as well as those looking to refine their approach. Participants should leave with practical insights, realistic expectations, and tools they can apply to future grant opportunities.

Thank you to our Panelists: 

• Anna Pollock - Executive Director, Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council

• John Illikman - Executive Director, New Ulm Area Foundation

• Mary Ellen Domeier - Board Governance Consultant and Community Leader (Retired) - Mary Ellen Domeier is a 37-year veteran of the banking industry, having retired as CEO and Chair of Frandsen Bank & Trust.  She subsequently served as Chair of corporate Bank Midwest, Spirit Lake, Iowa, assisting them in establishing a branch in New Ulm.  As a lifelong citizen of New Ulm, she has dedicated many hours to economic development and non-profit efforts. These include serving as a founder of the New Ulm Area Foundation, among other local, state, and federal boards, committees, and commissions, most recently serving as president emeritus and volunteer chief financial officer of the State Street Theater Co..)  Many of her efforts have included writing of grant applications. Mother of three, grandmother of six, she enjoys doting on the latest family addition, one-year-old great granddaughter, Ivy Ellen. 

• Sandy Reinke - Board Member, State Street Theater Company and Experienced Grant Writer - Sandy Reinke is a New Ulm native with deep roots in the community and nearly 30 years of professional experience in quality analysis and management within the telecommunications industry. Prior to retirement, she also owned and operated a small retail business in downtown New Ulm. Sandy remains deeply engaged in the community as Co-Founder and President of the Tea for Cancer Foundation, a member of the Executive Board of State Street Theater, and an active officer/board member on various local boards and committees. Her grant writing experience spans both nonprofit and arts organizations, with a focus on sustainability, community impact, and mission-driven programming. When she’s not working on community projects, Sandy cherishes time with her husband, Tim, their family - including their children and grandson (2^nd grandson coming in June!), and their three Labrador retrievers, who keep life active and joyful.

Please RSVP by March 12th for this free event! Heavy Apps will be provided.

This workshop is made possible through the support of the New Ulm Area Foundation, whose investment helps strengthen local organizations and the impact they have in our community.