Exploring the Opportunities and Counting the Cost

Are you a leader of a church or religious non-profit organization seeking to expand your ministry’s reach and impact? This one-day seminar presented by New England Mission Foundation is crafted to equip you with the knowledge and tools to navigate the complex world of grant writing effectively. Whether you’re new to grant writing or looking to refine your approach, this seminar will offer essential insights and practical strategies to help your organization secure funding while staying aligned with your mission and values.

What You’ll Learn:

Through interactive sessions and expert-led discussions, you’ll explore:

• When and Why to Apply for a Grant: Gain clarity on the circumstances that make pursuing a grant worthwhile—and when it’s best to focus your energy elsewhere.
• Laying the Groundwork: Discover critical preliminary steps to take before beginning a grant application, ensuring you’re fully prepared.
• Identifying Opportunities: Learn how to research and identify grant opportunities tailored to religious nonprofits in New England.
• Choosing the Right Fit: Understand what to look for in a foundation and specific grant initiatives to ensure alignment with your goals and values.
• Crafting a Compelling Proposal: Unpack the essential qualities of a strong grant proposal that captures attention and communicates impact.

Additionally, you’ll gain hands-on knowledge about:

• The grant application process, including navigating open grants and Requests for Proposals (RFPs).
• Expert tips and techniques to streamline your application process and avoid common pitfalls.
• Insights into how foundations review grant proposals and practical advice on managing grant responsibilities once awarded.

Why Attend?

This seminar goes beyond theory to offer actionable advice and a comprehensive roadmap for successful grant applications. You’ll leave equipped with tools to:

• Enhance your organization’s financial sustainability.
• Build confidence in approaching foundations.
• Increase your effectiveness in communicating your organization’s mission and vision to potential funders.

About the Seminar Leader:

Dr. Kevin Lawson brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this seminar. A semi-retired Global Affiliate Professor of Educational Studies at Talbot School of Theology, Biola University, Dr. Lawson has decades of firsthand experience securing grants for research and ministry projects.

Notably, he has been awarded grants from prestigious organizations such as The Louisville Institute and the Lilly Endowment. Dr. Lawson has also served as a reviewer for grant proposals submitted to Lilly Endowment’s Nurturing Children’s Faith initiatives.

Beyond academia, Dr. Lawson is deeply invested in church and ministry life. Since moving to southern Maine in 2021, he has been serving as an elder at GracePoint Church in Biddeford and leading a pastoral cohort for Overseed Ministry. His approachable teaching style and practical advice will help equip you to pursue relevant grant opportunities.

Seminar Schedule:

• 8:30-9:00: Registration and refreshments
• 9:00-10:30: Session 1 – Testing the Waters: Finding the right grant opportunities and preparing your organization
• 10:30-10:45: Break
• 10:45-12:15: Session 2 – Developing a Strong Proposal: Building the foundation of an effective grant application
• 12:15-1:00: Lunch (provided)
• 1:00-2:15: Session 3 – Grant Writing Tips and Q&A: Expert advice and answering your most pressing questions
• 2:15-2:30: Break
• 2:30-3:00: Session 4 – The Consulting Process: Navigating professional support and ensuring success

This seminar is not just a learning opportunity but a chance to connect with like-minded New England ministry leaders, exchange ideas, and leave inspired to take your ministry to the next level.

Register today and take the first step toward unlocking new possibilities for your organization!