Storytelling for Grantseekers (PDF)

Grantwriters often have little or no training in the practical task
of grantseeking. Many feel intimidated by the act of writing, and
some don't enjoy writing. In Storytelling for Grantseekers,
Second Edition, Cheryl Clarke presents an organic approach to
grantseeking, one that views the process through the lens of the
pleasures and rewards of crafting a good story. Grantseekers who
approach the process as one in which they are connecting with an
audience (grantmakers) and writing a narrative (complete with
settings, characters, antagonists and resolutions) find greater
success with funders. The writing process becomes a rewarding way
to tell the organization's tale, rather than a chore, and their
passion and creativity lead to winning proposals.

This book walks readers through all the main phases of the
proposal, highlighting the creative elements that link components
to each other and unify the entire proposal. The book contains
resources on crafting an effective synopsis, overcoming
grantwriter's block, packaging the story, and the best ways to
approach the "short stories" (inquiry and cover letters) that
support the larger proposal.

Clarke also stresses the need to see proposal-writing as part of
a larger grantseeking effort, one that emphasizes preparation,
working with the entire development staff, and maintaining good
relations with funders. In Storytelling for Grantseekers, new and
experienced grantseekers alike will discover how to write and
support successful proposals with humor and passion.

New edition features:

* Overall updates as well as both refreshed and new examples

* Workshop exercises for using the storytelling approach

* New chapters on the application of the storytelling method to
other fundraising communications like appeal letters and case
statements, as well as the importance of site visits

* Example of a full narrative proposal