Summer Cohort Certificate in Grant Writing Course
The Certificate in Grant Writing course is a comprehensive professional development course that walks you through the full grant writing process, from prospect research and readiness to proposal development, budgets, and grants management. You will learn how to strengthen your strategy, sharpen your narrative, and position your organization more clearly in a competitive funding environment. It is built for all levels, from those new to grant writing to experienced writers, with individualized feedback that meets you where you are.
Going for Gold: Earn Your Candid Gold Seal Webinar
Your Candid profile is often the first thing a funder sees, sometimes before they ever open your proposal. Yet most organizations leave their profile half-finished and miss the Seal of Transparency that signals credibility at a glance.
In this two-hour, hands-on workshop, you will build out your Candid profile alongside me and learn exactly what it takes to reach Gold.
The "Of Course" Factor: A Guide to Meaningful Grant Writing, Book Preview
The "Of Course" Factor: A Guide to Meaningful Grant Writing releases October 14, and before it hits shelves, you get the first look. Allison Welch, M.Ed., GPC pulls one core idea straight from the book: what it actually means to write a proposal that makes a funder think "of course this gets funded."
Certificate in Grant Writing Fall Cohort
The Certificate in Grant Writing course is a comprehensive professional development course that walks you through the full grant writing process, from prospect research and readiness to proposal development, budgets, and grants management. You will learn how to strengthen your strategy, sharpen your narrative, and position your organization more clearly in a competitive funding environment. It is built for all levels, from those new to grant writing to experienced writers, with individualized feedback that meets you where you are.
The "Of Course" Factor: A Guide to Meaningful Grant Writing, Book Launch
The "Of Course" Factor: A Guide to Meaningful Grant Writing is here. Join Allison Welch, M.Ed., GPC for a live conversation built around the book's central idea: that meaningful grant writing and effective grant writing are the same thing.
Build a Grant Calendar Webinar
Stop chasing deadlines one at a time. This session walks you through how to research funding opportunities and build a full year of grant pursuits, so you are planning ahead instead of scrambling behind.
In this one-hour, hands-on workshop, you will map your funding opportunities alongside me and build the start of a grant calendar you can carry through the year.
Setting Grant Writing Goals Webinar
Before the year turns over, take an hour to set intentions that actually fit how you want to work. This is not a productivity webinar. It is a chance to step back and think about what meaningful grant writing looks like for you in the year ahead.
In this one-hour, reflective workshop, you will set your intentions for the year alongside me and leave with a framework for grant writing that fits how you actually want to work.
Inside Grant Writing Businesses Webinar
What does it really look like behind the scenes of a grant writing business?
Presented by 501 Commons in partnership with Spark the Fire Grant Writing Classes, LLC, Inside Grant Writing Businesses offers an honest, practical look at how grant writing businesses are built, sustained, and scaled—and how nonprofits and grant writers can work effectively with them.
In this one-hour live webinar, Allison Jones, M.Ed., GPC, moderates a candid panel conversation with experienced grant writing professionals who bring different perspectives to the table. Together, they will discuss how grant writing businesses manage clients, set pricing, structure their work, and make decisions that support long-term sustainability.
This session is designed to serve three audiences at once:
Grant writers who are exploring freelance or business ownership paths
Grant professionals interested in growing or scaling a practice
Nonprofit leaders who want to better understand how to hire and work with a grant writing business
July Panelists Include:
Anne Lundquist, MSI, GPC
Jackson Cooper, MFA
You’ll Learn:
How grant writing businesses are structured and sustained over time
How firms approach pricing, capacity, and client relationships
What nonprofits can expect when working with a grant writing business
How grant writers transition into business ownership or firm leadership
Lessons learned about sustainability, boundaries, and growth
Who It’s For:
Grant writers, consultants, firm owners, nonprofit professionals, and anyone interested in the business side of grant writing and grant support.
Registration Includes:
✅ Access to the live session
✅ Replay with timestamped chapters and full transcript
✅ Resource list shared by the panelists
Price:
$25 per session or $97 for the series
Free for Members of the Spark the Fire Grant Writers Collective
Community Coworking
Thursday, June 25, 2:00 pm CT
Grant writing can be a solitary craft. Most of us work alone, juggling deadlines with no one in the room to keep us moving. Coworking fixes that. The idea is simple: a group of grant professionals sets aside the same block of time to work side by side, each on our own project, with a little structure around it to keep everyone focused.
Here is how the hour runs:
We open with a Q&A, so you can bring your burning grant writing questions to the group.
We each name a goal for the session, the one thing we want to move forward.
We work quietly together, heads down on our own projects.
We close with a check-in to share what we got done.
The power is in the accountability. Saying your goal out loud, then sitting down to work alongside people doing the same, is one of the most reliable ways to finally make progress on the project you keep putting off. Bring a proposal, a budget, a report, or the task you have been avoiding, and leave with it further along than when you arrived.
You do not have to write alone. Come work with us.
Business of Freelance Grant Writing Info Session and Course Orientation
The Business of Freelance Grant Writing: Course Preview & Platform Walkthrough
Curious about the freelancing course? Already enrolled and want to hit the ground running? This is your session.
Join Allison for a live, hands-on hour where you'll get the full picture of what the Business of Freelance Grant Writing Course is all about and exactly how to navigate the course once you're in.
First 30 minutes: The Course We'll walk through what the course actually is, what's included, how you earn your certificate, and what makes this program different. Bring your questions! This is the place to ask them.
Second 30 minutes: The Platform Tour A visual, click-by-click walkthrough of the course space inside our community. You'll see exactly where to find your lessons, how to post in discussions, submit assignments, access reading materials, track your progress through the modules, and more. No more wondering where anything lives.
Who this is for:
Grant writers thinking about enrolling who want to see what they'd be signing up for
Newly enrolled students who want a confident start
Current students who want a refresher on any part of the platform
When: Fourth Wednesdays of every month, 11 am PT, 12 pm MT, 1 pm CT, 2 pm ET
Where: Right here in the community
Click RSVP to join us and get reminders of this event.
Come with questions. Leave with clarity. See you there! 🔥
Certificate in Grant Writing Info Session and Orientation
Certificate in Grant Writing: Course Preview & Platform Walkthrough
Curious about the Certificate in Grant Writing? Already enrolled and want to hit the ground running? This is your session.
Join Allison for a live, hands-on hour where you'll get the full picture of what the Certificate in Grant Writing is all about — and exactly how to navigate the course once you're in.
First 30 minutes: The Course We'll walk through what the Certificate in Grant Writing actually is, what's included, how you earn your certification, and what makes this program different. Bring your questions — this is the place to ask them.
Second 30 minutes: The Platform Tour A visual, click-by-click walkthrough of the course space inside our community. You'll see exactly where to find your lessons, how to post in discussions, submit assignments, access reading materials, track your progress through the modules, and more. No more wondering where anything lives.
Who this is for:
Grant writers thinking about enrolling who want to see what they'd be signing up for
Newly enrolled students who want a confident start
Current students who want a refresher on any part of the platform
When: Third Thursdays of every month, 9 am PT, 10 am MT, 11 am CT, 12 pm ET
Where: Right here in the community
Click RSVP to join us and get reminders of this event.
Come with questions. Leave with clarity (and maybe a certification plan). See you there! 🔥
Spring Certificate in Grant Writing Course
Certificate in Grant Writing Course
April 7 through June 7, 2026
If you are finding that grant proposals that used to be competitive are no longer getting funded, you are not alone. The funding landscape has shifted, and many organizations are competing for the same dollars with higher expectations from funders.
This course is designed to help you adapt with clarity and confidence.
The Certificate in Grant Writing is a comprehensive professional development course that walks you through the full grant writing process, from prospect research and readiness to proposal development, budgets, and grants management. You will learn how to strengthen your strategy, sharpen your narrative, and position your work more clearly in an increasingly competitive environment.
This course is a good fit if you are responsible for writing or overseeing grants and you want to feel more grounded in your approach. You may be newer to grant writing, or you may have experience and simply need updated tools, structure, and perspective to respond to today’s funding realities.
You will participate in weekly, one-hour, live, interactive Zoom meetings on Tuesdays. These sessions include instruction, examples, and time for questions and discussion. Zoom login information is provided after you enroll.
You may choose from two weekly meeting times:
AFTERNOON SESSION
10–11 HT | 11–12 AKT | 12–1 PT | 1–2 MT | 2–3 CT | 3–4 ET
EVENING SESSION
3–4 HT | 4–5 AKT | 5–6 PT | 6–7 MT | 7–8 CT | 8–9 ET
By the end of this course, you will have a clearer grant writing strategy, stronger proposal components, and the confidence that comes from understanding not just how to write grants, but why certain approaches work in today’s funding landscape.
Winter Certificate in Grant Writing Course
Certificate in Grant Writing Course
Tuesday, January 13 through March 3rd, 2026
Certificate in Grant Writing is a comprehensive course in grant writing and grants management that will give you the experience and confidence you need to become a grant professional.
This course includes live Zoom meetings that are one hour weekly on Tuesdays. Zoom login information is provided after you enroll. You may choose from two meeting times:
AFTERNOON: 10-11 HT, 11-12 ASK, 12-1 PT, 1-2 MT, 2-3 CT, 3-4 ET
EVENING: 3-4 HT, 4-5 ASK, 5-6 PT, 6-7 MT, 7-8 CT, 8-9 ET
Inside Grant Writing Businesses - January Edition
Inside Grant Writing Businesses - January 2026
$25.00
Thursday, January 8th | 10:00–11:00 a.m. Central | Live on Zoom
Description:
Ever wondered what it’s really like to run a grant writing business? Join Spark the Fire founder Allison Jones, M.Ed., GPC and a panel of successful independent grant writers for a candid, behind-the-scenes conversation about how to build and sustain a thriving business as a grant professional.
In this one-hour live webinar, you’ll hear how solopreneurs and small business owners manage clients, set pricing, balance workloads, and stay inspired in their work. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your freelance business to the next level, you’ll walk away with actionable insights and encouragement from people who’ve done it. This month’s webinar features Stephanie Schweitzer Dixon, M.S., and others.
You’ll Learn:
How experienced grant writers built their businesses from the ground up
Tips for pricing, client communication, and managing your time
What to expect when transitioning from employee to business owner
How to find purpose and sustainability as an independent professional
Who It’s For:
Aspiring and current freelance grant writers, consultants, and anyone curious about the business side of grant writing.
Registration Includes:
✅ Access to the live session
✅ Replay with timestamped chapters and transcript
✅ List of shared resources from the panelists
Inside Grant Writing Firms - December Edition
Inside Grant Writing Businesses - December 2025
$25.00
Thursday, December 4 | 10:00–11:00 a.m. Central | Live on Zoom
Description:
Ever wondered what it’s really like to run a grant writing business? Join Spark the Fire founder Allison Jones, M.Ed., GPC, and a panel of successful independent grant writers for a candid, behind-the-scenes conversation about how to build and sustain a thriving business as a grant professional.
In this one-hour live webinar, you’ll hear what grant writing firms look for in hiring new grant writers, what it’s like to work with a team, whether you can keep your own clients on the side, and soft and hard skills for success.
Who It’s For:
Aspiring and current freelance grant writers, consultants, and anyone curious about the business side of grant writing.
Registration Includes:
✅ Access to the live session
✅ Replay with timestamped chapters and transcript
✅ List of shared resources from the panelists
Inside Grant Writing Businesses - November Edition
Thursday, November 6 | 10:00–11:00 a.m. Central | Live on Zoom
Description:
Ever wondered what it’s really like to run a grant writing business? Join Spark the Fire founder Allison Jones, M.Ed., GPC and a panel of successful independent grant writers for a candid, behind-the-scenes conversation about how to build and sustain a thriving business as a grant professional.
In this one-hour live webinar, you’ll hear how solopreneurs and small business owners manage clients, set pricing, balance workloads, and stay inspired in their work. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your freelance business to the next level, you’ll walk away with actionable insights and encouragement from people who’ve done it. This month’s webinar features Claire Honsinger of Good Horse Grants, Patricia Beaumont of Fitly Written, LLC, and Laura Gabel of Next Step Solutions.
You’ll Learn:
How experienced grant writers built their businesses from the ground up
Tips for pricing, client communication, and managing your time
What to expect when transitioning from employee to business owner
How to find purpose and sustainability as an independent professional
Who It’s For:
Aspiring and current freelance grant writers, consultants, and anyone curious about the business side of grant writing.
Registration Includes:
✅ Access to the live session
✅ Replay with timestamped chapters and transcript
✅ List of shared resources from the panelists
Price: $25
Inside Grant Firms - October Edition
Are you curious about what it’s like to work for a grant writing firm? Join us for this month’s Inside Grant Writing Firmswebinar on Thursday, October 2, from 10–11 am Central Time.
This session features three experienced firm owners:
Valerie A. Grant, GPC – Grant Consulting Services, LLC
Erin Hielkema – The Grant Plant
Dawn Grenier – Dawn Grenier Consulting
During the panel, you’ll learn what firms look for in candidates, how the application and interview process works, what day-to-day responsibilities look like, and the growth opportunities available in this career path.
The format includes:
Panel Introductions (30 min) – Each expert shares their background and insights.
Moderated Q&A (20 min) – Ask your questions about getting hired, positioning yourself as an ideal candidate, and client relationships.
Wrap-Up (10 min) – Closing thoughts plus information on Spark the Fire consultant support and referrals.
This webinar is perfect for new and aspiring grant writers who want to better understand the industry and how to stand out as a strong candidate.
Fall Certificate in Grant Writing Course
Certificate in Grant Writing Course
Tuesdays, 9/30 through 11/25, skip 10/28 and 11/11
Certificate in Grant Writing is a comprehensive course in grant writing and grants management that will give you the experience and confidence you need to become a grant professional.
This course includes live Zoom meetings that are one hour weekly on Tuesdays. Zoom login information is provided after you enroll. You may choose from two meeting times:
AFTERNOON: 10-11 HT, 11-12 ASK, 12-1 PT, 1-2 MT, 2-3 CT, 3-4 ET
EVENING: 3-4 HT, 4-5 ASK, 5-6 PT, 6-7 MT, 7-8 CT, 8-9 ET
Info Session for Certificate in Grant Writing Course
Are you interested in grant writing and want to learn about our upcoming Certificate in Grant Writing course? Ask questions and meet the class instructor, Allison Jones. Learn what grant writers really do, what skills you need to have, and how to get started as a grant writer.
Times are 12-12:45 and 5-5:45 PST.
This Info Session is hosted on Zoom. Please register in advance. We look forward to seeing you!
AI and Grant Writing – Smart, Ethical, and Practical Use
AI and Grant Writing – Smart, Ethical, and Practical Use
Discover how artificial intelligence can support and strengthen your grant writing practice. In this engaging webinar, we’ll explore the latest AI tools, discuss current use policies and the (in)effectiveness of AI detectors, and walk through examples of writing prompts that actually work. You'll learn practical, ethical ways to integrate AI into your workflow—saving time without sacrificing authenticity or impact. Perfect for grant writers looking to stay sharp, efficient, and ahead of the curve.
🧠 Learn about top AI tools
✅ Understand use policies and AI detectors
✍️ Get real writing prompts
💡 Walk away with practical tips to save time and write stronger grants
Whether you're new to AI or already experimenting, this session will give you tools to write with more confidence and efficiency.
📅 Don’t miss out—register now:
🔗 https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_IyHqhZLORKO_qjkch74Vcg#/registration
Insight Grant Writing Firms: Your Path From Graduate to Professional
I’m hosting a special session for my graduates and others interested in learning about careers with grant writing firms, and I would love for you to participate. The event will take place on Wednesday, August 20th, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Pacific. Panelists currently confirmed are Diane Leonard of DH Consulting, Angela Silva of CPIN, and Kyle Hamrast of the Ostara Group.
This is a chance to learn about the inner workings of grant firms, and more importantly, how to get hired. Investment is $25. Spark the Fire Graduates attend free!
Free for Graduates, $25 for Non-Graduates
Grants and Good Company
Grants and Good Company with Special Guest Allison Jones - August 13th
Join Spark the Fire and Instrumentl for an intimate evening designed specifically for Seattle's grant writing community! 🌟
We're bringing together grant professionals, development directors, nonprofit leaders, and fundraising experts for meaningful connections over great food. In our fast-paced grant world, it's rare to have dedicated time to step back, share insights, and build the relationships that make our work more rewarding.
This isn't about presentations, sales pitches, or formal networking - it's about creating genuine space for our community to connect. Whether you're looking to share strategies that have been working, discuss challenges you're facing, or simply enjoy conversation with people who truly understand the grant writing world, this evening is for you.
Come ready to meet fellow professionals, exchange ideas, learn from each other's experiences, and strengthen the bonds within Seattle's incredible nonprofit sector. We believe the best professional growth happens through authentic relationships and shared wisdom.
When: August 13th, 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM Where: Seattle RSVP Required
Looking forward to an evening of community, connection, and meaningful conversation! #GrantCommunity #SeattleNonprofits #CommunityBuilding
Summer Certificate in Grant Writing
Certificate in Grant Writing Course
Tuesday, July 8 - August 26, 2025
Certificate in Grant Writing is a comprehensive course in grant writing and grants management that will give you the experience and confidence you need to become a grant professional.
This course includes live Zoom meetings that are one hour weekly on Tuesdays. Zoom login information is provided after you enroll. You may choose from two meeting times:
AFTERNOON: 10-11 HT, 11-12 ASK, 12-1 PT, 1-2 MT, 2-3 CT, 3-4 ET
EVENING: 3-4 HT, 4-5 ASK, 5-6 PT, 6-7 MT, 7-8 CT, 8-9 ET