CNNCTS Hosts First Grant Writing Training
- CNNCTS
- Jan 14
- 2 min read
The Collaborative of Native Nations for Climate Transformation and Stewardship (CNNCTS) hosted a grant writing training cohort for CNNCTS members, Tribes, and Tribal organizations in partnership with Writing for Green and the Center for Community Energy and Environmental Justice (CCEEJ). Continue reading to learn more!
In partnership with Writing for Green and the Center for Community Energy and Environmental Justice (CCEEJ), the Collaborative of Native Nations for Climate Transformation and Stewardship (CNNCTS) hosted its first-ever 12-week grant writing training cohort for CNNCTS members, Tribes, and Tribal organizations. Whether new to grant writing or an experienced writer, the course is designed to help participants develop and strengthen a wide range of skills for effective grant writing.
In the training, 30 participants engaged in interactive modules covering key elements of the grant writing process—such as understanding a Request for Applications (RFA), developing robust budgets, building evaluation plans, and communicating effectively with funders. Participants also received individualized instructor support, feedback on assignments, and 1-on-1 office hour sessions, creating a supportive environment that encouraged learning, collaboration, and skill building.
Based on participant feedback, the training showed significant growth in grant writing confidence and capacity. Before the course, participants rated their confidence in grant writing at an average of 1.5 out of 5, which increased to 3.8 out of 5 after completion—reflecting a 145% improvement. Participants also found the training highly relevant to their work, rating the course content 4.5 out of 5 in meeting their organizational needs.
Testimonials from participants reflected both professional growth and personal transformation:
“The training was an incredibly helpful tool for developing new grant writing skills and sharpening ones that may have gotten a little dusty….the training provided an important look into the grant writing process as a whole that benefits the entire team.”
“I was assigned to write a federal grant for our department’s largest project, and this class guided me through the process and details…We submitted the application with much more confidence than when I started, knowing that our story was appealing, organized, and supported.”
“Participating in the training was a transformative experience that deepened my understanding of grant writing within the context of Tribal and community-centered initiatives. From the outset, the coach fostered a welcoming and collaborative environment, encouraging participants to introduce themselves and share their goals for the training. Throughout the program, I appreciated the emphasis on real-world applications.”
“Each session left me feeling energized and better equipped to pursue funding opportunities that directly support my Tribal community’s goals…It felt like more than professional development. It felt like a real opportunity to initiate change within my community.”
The CNNCTS team congratulates all the participants who completed the program. Special thanks to Writing for Green for helping provide this resource to our network!
Learn more about the Collaborative for Native Nations for Climate Transformation and Stewardship (CNNCTS) at cnncts.org.
