Grant Writer & Fundraiser Michelle Herrewynen
In this episode of ChoirSuccess, we sit down with Michelle Herrewynen, a professional grant writer who has raised millions of dollars for choirs and other arts organizations.
Michelle Herrewynen is a professional grant writer who has raised millions of dollars for choirs and choruses. In today’s episode of ChoirSuccess, Michelle takes us through the pros and cons of securing funding from national arts councils, state and provincial agencies as well as lesser known sources of funding like lotteries, foundations and local municipal grants. She shares the secret of how to access grant databases that usually cost $1,200 a year for free.
Michelle explains the difference between categories of grants and which are the most desirable for your organization. She reveals the importance of nurturing relationships with program officers and the compelling story elements that need to be in place to increase your chances of securing funding. She also shares a little-known deal-breaker when writing a grant application!
Michelle has had a long and successful career as a fundraiser. She explains her strategies for attracting high-value donors and turning them into superfans who are passionate about your organization. She talks about the challenges of balancing the interests of donors with the realities of the marketplace - including the new priorities of granting agencies. Finally, she clarifies the role of professional grant writers and how to compensate them.
The opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests and contributors. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of ChoirGenius Inc.