Mastering Grants workshop focuses on helping local organizations find funding

Join Siuslaw Vision and the Oregon Coast Visitors Association for Mastering Grants: From Finding Funds to Powerful Proposals, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 1 at the Driftwood Shores Conference Center in Florence.

Susy Lacer, GCP, presents on Finding Funding

“This year’s workshop expands on past success with new, hands-on learning opportunities, practical tools and timely insights – including how to use AI effectively and ethically in the grant writing process,” said Stephanie Sarles, executive director for Siuslaw Vision.

Designed for nonprofit professionals, board members, and community volunteers, this workshop will provide practical knowledge to help you develop competitive, ethical grant proposals and better understand what funders are looking for in a proposal.

“We’re excited to welcome Zack Martin, founder and owner of Tactical Adaptability Group, and AI expert, who will be leading a session on using AI in an effective and ethical way to support the grant writing process,” said Sarles. “We welcome back Susy Lacer, Grant Professional Certified, who will be leading a session on grant prospecting. Jesse Dolin of the Oregon Coast Visitors Association will invite us to ‘think like a funder,’ and will host a round table forum and Q&A session with our presenters.

Zack Martin, presents on Using AI to help with grant writing

This year’s event features a series of focused sessions, each including a presentation and time for questions, discussion and real-world application. Participants may bring their own tablets or laptops for the AI session if they want to get hands-on with the tools.

Participants are encouraged to bring questions, share experiences and engage with both presenters and peers. “Whether you are new to grant seeking or looking to strengthen your existing skills, you’ll leave with actionable strategies and greater confidence,” said Kate Harnedy, Siuslaw Vision’s outreach coordinator.

The workshop will include lunch and will be followed by a networking happy hour celebration from 3–4 p.m.

The cost for the workshop, including lunch and happy hour, is $25 for Siuslaw and Oregon Coast community members and $50 for those outside of the area. Scholarships for the workshop and reimbursements for child/elder care are available by emailing vision@siuslawvision.org. Registration is required and space is limited. For event details and to register, visit givebutter.com/mastering-grants-2026. For more information, email vision@siuslawvision.org, or leave a message at 541-590-2425.

About the organizers: Siuslaw Vision is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that convenes and connects individuals and organizations to improve quality of life in the Siuslaw region. The Oregon Coast Visitors Association promotes a healthy, collaborative tourism network along the Oregon Coast.

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