Mastering Grants Workshop Draws Strong Regional Participation, Positive Feedback

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – May 16, 2026
Mastering Grants workshop draws strong regional participation, positive feedback

FLORENCE, Ore. – Siuslaw Vision and the Oregon Coast Visitors Association recently hosted Mastering Grants: From Finding Funds to Powerful Proposals at the Driftwood Shores Resort and Conference Center, bringing together nonprofit professionals, volunteers, board members, and community leaders from across the Siuslaw region and Central Oregon Coast.

The workshop welcomed 45 attendees representing 30 different organizations and community groups from Florence, Deadwood, Dunes City, Gardiner, Yachats, Waldport, North Bend and Coos Bay. Participants gathered for a full day of practical learning, collaboration and networking focused on strengthening local grant writing capacity and improving access to funding opportunities.
Sessions throughout the day covered a range of topics, including ethical and effective uses of artificial intelligence in grant writing, grant-seeking strategies, tourism and outdoor recreation funding opportunities. The participants also received insights into what funders and grant reviewers look for in successful proposals.

Presenters included Zack Martin of Tactical Adaptability Group, Susy Lacer, Grant Professional Certified, Miles Phillips with Oregon Sea Grant and Oregon State University Extension, and Stephanie Sarles of Siuslaw Vision.

Attendees shared appreciation for the workshop, the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with presenters, and the chance to connect with others working to support community projects throughout the region.

“The grant writing workshop was very informative, packed full of useful information with clear ideas and direction,” said workshop attendee, Mary Sharpe McNutt. “I now feel much better equipped to proceed with writing grant applications.”

The event also highlighted the growing interest in collaborative grant seeking and capacity building among organizations serving coastal communities. Organizers hope the tools, strategies, and connections gained during the workshop will help support future projects and funding success across the Siuslaw region and beyond.

Siuslaw Vision is a nonprofit organization that convenes, catalyzes and connects individuals and organizations who want to improve quality of life for people living in the Siuslaw region. We help people implement locally owned solutions that address community-identified goals. Learn more at: siuslawvision.org.

The Oregon Coast Visitors Association is a coast-wide organization dedicated to creating an enriched experience for all. Through practices focused on stewardship, inclusion and cultural respect, we inspire visitors and support local industry by promoting a healthy, collaborative tourism network. Learn more at: visittheoregoncoast.com