Unlock New Skills in Just Two Days!

Thursday, August 6th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday, August 7th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Participants will learn how to identify funding opportunities, craft persuasive narratives, and align proposals with funder priorities. Through hands-on exercises and expert guidance, participants will gain practical tools to improve their grant writing success and secure vital resources for their organizations

Meet Your Expert Speakers

Managing Consultant M. Leslie Palmer

With decades of for-profit and nonprofit experience, Leslie launched her own practice to share expertise, collaborate with peers, and strengthen San Antonio’s nonprofit community. Her background spans fundraising, board development, capacity building, change management, communications, collaboration, marketing, and strategic planning. She has served on numerous boards. Originally from Newport, RI, Leslie is a Villanova University graduate with three adult children, a daughter-in-law, two grandsons, and a rescued dog.

Senior Consultant Denise E. Bennett

Denise brings over 35 years of experience across medical, banking, and social services. Her financial expertise and passion for writing shaped a successful career in grant writing and nonprofit fundraising. She has led fund development, grant management, and operations for diverse organizations, recognized as a strategic thinker and collaborator. A graduate of Belmont University with an MBA from Keller School of Management, Denise combines innovation with dedication to strengthening nonprofits.

Why Join Our two-day Certificate?

Certificate Objectives

  • Understand the Grant Funding Landscape
  • Enhance Grant Research Skills
  • Develop Effective Proposal Writing Techniques
  • Align Proposals with Funder Priorities
  • Master the Art of Budgeting for Grants
  • Strengthen Collaboration for Grant Success.
  • Learn Submission Best Practices 
  • Build Confidence in Grant Reporting and Stewardship

Key Information

Who Should Take This Program and What to Expect:

  • This workshop equips nonprofit professionals with the skills to research, write, and submit compelling grant proposals to government agencies and private foundations.
  • Day 1 will have a total of six hours of classroom time.
  • Day 2 will have a total of six hours of classroom time. 
  • Refreshments and a box lunch will be provided on both days. 
  • Participants are encouraged to bring their laptop or tablet.
  • Participants will receive an e-certificate 7-10 business days after completing the program.


Before You Checkout: Don't Miss These Savings!

Members enjoy greater savings, and funding may be available.

  • Membership Discount

    Members are eligible to use their discount benefits for the course. Please reach out to [email protected] to obtain your discount code before enrolling!

  • Supporting Funds

    Inquire with the Learning & Development team to see if you are eligible for supporting funds at [email protected].

Don't Miss Out!

Registration closes on July 10, 2026.

Team Up or Give Back: Group & Gift Options Available

  • Take the Lead

    Manage seats, register your group, and make it happen!

  • The Gift of Learning

    Inspire someone’s growth by sending a course as a gift!

Interested in another course?

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Thank You

San Antonio Area Foundation Cancellation & Refund Policy

  • If a Course Is Cancelled or Postponed by the Area Foundation

    If a workshop or class is unexpectedly cancelled or postponed by the Area Foundation, a refund or credit toward another workshop or class will be issued.

  • If You Can’t Attend and Want to Send a Substitute

    If you are unable to attend a workshop or class, you may send a substitute in your place. Please contact the Learning and Development team at [email protected] in advance and provide their information so we can complete their enrollment.

  • Refund Policy for Cancellations by Registrants

    If you are unable to attend and would like a refund, please notify the Learning and Development team at [email protected]. All refunds are subject to a $15 administrative fee. Refunds are not available within 72 hours of the course start time.

Connect with the San Antonio Area Foundation

  • Learning and Development

    Please notify us at [email protected] if you have any unique accommodation needs.