Dogwood Webinar Series
Next Session:
Telling the Story of Western North Carolina: How to Write a Compelling Need Section
August 19, 2026 at 12 p.m.
Our Next-Level Funding webinar series provides expert insights on seeking and securing grant funding beyond Dogwood.
The next session, ” Telling the Story of Western North Carolina: How to Write a Compelling Need Section,” will be held on August 19, 2026 at noon.
Purpose: As part of Southern Appalachia, Western North Carolina (WNC) sits at the juncture of historical, cultural, geographic, and economic factors unique to the region. These characteristics shape the challenges communities face and the strengths they bring to addressing them. Most recently, recovery from Hurricane Helene has further highlighted both the vulnerabilities and resilience of WNC communities. Over our years of experience working with WNC nonprofits, Innovative Funding Partners has found that discussing the unique story of the region is key to developing proposals that stand out competitively. This training will offer an in-depth look at how to craft a compelling Needs section that uses data and narrative to bring WNC’s story to life.
Goal: Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of why compelling storytelling is critical to standing out in today’s highly competitive funding environment. Through an exploration of WNC’s unique history, culture, and socioeconomic landscape, presenters will examine key themes, including economic transitions following the decline of traditional industries, the enduring effects of the opioid crisis, and Appalachian cultural values that foster both resilience and challenges related to health, well-being, and opportunity. Key sources of data and information that can strengthen these narratives will also be explored. Finally, presenters will share examples from successful grant proposals that effectively integrate storytelling and data to create compelling Need sections.
Innovative Funding Partners (IFP) is a nationally recognized grants consulting firm highly regarded for an impressive overall grant success rate of 75%. Well known for their expertise in federal and other government grant writing, this success is based not only on technical expertise but also on a foundational relationship-building approach. IFP’s team of over 20 highly experienced consultants is passionate about helping organizations meet the unique needs of their local communities and better serve their constituents by seeking and securing grant funding.
Carrie Davis is an experienced grant writer and project manager with a consistent track record of success working with organizations across diverse sectors and geographies. She provides project oversight, facilitation, and coordination at all levels of grant development. Carrie has successful experience with foundation, corporate and government grants including DOL, HRSA, SAMHSA, CDC, DOE, USDA and more.
Susannah Williams is a grant writer with a proven track record of securing federal and foundation grants across multiple sectors, including health care, workforce development, and education. She has extensive experience in supporting clients’ project design and development to meet complex grant requirements. Susannah has written multiple successful proposals for CDC, HRSA, DOJ, and DOL, among others.
