GrantTalk
GrantTalk: Listen to Grant Success Stories and Grant Funders GrantTalk explores the positive impact grants have on people, communities, and programs. We talk to nonprofit leaders, business executives, and development directors who have navigated the grant application process, sharing their challenges and triumphs. Our podcast also features conversations with a variety of funding sources (grantmakers), offering insights into what they look for in successful grant applications. Join us on GrantTalk to hear inspiring stories and gain valuable tips for making a difference through grants.
Episodes

Tuesday Oct 22, 2024
Tuesday Oct 22, 2024
In Episode 27, host Libby Hikind sits down with Laurel Meleski from Red Rover to explore how this national nonprofit is helping both people and animals through their specialized grant programs.
Tune in for insights on:
🐾 Grants for Domestic Violence Victims and Their Pets: How Red Rover’s Urgent Care and Safe Escape grants provide vital support, helping pet owners in crisis with veterinary care and boarding.
🏠 Making Shelters Pet-Friendly: Learn about Red Rover’s State Housing grant and their goal to make 25% of domestic violence shelters pet-friendly by 2025.
⏱️ Grant Application Tips & Fast Responses: Practical advice on submitting clear, concise applications and how Red Rover ensures quick responses to those in need.
🌪️ Disaster Relief for Animals: Discover how Red Rover Responders set up temporary shelters during natural disasters, giving pet owners peace of mind during emergencies.
🔗 Stay ConnectedSubscribe to the GrantWatch YouTube channel for more expert advice on grant writing, nonprofit funding, and insights on programs like Red Rover’s!
Thank you, Laurel Meleski and Red Rover, for your incredible work supporting both pets and their people! ❤️🐶
#granttalk #libbyhikind #laurelmeleski #redrover #domesticviolencegrants #safeescapegrant #urgentcaregrant #petfriendlyshelters #statehousinggrant #disasterresponseforanimals #grantsfornonprofits #grantfunding #animalrescuegrants #grantwriting #nonprofitfunding #grantapplications #fundingfornonprofits #grantwriter #nonprofitorganizations #grantwritingtips

Monday Oct 14, 2024
Monday Oct 14, 2024
In Episode 26, host Libby Hikind sits down with Karin Beyer to discuss Otsego Community Foundation's innovative approach to grantmaking, Donor-Advised Funds, funding coalitions.Tune in for insights on:
💡 Collaborative Grantmaking: How Otsego Community Foundation partners with other funders to streamline the grant process, allowing nonprofits to secure partial funding from multiple sources.
🤝 Building Local Funder Coalitions: Strengthening partnerships with organizations like United Way, Rotary Club, and Kiwanis Club to address community needs more effectively.
📋 Grant Application Process & Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs): Tips on building relationships with funders, utilizing DAFs, and engaging with the community to secure long-term funding.🔗 Stay ConnectedSubscribe to the GrantWatch YouTube channel for more expert insights and to stay updated on grant opportunities like these!
Thank you, Karin Beyer and Otsego Community Foundation for your amazing support of Michigan Nonprofits! ❤️ ❤️

Friday Sep 27, 2024
Friday Sep 27, 2024
🎙️ GrantTalk Episode 25 is Now Live!Join host Libby Hikind, founder and CEO of GrantWatch, as she interviews Samantha Walters, Senior Strategist at Colocation America. In this episode, Samantha explains how Colocation America, unlike traditional foundations or government agencies, actively supports STEM education through their STEM Innovation Grants.
🌟 Why STEM MattersSamantha discusses the critical role STEM education plays in building essential skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as the importance of integrating soft skills to encourage innovation and problem-solving.
💡 About the STEM Innovation GrantsThese grants, aimed at K-12 nonprofit schools, school districts, libraries, and museums, provide opportunities to underserved communities. Grants range from $1,500 to $7,500, supporting unique STEM learning experiences.
📅 Grant Application ProcessLearn all about the application process, deadlines, and how Colocation America’s "Lunch and Learn" sessions help applicants prepare successful proposals. Samantha shares insider tips on creating strong applications.
🔗 Stay ConnectedSubscribe to the GrantWatch YouTube channel for more expert insights and to stay updated on grant opportunities like these!
Thank you, Samantha Walters, for your amazing work in advancing STEM education and inspiring the next generation!
#GrantTalk #LibbyHikind #SamanthaWalters #ColocationAmerica #STEMGrants #STEMEducation #STEMInnovation #K12Schools #UnderservedCommunities #GrantApplicationTips #STEMFunding #CorporateGiving

Wednesday Sep 18, 2024
Wednesday Sep 18, 2024
📚 In this episode of GrantTalk, we’re excited to welcome Karren Timmermans, President and Executive Director of The Pilcrow Foundation, alongside Libby Hikind, Founder and CEO of GrantWatch.com. Since 2013, The Pilcrow Foundation has been a key supporter of rural libraries, offering in-kind donations of new hardcover children's books. Karren shares her insights on how these grants for rural libraries foster community involvement and help libraries build stronger relationships with their patrons.
🔑 Key moments in this episode:
✨ Making an Impact: Learn how The Pilcrow Foundation’s matching grant program helps rural libraries grow their collections with high-quality children’s books by doubling local fundraising efforts.
📅 Grant Timelines You Need to Know: Stay informed on the biannual grant cycles with deadlines on April 1 and October 1, giving your library the best opportunity to secure funding.
🌪️ Rebuilding Through Disaster Relief: Hear about special grants that support rural libraries recovering from natural disasters and the significant impact these grants have on the communities they serve.
🎉 Celebrating Success Together: Discover how rural libraries bring their communities together by hosting events that celebrate their grant awards, fostering engagement and local pride.
📖 Book Selection Process: Explore the curated list of over 700 children’s books that libraries can choose from, ensuring a rich variety of reading materials for young audiences.
🔮 Future of the Pilcrow Foundation: Karren reveals exciting plans for the foundation’s future, especially in continuing to support rural libraries in the face of natural disasters.
Explore more about GrantWatch:https://www.grantwatch.com/https://www.grantwatch.com/bookhttps://www.grantwatch.com/granttalk/
Find out more about Karren Timmermans and The Pilcrow Foundation:Pilcrow Foundation — https://www.pilcrowfoundation.org/Pilcrow Foundation Facebook —https://www.facebook.com/thepilcrowfoundation
Find available grants at:https://www.grantwatch.com/grant-search.php
Subscribe to GrantTalk for more expert advice on how to enhance your grant applications and learn from successful foundations and grant recipients.
#rurallibraries #childrensbooks #disasterreliefgrants #grantopportunities #fundraising #pilcrowfoundation #communityinvolvement #libraryfunding #grantwriting #granttalkpodcast #grantwatch #grantfunding #nonprofitgrants #libraryevents #bookgrants #rurallibrarysupport

Thursday Sep 12, 2024
Thursday Sep 12, 2024
GrantTalk is back with Libby Hikind, featuring Helena Kosoff, a seasoned grant writer and consultant, and founding member of the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of the Grant Professionals Association (GPA). Helena shares her expert tips on grant writing and reviewing, covering key topics like:
GPA Overview: Learn about the GPA’s role in supporting grant writers through conferences and meetings.
Grant Reviewing Tips: Insights on what makes a successful grant application and the importance of precise responses.
Networking and Collaboration: Discover how joining grant writing communities can provide support and fresh perspectives.
Planning and Preparation: Strategies for anticipating funding cycles and crafting strong proposals.
Sustainability: Tips on ensuring project longevity and leveraging resources like GrantWatch for ongoing support.
Ethics and Compensation: Understand why commission-based pay is unethical and the benefits of upfront compensation.
Security Grants: Hear about Helena’s success in securing grants for community safety and the role of mini-grants in securing additional funding.
Subscribe to GrantTalk for more expert advice on enhancing your grant applications and building successful grant writing practices.
Connect with Us:
GrantWatch:
https://www.grantwatch.com/
https://www.grantwatch.com/granttalk/
https://www.grantwatch.com/book
Helena's Noteworthy Foundations and Partnerships:
Grant Professionals Association (GPA) - https://grantprofessionals.org/
Grant Professionals Association’s Mid-Atlantic Chapter - https://grantprofessionals.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1828364&group=
Rowan University - https://www.rowan.edu/
Whole Foods Foundation - https://www.wholefoodsmarketfoundation.org/
Homeland Security - https://www.dhs.gov/dhs-grants
State Department of Education - https://www.nj.gov/education/

Friday Sep 06, 2024
Friday Sep 06, 2024
In this episode of GrantTalk, we're joined by Brenda Swan, Director of Grants and Operations at the St. Johns County Cultural Council. Brenda shares how the council plays a pivotal role in fostering the growth of arts, culture, and heritage in St. Johns County through strategic grant programs.
What You’ll Learn:
Supporting Arts, Culture, and Heritage:Explore how the St. Johns Cultural Council collaborates with the Tourism Development Council and leverages state resources, such as revenue from Florida's specialty license plate sales, to fund various projects. Brenda details several grants, including the Tourist Development Council grant, which offers up to $50,000, and the State of the Arts grant, designed to support smaller organizations and individual artists.
GrantWatch's Role in Amplifying Opportunities:Learn how GrantWatch has played a crucial role in enhancing the visibility of these grant programs, leading to an increase in applications. Brenda highlights successful projects funded by these grants, from local music festivals to educational theater programs, and offers tips for maximizing your chances of securing funding.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Arts Funding:Discover the council's ongoing efforts to secure additional funding from the National Endowment for the Arts and how these funds are being used to support smaller arts organizations. Brenda also shares valuable advice for grant seekers, emphasizing the importance of effectively aligning your project with grant criteria and managing funds.
Final Thoughts:
Libby Hikind, Founder and CEO of GrantWatch, underscores the significance of subscribing to the GrantWatch YouTube channel and encourages viewers to take full advantage of the opportunities provided by the St. Johns Cultural Council and the many grants available on GrantWatch.com.
👉 Don’t miss this episode filled with expert advice and funding opportunities! Be sure to subscribe, like, comment, and share to support the arts community.
Connect with Us:
GrantWatch:
https://www.grantwatch.com/
https://www.grantwatch.com/granttalk/
https://www.grantwatch.com/book
St. Johns Cultural Council:
Home - St. Johns Cultural Council (stjohnsculture.com)
https://www.historiccoastculture.com/
https://www.historiccoastculture.com/...
#GrantTalk #StJohnsCulturalCouncil #ArtsFunding #GrantOpportunities #CulturalGrants #NonprofitSupport #TourismDevelopment #StateOfTheArts #CommunityImpact #GrantWatchSuccess #ArtsAndCulture #HeritagePreservation #GrantWriting #GrantSuccess #FloridaArts #CulturalHeritage #NationalEndowmentForTheArts #SmallBizGrants #ArtistsSupport #NonprofitGrowth #TourismGrants #CulturalCouncil #GrantFunding

Tuesday Aug 27, 2024
Tuesday Aug 27, 2024
In this episode of GrantTalk, we're joined by Traci Lanier, Vice President at 10,000 Degrees, an organization passionately committed to closing the educational opportunity gap for low-income students. Traci shares the remarkable journey of their grant writing success and how it has fueled their mission to guide students from high school through college and beyond.
What You’ll Learn:
10,000 Degrees and a Vision for Change: Explore how this 40-year-old organization is revolutionizing college access and financial aid guidance for students in the San Francisco Bay Area. Traci highlights the impact of their near-peer mentorship model in ensuring students’ success in higher education.
GrantWatch Success Story: Discover how 10,000 Degrees utilized GrantWatch to secure $85,000 from four grants, enabling them to expand their programs and reach more students.
Looking Ahead: Hear Traci’s vision for the future of 10,000 Degrees, including how they plan to support even more students through their nonprofit education initiatives. Learn how you can contribute to their mission at 10000degrees.org.
Final Thoughts: Libby Hikind, Founder and CEO of GrantWatch, wraps up the episode with insights on the importance of showcasing grant successes to secure future funding.
👉 Tune in to this inspiring episode! Be sure to subscribe, rate, and share to support the incredible work being done through grants.
Connect with Us:
GrantWatch:
https://www.grantwatch.com/
https://www.grantwatch.com/granttalk/
https://www.grantwatch.com/book
10,000 Degrees:
https://10000degrees.org/
https://10000degrees.org/about-us/staff/
#GrantTalk #10000Degrees #EducationalEquity #GrantSuccess #MentorshipMatters #CollegeBound #NonprofitSupport #GrantWriting #CommunityImpact #GrantWatchSuccess #EducationalOpportunity #LowIncomeStudents #CollegeScholarships #FinancialAid #NearPeerMentorship #NonprofitEducation #CollegeAccess #StudentSupport #SanFranciscoBayArea #GrantFunding #EducationNonprofit

Thursday Aug 22, 2024
Thursday Aug 22, 2024
Welcome to GrantTalk! 🌟 In this episode, Libby Hikind, Founder and CEO of GrantWatch, and author of The Queen of Grants, sits down with Katie Reusch from YSA Youth Service America to explore the journey of a grant after submission and the various grants available to support youth and youth programming. 🎓
Episode Highlights:
YSA's Mission: Discover how YSA engages youth in meaningful service projects as volunteers, designers, and leaders, connecting them with grants and resources. 🌍
Key Service Days: Learn about significant service days like 9/11 Day, MLK Day, and Global Youth Service Day, and how they drive youth involvement in community service. 🗓️
Inspiring Youth-Led Projects: Hear about a peer mentoring program started by a young student and other inspiring youth-led initiatives. 🌟
Grant Application Tips: Get practical advice on the application process, eligibility criteria, and tips for successful grant applications. ✍️
Whether you're a young aspiring grant writer or an organization looking to support youth service, this episode offers valuable information and motivation. 💡
Tune in to this enlightening conversation on youth empowerment and the transformative power of grants! 🎧
Connect with us:
GrantWatch: https://www.grantwatch.com/
Podcast: https://www.grantwatch.com/granttalk/
Book: https://www.grantwatch.com/book
Subscribe to GrantTalk for more insights and expert discussions on YouTube, Apple, iHeart, and Spotify 🎧. Hit the subscribe button and never miss an episode! 📲🔔
#GrantTalk #YouthGrants #Nonprofits #YouthEmpowerment #CommunityService #GrantWriting
Welcome to GrantTalk! 🌟 In this episode, Libby Hikind, Founder and CEO of GrantWatch, and author of The Queen of Grants, sits down with Katie Reich from YSA (Youth Service America) to explore the journey of a grant after submission and the various grants available to support youth and youth programming. 🎓
Episode Highlights:
YSA's Mission: Discover how YSA engages youth in meaningful service projects as volunteers, designers, and leaders, connecting them with grants and resources. 🌍
Key Service Days: Learn about significant service days like 9/11 Day, MLK Day, and Global Youth Service Day, and how they drive youth involvement in community service. 🗓️
Storytelling & Recognition: Understand the importance of storytelling and recognition in youth service and how these elements can enhance the impact of projects. 📖
Inspiring Youth-Led Projects: Hear about a peer mentoring program started by a young student and other inspiring youth-led initiatives. 🌟
Grant Application Tips: Get practical advice on the application process, eligibility criteria, and tips for successful grant applications. ✍️
Whether you're a young aspiring grant writer or an organization looking to support youth service, this episode offers valuable information and motivation. 💡
Tune in to this enlightening conversation on youth empowerment and the transformative power of grants! 🎧
Connect with us:
GrantWatch: https://www.grantwatch.com/
Podcast: https://www.grantwatch.com/granttalk/
Book: https://www.grantwatch.com/book
Subscribe to GrantTalk for more insights and expert discussions on YouTube, Apple, iHeart, and Spotify 🎧. Hit the subscribe button and never miss an episode! 📲🔔
#GrantTalk #YouthGrants #Nonprofits #YouthEmpowerment #CommunityService #GrantWriting #KatieReusch #YouthServiceAmericaYSA #youthgrants #empoweringyoungleaders #communitychange #financialbacking #RooseveltCentennialYouthProject #youthengagement #grantsforyoungchangemakers #positiveImpact #leadershipdevelopment #communityservice #youthempowerment #socialchange #fundingopportunities #youthledinitiativegrantfunding #civicengagement #socialresponsibility #youngleaders #nationalorganization #positivechange #grantresources #youthprograms #communitydevelopment

Thursday Aug 15, 2024
Thursday Aug 15, 2024
Welcome to GrantTalk! 🌟 In this episode, Libby Hikind, Founder and CEO of GrantWatch, and author of The Queen of Grants, is joined by Matthew Berkowitz, a Business Advisor from G&A Partners. Together, they explore how Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs) can transform HR management for nonprofits and small businesses. 🛠️
Episode Highlights:
Understanding PEOs: Discover how PEOs streamline HR, payroll, and employee benefits, boosting business efficiency and compliance.
Compliance and Risk Management: Learn strategies to stay compliant with state laws, especially in the era of remote work.
Optimizing Operations: See how integrating payroll and HR with a PEO can reduce administrative burdens and enhance performance.
Expert Advice on Choosing a PEO: Get tips on selecting the right PEO, focusing on certifications, client satisfaction, and more.
Tune in to empower your nonprofit or small business with strategic HR solutions! 🎧
Connect with us:
GrantWatch: https://www.grantwatch.com/
Podcast: https://www.grantwatch.com/granttalk/
Book: https://www.grantwatch.com/book
Subscribe to GrantTalk for more insights and expert discussions on YouTube, Apple, iHeart, and Spotify 🎧. Hit the subscribe button and never miss an episode! 📲🔔
Contact Matthew Berkowitz:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/msberkowitz/
Email: Mberkowitz@gnapartners.com
Phone: (281) 657-4995
#GrantTalk #PEO #Nonprofits #SmallBusiness #HRCompliance #BusinessGrowth

Tuesday Aug 06, 2024
Tuesday Aug 06, 2024
Welcome to GrantTalk! In this episode, host Libby Hikind, Founder and CEO of GrantWatch 🌟 and author of The Queen of Grants, is joined by Daniel McNeal, Director of Quality of Life Grants at the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation. 🦸♂️
Episode Highlights:
Inside the World of Grants 🏆
Libby and Daniel explore the grant application process and the foundation's impactful mission to support those living with paralysis. Discover how the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, established in 1982 in honor of the iconic actor, is transforming lives through both groundbreaking research and immediate aid. 🌟
Grant Evaluation Process 🔍
Explore how the foundation’s rigorous evaluation process ensures that only the most innovative and impactful projects receive support. From initial assessments to expert reviews, learn about their commitment to transparency and fairness.
Spotlight on Quality of Life Grants ⛵
Join us as we discuss how Chesapeake Region Accessible Boating (CRAB) in Annapolis, MD, received a grant to provide specialized sailing equipment. This initiative promotes independence and offers unique recreational opportunities for individuals with paralysis.
Tips for a Stellar Grant Application 📑
Daniel shares his top tips for crafting an outstanding grant application. Understand why following guidelines and meticulous preparation are essential for success in the grant process.
Discover the Impact 💬
Get inspired by the foundation’s heroic work and learn how strategic preparation and dedication to your cause can elevate your grant-seeking efforts to new heights.
Thank you for tuning in! Keep your cape on for more expert advice and inspiring stories in our next episode. 🌟
"Faster than a speeding bullet, more powerful than a locomotive, able to leap tall buildings in a single bound. Look up in the sky! It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s Superman!" — Jay Morton, Adventures of Superman radio show
Connect with Us:
Website: GrantWatch 🌐
Email: info@grantwatch.com ✉️
Subscribe to GrantTalk for more insights and expert discussions on YouTube, Apple, iHeart, and Spotify 🎧. Hit the subscribe button and never miss an episode! 📲🔔