Professional Begging, But Make It Strategic

Are your grant win rates going down? Are you at a loss of how to break into new funders? Do you loathe talking to funders? Don't worry, you're not alone.

Fundraising often feels like professional begging, especially when you're under-resourced or self-taught. What if asking for money wasn’t something to cringe about and instead became a confident and strategic part of your work?

Professional Begging, But Make It Strategic is a real-talk, no fluff workshop that reframes fundraising as relationship-building. We’ll unpack the emotional baggage around “the ask,” explore ethical strategies for getting resourced, and give you practical tools to raise money without losing your voice, values, or sanity.

Your guide is Melody Hernandez, award-winning grant writer and founder of Root Reach Rise Inc., who has helped nonprofits and artists secure nearly $40 million in grant funding — much of it first-time support for small and mid-sized organizations. Melody brings decades of real-world experience and will share what actually works to get funding flowing where it’s needed most.

Who Should Attend

This workshop is ideal for nonprofit staff, program managers, artists, emerging grant writers and consultants, and anyone interested in grant work — whether you’re brand new or looking to refresh your skills.

Transportation

Public Transit:Trellis is conveniently located near the Powell Street BART and MUNI station, and within a block of several bus lines 5, 6, 7, 9, 14, 14R, 21, 31, and 66.

Parking:Nearby garages include:

• 5th & Mission Parking Garage
• Ellis O’Farrell Garage (Ellis Street, between Powell and Stockton)
• Union Square Garage (off Geary Street, between Powell and Stockton)
• Jessie Street Garage (entrance off 3rd Street, before crossing Market)

Join us and learn how to make funder cultivation accessible, effective, and even enjoyable. Reserve your spot today and take your next step toward grant success!

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