Program Overview

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Program Overview

The Grant Writing Certificate program provides invaluable benefits for individuals and organizations seeking to secure funding for projects, programs, or initiatives. These courses are designed to offer practical, hands-on training that equips learners with the skills and knowledge needed to craft compelling grant proposals and navigate the complex world of funding opportunities.

A primary advantage of these courses is their focus on real-world application. Learners will learn how to identify appropriate funding sources, whether from government agencies, private foundations, or corporate sponsors. They will also gain expertise in understanding grant guidelines and tailoring proposals to meet funders' specific requirements.

Certificate Requirements

• 4 core courses
• 2 electives
• 2 online writing courses

Program Description

Grant writing requires clarity, precision, and persuasive storytelling, which are emphasized throughout these non-credit courses. Learners are taught how to articulate their organization's mission, goals, and impact in a way that resonates with funders.

Learners will also learn how to create detailed budgets that align with their project goals while demonstrating fiscal responsibility to potential funders.

For professionals, these courses enhance career prospects by providing specialized skills that are highly valued in nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, healthcare systems, and more.

Overall, learners will be empowered to successfully secure funding and drive meaningful change in their community.

Program Courses and Electives

Core courses are offered, with 2026 courses to be announced in early December.

Meet Your Instructors

Terrence Carter

Terrence Carter is the vice president of workforce and economic development for the Knoxville Area Urban League, overseeing a $3.4 million loan program and preparing grants and investment proposals. He has more than 25 years of experience in community, economic, and business development.

Carter has worked for Knoxville's Community Development Corporation (KCDC) and has served as executive director for the Partnership for Neighborhood Improvement. He earned a bachelor's degree in public administration from the University of Tennessee and a master's degree from Baruch College in New York City.

Carter is a results-oriented leader with demonstrated initiative and creativity.

Beth Meko

Beth Meko is a lecturer in the School of Information Sciences at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and a grant writer/information specialist for the Center for Information and Communication Studies at the UT College of Communication and Information (CCI). She assists faculty in the four colleges of the CCI with developing, editing, and submitting grant proposals to government agencies and private foundations.

She earned a B.A. degree in English at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte and an M.S. degree in information science at the University of Tennessee.

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