Next session
Date: Wednesday 18 February 2026
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm AEDT
Location: Online, via Zoom
Cost: FREE (supported by VMA funding)
Training delivered by Cochrane Research Solutions
This workshop provides a practical overview, tips, and cautions for volunteer leaders navigating the complexity of grant searching and application processes. It is intended for those with limited experience, as well as experienced grant writers in NFP organisations who are seeking to review or share their practices.
The online workshop is designed to build an understanding of the entire grants cycle (from getting started through to the acquittal process) and the funder’s perspective. It aims to build confidence in grant searching, writing, and decision making to increase the likelihood of successful applications and positive impact.
Topics covered
- Overview of the grants cycle
- Getting started and grant searching
- Preparing for grant writing
- Auspicing and partnering
- Writing and submitting a grant application
- Securing a grant and implications
- Implementing, tracking, and reporting
- Evaluation, acquittal, and lessons learned
Meet the trainer
Dr Robyn Cochrane
Dr Robyn Cochrane
Consultant – Trainer, Researcher, and Writer
Following an extensive career in the Victorian local government, vocational education and training, and higher education sectors, Robyn created Cochrane Research Solutions in 2013 and Ignite Community in 2025. Robyn is committed to championing community voice in decision-making, and passionate about building the capacity of volunteers and NFP organisations as they are the heart of inclusive, cohesive and resilient communities.
Robyn is a facilitator, researcher, writer, and mentor and she designs practical tools, training, and strategic guidance for NFP organisations. Robyn has volunteered for most of her adult life and undertaken community leadership roles within community banking, education, service, and sports organisations. Robyn is a founding member of the Engagement Institute Research Working Group and joined Volunteering Victoria’s SOVR Action Group in 2025. She was awarded City of Kingston Outstanding Citizen of the Year in 2022 and has published articles in professional and academic journals.
Register
Registrations full? Contact [email protected] to be added to the waiting list.
