Next session
Date: Tuesday 23 June 2026
Time: 1:00pm – 3:00pm AEST
Location: Online, via Zoom
Cost: FREE (supported by VMA funding)
Training delivered by Ignite Community
This online workshop provides a practical overview, tips, and tools to support individuals from volunteer-involving organisations who are navigating the complexity of searching for grants and writing a successful application.
The workshop will assist participants to identify a range of feasible ideas for grant funding, locate prospective funders, and write a compelling grant application. We will explore the use of AI and examine two factors critical to success – understanding the funder perspective and grant criteria.
This workshop will be interactive and experiential. It aims to broaden understanding of the breadth of grant funding opportunities and build confidence in grant searching and writing a successful application.
Participants will receive a fill-in workbook to support the writing of a new application and build their own strategy for grant writing.
Who should attend?
This session is intended for participants with limited experience, as well as experienced grant writers who are seeking to review their practices and exchange ideas.
Topics covered
- Planning for success
- Preparing for grant writing
- Writing a compelling application and pitfalls to avoid
- Case study: Building a grant strategy for a local footy club
- Presenting your pitch
Meet the trainer
Dr Robyn Cochrane
Dr Robyn Cochrane (Ignite Community)
Consultant – Trainer, Researcher, and Evaluator
Following an extensive career in the Victorian local government, vocational education and training, and higher education sectors, Robyn created Cochrane Research Solutions in 2013. In response to community need, Robyn launched 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, evaluator, 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.
