What you will learn?
Craft compelling, ethical nonprofit stories that engage donors and stakeholders.
Develop strong, evidence-based case statements that clearly communicate need and impact.
Tailor storytelling approaches for diverse audiences, including foundations and corporate partners.
Measure and refine storytelling strategies to improve fundraising effectiveness.
Target Audience
Nonprofit executive directors and development professionals
Fundraising managers and grant writers
Communications and marketing staff in nonprofit organizations
Board members and volunteers involved in fundraising and outreach
About this course
Non-Profit Storytelling and Case Development is a practical, strategy-driven course designed to help nonprofit professionals craft compelling narratives and build persuasive, evidence-based cases for support. In today’s competitive funding environment, organizations must do more than present statistics—they must tell powerful, authentic stories that connect emotionally with donors, foundations, corporate partners, and community supporters. This course equips participants with the tools to do exactly that.
Learners will explore the fundamentals of effective storytelling, including narrative structure, donor psychology, ethical considerations, and the balance between emotion and data. The course provides step-by-step guidance on identifying story opportunities within programs, building a story bank, and securing informed consent while preserving dignity and authenticity. Participants will also develop strong case statements that clearly articulate need, solution, and measurable impact.
Special attention is given to tailoring messages for different audiences, including major donors, grantmakers, and corporate partners. The course covers practical writing techniques, compelling calls to action, digital and social media storytelling strategies, and integrating visuals and multimedia elements on a budget. Participants will also learn how to translate stories into winning grant proposals and measure storytelling effectiveness through data and feedback.
By the end of the course, learners will have a structured storytelling strategy and a clear action plan to strengthen fundraising communications, increase donor engagement, and build long-term organizational support.
Requirements
Basic understanding of nonprofit operations or fundraising principles
Interest in improving communication, donor engagement, and grant writing skills
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