The Writing Institute's commitment to writers extends beyond the University of Pittsburgh. In partnership with Pitt's Community Engagement Centers, we offer grant writing workshops for Pittsburgh community members — particularly those working in or alongside local nonprofits who could benefit from access to grant funding.
Grant Writing Workshops
Dana Nowlin-Russell and Liberty Ferda facilitate the community grant writing workshops. Both teach professional writing courses at Pitt, and they bring that same curriculum, adapted for community audiences, to neighborhoods beyond campus.
Each spring, Dana and Liberty welcome a cohort of community members for a multi-session grant writing workshop at Pitt's Community Engagement Center in the Hill District. Participants meet weekly to learn about the grant writing process, practice skills at each stage, and connect with one another. The workshop is free to attend.
The workshop draws participants from across Pittsburgh: people already doing good work through nonprofits and community organizations, as well as those who are newer to grant writing or hoping to launch initiatives of their own. Past participants have included representatives from organizations working with homeless populations, youth empowerment, and community health.
At the end of the workshop, participants have the option to submit a short grant proposal for a chance to win a mini-grant award, sponsored by the Hill District CEC. These awards go directly to local grassroots nonprofits and community programs. In 2025, four mini-grant awards totaling $1,025 were awarded from a pool of six submissions. The workshop has become a popular program at the CEC Hill District, regularly filling to capacity.
Resources for Community Grant Writers
If you are a community member seeking additional grant writing resources, the following may be helpful.
Researching Funders and Nonprofits
Finding Funding
- Foundation Directory Online
- Grantmakers of Western Pennsylvania
- GWP Member Grant Deadlines
- Federal Funding
- Federal Grant-Making Agencies
Sample Applications, Guidelines, and Funding Announcements