Unlocking Grant Funding: What You Need to Know

​About

​Grants can be one of the most powerful ways to fund your organization or project — they don’t require giving up equity, and they don’t need to be repaid. But what does it actually take to secure one? In this workshop, we’ll break down the grant funding landscape, from federal and state opportunities to private foundations and industry-specific programs.

​You’ll learn how different organizations evaluate applications, what makes a strong proposal stand out, and which questions you should be asking before you apply. We’ll also cover practical tips on eligibility, timelines, reporting requirements, and how to align your mission with a funder’s priorities.

​Whether you’re new to grants or looking to refine your approach, this session will give you the insights and tools to confidently pursue funding that supports your goals.

​Bio

​Kyle Pickett is a government affairs and communications professional with expertise across transportation, defense, aerospace, aviation, and energy. He specializes in grant and proposal writing, policy strategy, and industry communications.

​He most recently served as Director of Government Affairs at GridMatrix, a transportation AI company, where he led government proposal and grant writing that secured statewide contracts, a national purchasing cooperative agreement, and city and county partnerships. He also represented the company on the ITS America AI and Digital Transformation Working Group, shaping policy on digital infrastructure.

​Previously, Pickett was Aerospace and Transportation Director at Cision Global Briefings, overseeing daily intelligence reports for the U.S. Departments of Transportation and Interior, NASA, Lockheed Martin, GE, and other Fortune 500 clients. Earlier, he authored books on hydrocarbon markets, advised on policy research at the Penn Program on Ethnic Conflict, and directed public relations campaigns in Sacramento.

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Host

​​​​​Funding Breakthrough Lab is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit pre-accelerator that helps founders strategize, fundraise, and grow their startups. With a mission to build a better tomorrow, we’ve created a thriving community of over 15,000+ subscribers where education, networks, and resources come together to unlock founder potential.

​We specialize in helping early-stage entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of fundraising—whether through grants, venture capital, or alternative funding paths—while championing diversity, inclusion, and authenticity.

​Founded by Natalie Pan, an engineer, community builder, and executive coach, Funding Breakthrough Lab provides the tools and support you need to move from idea to investment.

​Apply now for the next cohort and gain the credibility, connections, and confidence to secure funding for your startup: fundingbreakthroughlab.org