AI Practice Session: Grant Writing & Funder Research [CFRE-approved]

​In this AI for Fundraisers practice session, we’ll tackle two of the most time-consuming and mentally draining parts of institutional fundraising: finding the right funders and writing strong, aligned grant narratives.

​​​Participation in this session is applicable for 1 point in Category 1.B – Education of the CFRE International application for initial certification and/or recertification.

​This hands-on workshop with Amanda and Louis will show you how to use WIZE to streamline funder research, clarify fit, and draft grant components more efficiently — without sacrificing accuracy, strategy, or voice.

​In this workshop, you will:

• ​Identify and prioritize aligned foundations using AI-assisted funder research

• ​Analyze funder guidelines, priorities, and past giving to assess true fit

• ​Generate clear outlines for grant proposals based on funder language and criteria

• ​Draft key proposal components (need statements, program descriptions, outcomes) faster and more confidently

• ​Create a reusable grant research and writing workflow your team can apply across opportunities

​​​​Bonus: CFRE certification is within reach while you elevate your fundraising game! Don’t miss this opportunity to grow professionally and make a lasting impact.

​All attendees receive a free WIZE trial account to use during live, guided exercises.

​By the end of the session, you’ll walk away with practical grant drafts, clearer funder targets, and repeatable templates that reduce time spent chasing the wrong opportunities — and increase the quality of the proposals you submit.

​​Amanda Smith is a seasoned philanthropy leader with 20 years of experience in advancement services and strategic data management. As Executive Director at Lehigh Valley Health Network, she has significantly enhanced donor pipelines and fundraising performance. With an MBA and MPA, Amanda combines academic expertise with practical experience for nonprofit organizations. Her achievements include increasing a donor pool by 1,455% in three years. Recognized in the Association of Healthcare Philanthropy's 40 under 40, Amanda excels in leveraging data-driven strategies to drive philanthropic success, focusing on coaching fundraising teams and optimizing major gift strategies.

​NOTE: This session WILL NOT be recorded, as we'll be working live to build each organization's campaign plan.

​​​​Note: Participation in this program may assist you in learning or reviewing concepts covered on the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) examination as detailed on the Test Content Outline provided by CFRE International. CFRE International does not sponsor or endorse any educational programs and this program was not developed in conjunction with CFRE International.