This interactive workshop supports not-for-profit arts organizations and community groups to confidently develop strong, funder ready grant applications. Participants are guided step by step through the core components of a successful grant, including clarifying their mission and impact, identifying who they serve, articulating community need, and describing outcomes in a way that resonates with funders. The goal is to help arts organizations tell their stories clearly and authentically. Participants leave with practical tools, a working draft framework they can adapt for future grants, and a deeper understanding of how funders assess applications.
Meet Your Facilitators
Blair Dimock, Executive in Residence
Blair is a recently retired executive with more than 30 years of experience leading mission driven organizations across the broader public sector. Most recently, he served as Vice President, Partnerships and Measurement at the Ontario Trillium Foundation, following senior leadership roles at TVOntario and the Ontario Premier’s Council. Throughout his career, Blair has led strategies focused on innovation, outcomes measurement, cross sector collaboration, and strong governance practices.
Liz Forsberg, Executive in Residence
Liz Forsberg brings over 20 years of leadership across the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors, with deep experience strengthening arts, culture, and community based organizations. She has served as an executive director, foundation leader, and strategic advisor, bringing both operational and board level perspectives. Most recently, Liz led partnerships and arts and culture strategy at the Ontario Trillium Foundation, working closely with boards and executive teams across Ontario. She brings a practical, equity informed approach to governance and organizational capacity building grounded in accountability and long term sustainability.