top of page

Funding The Future: Expert Insights from Jaevion Nelson at ERAO SVG Inc Training.


Leeza Charles, founder of Arubana & Jaevion Nelson from UNAIDS
Leeza Charles, founder of Arubana & Jaevion Nelson from UNAIDS

Securing grant funding is a competitive process that requires strategic planning, clear communication, and a compelling case for impact. Jaevion Nelson from UNAIDS, an expert in grant writing and international funding, recently led a two-day session with ERAOS SVG Inc. On the 25 and 26th of January 2025 at 10:00 AM at Sunset Shores Hotel's Conference Room.


The session offered invaluable insights into crafting standout grant proposals, overcoming funding hurdles, and mastering project management strategies. Afterward, I, Leeza Charles, founder of Arubana Retreat and passionate grant writer, had the privilege of sitting down with Jaevion to dive deeper into his expertise. We explored key tips and strategies that anyone looking to break into the grant world needs to know.


1. What are the key elements that make a grant proposal stand out to funders?

A strong idea is essential, but funders are primarily interested in impact. Proposals should:

  • Clearly define the problem the project addresses.

  • Demonstrate measurable outcomes and long-term benefits.

  • Show where funds will be allocated and how costs will be contained.

  • Highlight scalability, funders want to support initiatives that can grow and create wider change.


2. What are the most common mistakes applicants make, and how can they avoid them?

  • Vague impact statements – Clearly outline the intended impact with quantifiable data.

  • Lack of collaboration – Engage with other organizations and stakeholders to strengthen credibility.

  • Underestimating financial details – Even for small grants, funders prefer detailed proposals with a well-structured budget.

  • Applying for the wrong grants – Ensure the grant aligns with your project’s mission and long-term strategy.


3. How can small or emerging organizations compete with larger, well-established ones for funding?

  • Leverage partnerships with other organizations to enhance credibility.

  • Focus on niche areas where larger organizations may not have the same level of expertise or local knowledge.

  • Clearly articulate your unique impact – show how your work fills a gap in the community.

  • Demonstrate trust and credibility by highlighting past successes, even on a smaller scale.


4. How important is storytelling in a grant proposal, and how can applicants use it effectively?

Storytelling is crucial because funders want to connect emotionally with the cause. A strong proposal should:

  • Use real-life examples to demonstrate impact.

  • Be structured yet engaging, balancing data with human stories.

  • Clearly link personal narratives to measurable change: how will funding transform lives?

  • Ensure the tone is authentic, compelling, and aligned with the organization’s mission.


5. What specific advice do you have for Caribbean-based organizations seeking USAID or international funding?

  • Focus on regional/global issues that funders prioritize, such as climate change, economic resilience, and social equity.

  • Demonstrate local knowledge while aligning with international funding criteria.

  • Build relationships with regional networks that have successfully secured similar grants.

  • Be transparent about challenges Caribbean organizations face and propose realistic, innovative solutions.


6. What are the best ways to demonstrate long-term sustainability in a grant proposal?

  • Clearly outline a continuation plan beyond the grant period.

  • Show how the project will be self-sufficient in the long run (e.g., revenue generation, partnerships, government support).

  • Emphasize cost efficiency, scalability, and adaptability.

  • Maintain open communication with funders, sustainability is not just financial but also about relationships and credibility.


7. How should organizations build relationships with funders before applying for grants?

  • Understand funders’ priorities by researching past projects they have supported.

  • Attend networking events, conferences, and webinars to engage with potential funders.

  • Maintain visibility through consistent communication and progress updates.

  • Be ready to pitch your project anytime, opportunities can arise unexpectedly.

  • Introduce yourself properly and ensure that your organization’s goals align with the funder’s vision.


 

Activity: Create Your Dream Grant Success Headline!


Grab a pen, some paper, and get ready for 5 minutes of creative inspiration! 🎉


Picture this: It's five years from now, and you've just secured the biggest grant of your career, millions of dollars to bring your wildest vision to life! A top news outlet is writing about your incredible success.


Now, it’s your turn: In the next 5 minutes, write the headline that would capture the moment when the world celebrates your breakthrough. What does it say?


Example:📰 "Arubana Founder Secures $50M Grant to Build the World’s First Regenerative Luxury Retreat!"


This is your chance to dream big and set the stage for the impact you’re going to create. It’s not just about writing a headline; it’s about crafting the story of your success. Let your imagination run wild, and have fun with it! 🚀


Bonus: Take it a step further! After writing your headline, head over to Canva and design it like a real news headline. Play with colors, fonts, and graphics to bring your success to life visually. You’ll get a glimpse of how it might look when the world reads about your achievement. 🚀


 

About Jaevion Nelson

Jaevion Nelson is a human rights and inclusive development practitioner with over 15 years of experience in advocacy, communications, and project management. His work focuses on HIV, human rights, social justice, youth empowerment, and social development.

He holds an MSc. in Social Development and Communication from the University of Wales, Swansea, and a BSc. in Management Studies (Marketing) from the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus.


His areas of expertise include:

Strategic Planning & Development

Fundraising & Grant Writing

Program Design & Management

Advocacy & Policy Analysis

Training & Facilitation

As Advisor, Community Support at UNAIDS, Jaevion continues to support grassroots organizations and social development initiatives worldwide.

Final Thoughts


🔗 Connect with Jaevion Nelson on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jaevion/


 

Grant writing is more than just securing funding, it’s about creating sustainable impact and fostering meaningful relationships with funders. By crafting well-researched, transparent, and compelling proposals, organizations can significantly increase their chances of success.


Special thanks to ERAO SVG Inc. for the fantastic training and to Jaevion Nelson for sharing his expertise. ERAO SVG Inc. is dedicated to promoting equality and non-discrimination in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.


For more information, visit their website: ERAOS SVG

Follow them on social media: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

61 vues

Comments


​Arubana Retreat is a sustainable working farm rooted in Non-GMO and organic agriculture, seamlessly integrated with eco-tourism to celebrate Caribbean heritage and harmony with nature.

© 2023 by Arubana. 

bottom of page