5 TED Talks Every Grant Writer Should Watch

We’ve had the privilege of working with a wide range of organizations—boards of directors, chambers of commerce, visitor bureaus, economic development teams, nonprofits, and even privately funded organizations. Through this work, we’ve learned a crucial truth about grant writing: the right knowledge at the right time can make all the difference.

Looking back, we realize that if we had known certain strategies and approaches sooner, we would have been even better equipped to secure funding, streamline the grant writing process, and make a greater impact. But here’s the good news—we know now. And we can help you get there faster.

The world of grant writing is more than just filling out applications; it’s about crafting compelling narratives, understanding funders' priorities, and strategically positioning your organization for success. And sometimes, the best way to learn is by hearing from experts who have mastered the art of storytelling, funding strategy, and community impact.

That’s why we’ve curated a list of powerful TED Talks that align with what we’ve learned through our experience. These talks will give you a fresh perspective on grant writing, funding, and making an impact in your community.

1. “The Real ROI of Grant Writing” – Teresa Huff

Teresa Huff breaks down what many organizations overlook: grant writing isn’t just about getting money—it’s about long-term impact. She discusses how the ripple effect of funding can transform communities, and how organizations can measure the true return on investment of their grant efforts.

2. “How to Fund Real Change in Your Community” – Rebecca Darwent

One of the biggest lessons we’ve learned is that funding isn’t just about dollars—it’s about sustainable change. Rebecca Darwent’s TED Talk highlights the power of collective giving and how communities can lead decision-making to create lasting impact. If you’re looking for inspiration on how to position your grant proposals for meaningful change, this talk is a must-watch.

3. “The Art of Rough Drafts” – George Saunders (ReThinking with Adam Grant Podcast)

Grant writing isn’t perfect on the first try. Rewriting, revising, and refining are key to making your proposals strong. This talk explores the importance of iteration and how embracing the messy first draft can lead to a winning final proposal.

4. “Rewriting Your Story” – Allison Sweet Grant

We’ve worked with so many organizations that struggle to tell their story in a way that resonates with funders. This TED Talk emphasizes the power of storytelling and how reframing your message can make a proposal more compelling and persuasive.

5. “Zen of Grant Writing” – Jill Sonke

Grant writing can feel overwhelming, but Jill Sonke offers a refreshing, mindful approach that helps writers stay grounded and creative throughout the process. If you’re feeling stuck, this talk will help you shift your perspective.

What This Means for You

At Thrive Community Partners, we get it. We’ve been where you are—navigating the grant writing process for a variety of organizations, learning from trial and error, and discovering what works (and what doesn’t). The difference now? We know how to maximize potential, streamline success, and help you fund your future.

These TED Talks reinforce what we’ve learned firsthand, and we’re excited to share that knowledge with you. Ready to put these insights into action?

📌 Download our FREE grant writing checklist and start crafting proposals that get funded!