About Training New Grant Seekers
TNGS: Built by a Grant Writer and Consultant Who's Been in the Trenches
Not a textbook approach. Real-world strategies from someone who has written, reviewed, and won grants for nonprofits just like yours.
Marcia Salmon - MBA, MS
Founder & Lead Trainer, Training New Grant Seekers (TNGS)
- Multiple Grant Writing Certifications courtesy of Dr. Bev Browning
- Former Member - Grant Professionals Association
- Former University/College Professor
- Grants Coordinator at Habitat for Humanity
- 10+ Years Nonprofit Development Experience
"I started Training New Grant Seekers (TNGS) after spending over a decade inside the nonprofit world — writing proposals, managing funder relationships, and watching organizations leave money on the table simply because no one had taught them how to ask."
Over the course of my career I've written and reviewed hundreds of grant proposals across education, housing, health, and community development. I've sat on State and local review panels. I know what funders are looking for — and I know exactly where most proposals fall apart.
In 2012, I designed the TNGS curriculum materials and began offering one-on-one coaching to nonprofit leaders in Southwest Florida who were frustrated with rejection letters and unsure where to turn. Word spread quickly. Within twelve years, TNGS had trained staff and volunteers at more than 50 organizations across Leon, Broward, Indian River, Collier, Lee, and Charlotte counties.
Today, Training New Grant Seekers serves nonprofits at every stage — from first-time applicants who have never written a proposal to experienced development teams looking to sharpen their competitive edge. Every TNGS service is grounded in what actually works, not what sounds good in a classroom.
How I Work
What You Can Expect
Practical Over Theoretical
Every technique I teach comes from real proposals — ones that won and ones that lost. You'll leave with tools you can use immediately, not frameworks you'll forget by next week.
Honest Feedback
I won't tell you your proposal is great when it isn't. Funders won't either. My job is to give you the kind of direct, specific feedback that actually makes your work stronger.
Community-Rooted
I live and work in Southwest Florida. I know the local funding landscape, the regional foundations, and the community needs your organization is working to address. That context matters.
Ready to Work with TNGS?
Whether you need one-on-one coaching, a proposal review, or a workshop for your team — let's start with a free conversation with Training New Grant Seekers.