Conferences & Events

Virtual Proposal Writing Workshop: Talent Search

April 02 — 03, 2026

Virtual

Thursday, April 2, from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET and Friday, April 3, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET

The FY 2026 Talent Search grant competition introduces sweeping changes that raise serious concerns across the TRIO community—changes that impact program design, priorities, participant structure, and competitiveness. With proposals due May 1, this is not a routine grant cycle. It is a high-stakes moment that demands precision, strategy, and expert insight. COE is responding with urgency. Join us for a day-and-a-half, intensive Proposal Writing Workshop designed to help Talent Search directors and staff navigate this evolving landscape and develop competitive, high-quality proposals aligned with the new requirements. Grounded in a deep analysis of the FY 2026 application—including new priorities such as workforce alignment and state-led initiatives, as well as structural expectations like serving a minimum of 500 participants annually —this workshop will equip you with the clarity and tools needed to respond strategically. View the agenda here. 

Participants will engage directly with COE senior staff and experienced grant writers to break down the most critical components of the application, including:

  • Developing a strong, compliant, and compelling project design (Plan of Operation)
  • Building a strategic, defensible budget aligned with program goals and requirements
  • Effectively addressing absolute, competitive, and invitational priorities
  • Strengthening alignment between objectives, services, and measurable outcomes

This workshop goes beyond theory. Participants will have the opportunity to submit up to three sections of their proposal for expert review, receiving targeted feedback designed to strengthen clarity, competitiveness, and compliance. Additional guidance on submission requirements will be shared in advance of the workshop. At a time when the structure and expectations of Talent Search are shifting, preparation is critical. This workshop provides not just information—but strategy, feedback, and confidence. The stakes are high. The timeline is short. The expectations have changed. COE is here to ensure you are prepared.

 

REGISTER HERE

Eligibility & Registration

This workshop is exclusively available to COE Institutional Members as part of your membership benefits.

COE provides unique membership services for each TRIO grant program, and institutional membership rates are structured to correlate with the increased amount of support and services that an institution will access. A COE membership assists you in:

  • Increasing competitiveness in securing TRIO funding to boost graduation and retention rates;
  • Enhancing the services you provide to low-income, first-generation students and students with disabilities to increase their chances of success;
  • Strengthening your community engagement profile by connecting your institution to local organizations and community agencies serving diverse populations;
  • and Accessing a national network of thought leaders who believe in the power of higher education as an engine of social mobility and global competitiveness.

Program and professional development opportunities, such as onboarding for college access and success professionals, are deeply discounted. Study abroad and internship opportunities for your students and recent alumni. Real-time technical assistance to ensure compliance with federal grant guidelines. If your registration reflects a fee, please confirm your institution’s active membership or see if renewal is due here.

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