The Presentation Effect: How to Create Talks That Drive Impact

A professional seated at a desk, speaking confidently into a webcam with presentation slides visible on a computer screen, exemplifying a well-prepared virtual presentation setup

Fund sourcing is not just about writing grant applications. It can involve creating an impactful presentation and creating an impactful presentation involves more than just assembling slides. It’s about crafting a compelling narrative, engaging your audience, and delivering your message with clarity and confidence.

We have put together 10 key, yet simple 😉, steps to help you create presentations that leave a lasting impression.

1. Know Your Audience

Understanding your audience is crucial. Tailor your content to their interests, knowledge level, and expectations. Ask yourself:


2. Define Your Objective

Clearly define the purpose of your presentation. Whether it’s to inform, persuade, or entertain, having a clear objective helps you stay focused and ensures your message is on point.

A diverse audience captured in a cross-sectional view, attentively listening to a speaker, highlighting the importance of engaging your audience during a presentation

3. Craft a Compelling Story

A good presentation tells a story. Structure your content with a clear beginning, middle, and end.


4. Design Visually Appealing Slides

Your slides should enhance your message, not distract from it. Here are some design tips:

A vibrant, visually appealing slide filled with bright colors, images, and concise text, demonstrating the impact of a well-designed presentation on audience engagement

5. Use Data Effectively

Data can add credibility to your presentation, but it needs to be presented clearly.


6. Engage Your Audience

Keep your audience engaged with interactive elements.

A slide filled with clear and concise statistics, bar graphs, and pie charts, emphasizing the importance of data visualization in making a compelling argument during a presentation

7. Practice Delivery

Even the best slides won’t save a poorly delivered presentation. Practice is key.


8. Handle Q&A with Confidence

Prepare for the Q&A session.

A woman standing in front of a mirror, rehearsing her speech with visible confidence, showcasing the importance of practice in delivering an effective presentation
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9. Use Technology Wisely

Leverage technology to enhance your presentation.


10. Gather Feedback

After your presentation, seek feedback to improve.

A man energetically presenting to an audience, using a clicker to advance slides, with a smile and animated gestures that reflect his passion for the topic
A person reviewing a video of their own presentation on an iPhone, taking notes, and making adjustments, illustrating the value of self-review in refining presentation skills

Bonus Tip:

After your presentation to stakeholders, watch a recording of your presentation. It can help you identify strengths and weaknesses, differently from when you practice in front of a mirror.

Grab on ALL the leverage You can Get

AKA GrantWrite

In sourcing for funds for your business or nonprofit, creating impactful presentations is a crucial skill.

Tools like GrantWrite can assist in streamlining your grant applications and organizing your data effectively, giving you more time to focus on crafting compelling narratives and engaging presentations.

With features like customizable settings, version control, and centralized communication, GrantWrite ensures your grant writing process is efficient and organized, ultimately enhancing your presentation’s impact.

For more tips on creating impactful presentations and leveraging tools like GrantWrite, visit GrantWriteAI.

If you have any questions about the software, shoot me an email at [email protected] or schedule a call.

May the grants be ever in your favor!


Sign up for GrantWriteAI today and increase your chances in grant writing success.

A confident individual, dressed smartly and standing tall with a determined expression, ready to step onto the stage, symbolizing the mindset needed to seize opportunities through impactful presentations

And for more information on what other grant writing professionals are doing . . .

Use the Comprehensive Report for All Things Grant Writing 2024 by GrantWrite.

But first, we need some info from you

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About The Author

Grant writing blog author

Sarah Thompson is a dynamic grant writer with a passion for storytelling and a heart for making a difference. With over five years of experience in the non-profit sector, she specializes in weaving compelling narratives that capture the essence of her organization's mission and the impactful work they do. Sarah's expertise spans a broad range of causes, from environmental conservation to community development, and her successful track record in securing grants reflects her dedication and skill. Beyond her professional achievements, Sarah is an avid blogger, sharing insights, tips, and reflections on the art and science of grant writing. Her conversational and insightful posts aim to demystify the grant writing process, offering valuable guidance to both newbies and seasoned professionals. In her spare time, Sarah enjoys exploring the great outdoors, indulging her love for photography, and volunteering at local community centers.