The 10% Problem: A Practical Workshop

What project management really costs, before and after the grant is approved

Project management does not begin when the funding lands.

Before a grant application is written, someone needs to work out what the project will involve, what it will cost and whether the organisation can realistically deliver it.

Once the funding is approved, someone needs to hold the detail, manage the moving parts and turn the commitments in the application into a successfully delivered project.

But when funders cap or restrict project management costs, how do you make it all work?

The 10% Problem Workshop is a practical online workshop for leaders of not-for-profit organisations and community groups who are designing, funding or delivering projects.

Grant writer and strategic funding partner Liz Fleming and senior delivery manager Leah McPherson will bring together their two perspectives to explore:

• what project management really involves before and after funding

• what project management genuinely costs

• where project management fits within a grant-funded budget

• how to recognise when your project needs dedicated management

• the difference between a project manager, a coordinator and existing staff absorbing the work

• what to consider when the available funding does not match the work required.

You will leave with a clearer understanding of the project management your project needs, when it is needed and how to make more informed decisions about scope, budget and resourcing.

Who is this workshop for?

This workshop is designed for:

• NFP CEOs and executive leaders

• community organisation leaders

• programme and project leads

• committee and board members

• grants and fundraising professionals

• anyone responsible for designing or delivering a grant-funded project.

Bring a real project with you, whether it is still an idea, being prepared for a grant application or ready to commence following funding approval.

Meet your presenters

Liz Fleming is a Chartered Accountant, grant writer and strategic funding partner who helps organisations turn their big ideas into realistic, fundable projects. Through The Grants Club, Liz has supported more than 350 organisations and helped secure more than $25 million for impactful projects.

Leah McPherson is a senior delivery manager who helps organisations turn project commitments into structured, coordinated and achievable delivery. She brings practical expertise in the work required to hold projects together from planning through to completion.

Together, Liz and Leah will connect the decisions made before a grant is submitted with what is required once the project moves into delivery.

Event details

Date: Wednesday, 9 September 2026
Time: 12.30pm - 1.30pm AEST
Location: Online via Zoom
Investment: $45

Your registration includes:

• attendance at the live workshop

• a copy of the presentation slides

• access to the workshop recording.

The recording will be available only to registered participants and will not be offered for separate public purchase.

Bring your question

You can submit a question when you register. Liz and Leah will address selected project management and grant-budget questions during the workshop.

Project management does not start when the grant is approved, and it does not shrink to fit the funding cap.

Join us for The 10% Problem Workshop and learn how to plan for the real work behind a grant-funded project.

Find out more about Leah McPherson here - www.leahmcpherson.com

Find out more about Liz Fleming here - www.grantsclub.com.au