Narrative Building Training Summary

About this Tool

Effective coalition work depends not only on strong programs and partnerships, but on the ability to communicate why the work matters and how it creates economic and community value. Storytelling is not an add-on—it is a core leadership skill that shapes how audiences understand problems, assign responsibility, and support solutions. This guide introduces key storytelling principles drawn from the Alliance's Storytelling Workshops delivered during Phase 2 technical assistance and translates them into practical steps for coalition leaders who are new to narrative strategy.

At its core, storytelling is about framing. Every story—whether intentional or not—defines the issue, signals who or what is responsible, and implies what should be done next. Strong narratives help coalitions move audiences away from deficit-based thinking and toward a shared understanding that economic wellbeing, community strength, and prosperity are interconnected.