What is Grant Writing?

Grant writing involves intense focus, solid research, great attention to detail, and clear, concise language. As such, writing a grant is a challenging endeavor; it cannot be casually undertaken in a single afternoon. In fact, organizations (and even some individuals) usually hire a professional writer to complete the grant writing process for them.

Anyone who writes grants knows it’s an involved and complicated process. Not only do grant writers research, locate, and submit grant applications, but they also help ensure eligibility requirements are met. What’s more, they incorporate all the needed elements into every proposal. This takes time and expertise. While there is no guarantee, hiring an experienced grant writer increases the chances of being awarded grants. GrantWatch lists currently available grants for grant seekers.

Grant Research & Eligibility Check

As a grant-seeker, you should complete your FREE grant readiness assessment before consulting with a grant writer. This will help your writer know what type of grants you should apply for. A key part of researching grants is determining which grants are worth pursuing for your project. When conducting research, individuals spend countless hours working with detailed lists, databases, and various resources to locate grants for an organization. You must be open and honest about your status or the grant writer will lose valuable time. For example, you do not want your grant writer to be searching for nonprofit grants when you are registered with the IRS as a business. This will cost you and the writer valuable time and resources.

Consult You On Grants

Grant writers are oftentimes experienced in more than just writing amazing grant applications. For example, exceptional grant writing requires a grant writer to possess strong interpersonal skills. Oftentimes, professional grant writers can also help consult on how to prepare your brand for grant reviewers. What’s more, they are skilled in identifying funding opportunities, so don’t hesitate to ask your grant writer about a grant you may have discovered on your own. They will help you understand the culture of grants and always encourage you to apply for grants you are most likely to win.

Tell Your Story

Your grant submission must illustrate that your organization’s needs are worthy of the donor’s trust, support, and ultimately, their funding. A good grant writer will study and understand the history, structure, objectives, programs, and financial needs of any organization. One way to ensure your grant proposal stands out is open communication with your grant writer. Communication is crucial to a grant writer’s ability to tell your story effectively. Once due diligence is done, your writer will draft a proposal and assemble support documents. After that, the writer will let you review the draft and request any changes to make.

Details and Guidelines

Grants are not easy money, and the grant application process is quite competitive. When drafting proposals, grant writers must follow the funder’s guidelines. For example, grant writers might describe the daily activities of the grant-seeking individual or organization. Grant proposals often require various documents, such as cover letters, a budget, project outlines, and other supporting data. Including letters of support from renowned members of the community can also add to the appeal of a proposal. All parts must adhere to the funder’s guidelines to be compliant. Before submitting your grant application, the writer will complete a final draft. The grant writer will then submit the proposal to you for approval.

Who’s Your Grant Writer?

So, now that you know what grant writing is about, one question remains. Do you hire a grant writer or do you write a grant on your own? Ultimately, the choice is yours. And the best part is there is no wrong answer. GrantWatch encourages organizations to apply for grants for themselves when possible. If your organization does not have the budget to hire a grant writer, try grant writing and applying for grants yourself. Start small and build a foundation. The application process for micro-grants and in-kind grants is generally simpler and faster. You’ll also have a better chance of getting funding, which will help to build your grant award history.

If you have the budget and want to hire a professional grant writer, visit GrantWriterTeam.com and post a classified ad. Be sure to vet your candidates and hire the individual who has the qualifications you need. A good grant writer has industry knowledge, creativity, strong writing skills, and a proven track record. It stands to reason, if you choose this route all the leg work, including research, strategy, writing, and all the other work that goes into the application process is done for you.

As you can see, grant writing is a complex and intricate process. GrantWatch hopes this article has given you something to consider on your grant-seeking journey.

With close to 8,000 grants currently available, GrantWatch.com is the leading grant listing directory. Upgrade to a MemberPlus+ subscription to view the full grant details, including eligibility criteria and application information. For more information, you can also visit the GrantWatch FAQ page. To see the great value of all 20 of the top GrantWatch features, click here.