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49 Grant Writing Resources: The Ultimate List for 2024

Reviewed by:

January 25, 2024

Table of Contents

Welcome to our updated guide on the best grant writing resources for nonprofits. This collection is designed specifically for nonprofits and includes diverse, curated tools and resources to boost your grant acquisition efforts.

In this guide, you’ll find: 

• Online webinars offering in-depth knowledge about grant research and writing
• Interactive classes imparting essential skills for successful grant proposals
• Templates and sample proposals to guide your writing process
• Articles and e-books providing insights into the grant acquisition landscape
• Access to databases listing potential grant opportunities
• Tools for project budgeting and financial planning
• Services for reviewing and providing feedback on your grant proposals

Let’s get started!

The Best General Grant Writing Resources for Beginners

Below are some of the best beginner-friendly grant writing resources for nonprofits. 

Many of these paid and free grant writing resources cover the basics of grant writing, including identifying potential funders, crafting compelling narratives, designing budgets, and more. 

Beginner-Friendly Grant Writing Webinars

In this section, we delve into an assortment of webinars specifically tailored for beginners in grant writing. 

Instrumentl Partner Workshops

Instrumentl offers free partner workshops that provide a comprehensive introduction to grant writing. These webinars aim to equip participants with the essential skills and knowledge to kickstart their grant-writing journeys .

From how to write SMART objective statements to how to get stellar support letters , you’ll find regular grant-related programming on Instrumentl.

Instrumentl Partner Workshops are one-hour workshops and typically include a free raffle attendees can enter, giving you exclusive access to ongoing education opportunities in grant writing.

DHLeonard Consulting

Offering a wide range of grant writing webinars, DHLeonard Consulting is another excellent resource for beginners. These webinars cover a broad spectrum of topics relevant to grant writing, from proposal writing to budgeting .

Diane Leonard is a GPA Approved Trainer who makes grant writing approachable. Her catalog of free webinars covers a variety of grant writing topics for beginner grant writers and beyond.

Some beginner topics include:

• Foundation and Grants Fundraising Overview
• Effective Pre-Planning for Grant Applications
• Grant Writing: Mastering the Basics and Beyond

Most of these courses count as credit toward achieving your Grant Professional Certification (GPC). Additionally, she also offers customized training seminars for your nonprofit on a paid basis.

CharityHowTo 

Free or paid starting at $44/month

CharityHowTo offers a plethora of webinars on grant writing. With options available for free or starting at a nominal fee of $44 per month, beginners can easily access resources that best suit their budget and needs.

Their Grants for Nonprofits webinars cover topics such as how to conduct grant research, get started with grant writing, and tips for successful grant seeking . The paid version offers many more training courses, such as writing a grant budget that sells your application and building relationships with grantmakers.

The Grantsmanship Center 

Paid, starting at $79/session

The Grantsmanship Center provides webinars that delve into the intricacies of grant writing. 

Starting at $79, you can select individual webinar videos for specific topics such as :

• How to Create a Budget
• Understanding Indirect Costs
• Identifying Outcomes and Methods in your proposal.

Another option is to take their 2-day Essential Grant Skills course. It gives you a comprehensive introduction to the world of grant writing.

Or, you can dive deeper by attending their 5-day Grantsmanship Training program, which not only covers writing a grant proposal but also planning programs and working with funders.

LearnGrantWriting.org 

Paid, $500/month

LearnGrantWriting.org offers webinars that guide beginners through the process of effective grant writing. Their content is designed to not only cover the basics but also introduce advanced concepts at a pace suitable for beginners .

Additionally, they offer an online series of videos and coaching for getting started as a freelance grant writer. It is a year-long membership to teach you how to build a career as a freelancer.

The webinars help develop your all-around grant writing skills, such as funder research, grant writing, and project management. LearnGrantWriting also offers an hour-long, free grant-writing course to get you started.

You can also check out Meredith’s presentation with Instrumentl here .

Insights Straight To Your Inbox

Beginner grant writing guides.

Grant writing guides serve as comprehensive sources of knowledge that can help you understand the depth and breadth of the field. They clarify the steps in writing a grant, dissect the elements of a successful proposal, and offer best-practice tips and techniques.

Here are notable guides that are particularly useful for beginners in this field:

CFDA’s Developing and Writing a Grant Proposal

The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance provides a detailed guide titled "Developing and Writing a Grant Proposal." 

This resource offers clear, step-by-step instructions on how to write a grant proposal , starting from understanding the funding opportunity announcement to developing a budget for your project. The guide also provides practical writing tips to make your proposal more compelling to potential funders.

The Writing Center at UWM

The Writing Center at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee offers a plethora of resources to help you write an effective grant proposal. The center provides guides on various aspects of grant writing , from understanding the basics to crafting an appealing narrative for your proposal. It is especially beneficial for beginners as it breaks down the process into digestible steps.

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UNC’s Writing Center

The Writing Center at the University of North Carolina provides a comprehensive guide on grant proposals. It covers all the aspects of grant writing, from understanding the project to effectively communicating it to the potential funders. 

This guide not only provides the steps to write a grant but also helps you refine your skills to craft a proposal that stands out . An added benefit is that it also describes the grant life cycle, from planning a project, writing and submitting a proposal, receiving an award, and following up with the funder during and after project implementation.

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Training for Government Grants

The sector of government grants offers an abundance of possibilities for nonprofit entities. However, applying for these grants can be intricate and sometimes overwhelming.

To navigate this course efficiently, here are some key resources that can guide you through every step of the process:

Grants.gov Learning Center

Grants.gov Learning Center offers an extensive array of resources, including tutorials, articles, and even user guides to help you understand the process of applying for federal grants.

The Grants.gov Learning Center does not tell you how to write a federal grant, but it does explain how to use the application system .

The National Science Foundation’s Guide for Proposal Writing

The National Science Foundation's Guide for Proposal Writing is a comprehensive resource aimed at assisting you in the development and writing of proposals to the Science Foundation . It provides detailed guidance on the preparation of proposals, insights into the merit review process, and tips on proposal writing.

One of its first points they make is that they issue awards “based on merit, not on need.” They look for project models that make substantial improvements in the field, are innovative, and demonstrate success.

The National Institute of Health’s Application Guide

The National Institute of Health's Application Guide is an exhaustive guide that walks you specifically through the NIH grant application process . 

It provides helpful instructions and information to assist you in understanding the requirements of grant applications at the NIH. They also provide tutorials on how to use the system and offer examples of successful applications for reference.

US Environmental Protection Agency

The US Environmental Protection Agency offers several resources for applying for grants, including an extensive grant application kit. The kit provides instructions, forms, and templates to assist in its grant writing process .

They offer resources to use their system and explain the grant management process once your organization has received an award.

Federal Grant Writing Boot Camp 

Paid, $495-$795

Federal Grant Writing Boot Camp is an intensive, four-day webcast workshop that provides hands-on training for those interested in writing federal grants . The boot camp covers all aspects of grant writing, from researching potential grants to writing a compelling proposal and managing awarded grants.

Paid, $1,195

As mentioned earlier, The Grantsmanship Center provides comprehensive grant-writing resources. In addition to the above training, the Grantsmanship Center also has a 5-day training (available in-person and digitally) specifically for competing for federal grants . 

This course provides a federal funding overview, explains how to interpret guidelines, draft compelling narratives, and helps you to develop and review concept papers.

The Best General Grant Writing Resources for Intermediate and Advanced Grant Writers

For intermediate and advanced grant writers seeking to develop their skills further and broaden their network, the following resources offer a wealth of knowledge, training, and opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals.

Grant Professionals Association 

Memberships starting at $95

The Grant Professionals Association (GPA) is a nonprofit membership association that builds and supports an international community of grant professionals committed to serving the greater public good by practicing the highest ethical and professional standards. GPA provides a platform where grant writers can connect, share resources, and get the latest industry news . 

While the GPA does offer free tools and resources, the maximum benefit comes from becoming a member. They offer publications, webinars, and a mentor program for members.

Additionally, the GPA offers professional development and networking opportunities. They also oversee the Grant Professionals Certification Institute, a certification program for grant professionals. Instrumentl is a proud partner of the GPA.

GPA’s Next Level Grant Training 

Paid, Various Prices

GPA's Next Level Grant Training is a program specifically designed for advanced grant writers. The training offers in-depth courses on various aspects of grant writing, including strategic planning, evaluation, and budgeting . 

A year’s worth of monthly online classes cover topics such as:

• Creating a Roadmap for Your Organization
• Ethics in All Things Grants
• Advancing Your Grantseeking 

This course helps you to improve your proposal writing skills, understand the grant cycle, and manage your grant portfolio.

Agile in Nonprofits

Agile in Nonprofits is a unique resource that applies agile project management principles to the nonprofit sector. This platform provides tools, training, and coaching to help grant professionals manage their work in a more efficient and effective manner . 

By implementing Agile practices, nonprofits can enhance their capacity to adapt to changes, improve team collaboration, and increase delivery speed while ensuring quality.

Grant Writing Resources for Creating and Preparing Budgets

Managing a budget is a critical aspect of the grant writing process. It involves detailing the costs associated with the program or project you're seeking funding for and demonstrating to the funder that the money will be utilized wisely and effectively.

The following resources are designed to assist you in creating and preparing budgets for your grant proposals.

Upstream’s How to Create a Program Budget

Upstream Public Health’s Guide on How to Create a Program Budget is an excellent resource for beginners. 

It provides a detailed, step-by-step process to help you understand the components of a budget, including direct and indirect costs and how to present them in your grant application .

Not only that, but they provide a downloadable budget template you can use as a reference.

The EPA’s Budget Modules

The Environmental Protection Agency’s Budget Modules provide a comprehensive tool for preparing budget proposals for EPA grants. 

The modules include detailed instructions for budget preparation and cost estimation, as well as templates and sample budgets to guide you through the process .

They provide instructions on how to use the budget forms and define what costs are allowable. They also address the difference between direct and indirect costs and how to calculate each.

Candid’s Introduction to Project Budgets

Candid’s Introduction to Project Budgets offers a comprehensive overview of constructing a budget for a projec t. It covers areas such as:

• Income that should be considered in the budget
• The difference between direct and indirect costs
• How to format and present your budget. 

They also explain what organizational financial documents you will need to support your budget.

Useful Compiled Lists of Grant Writing Tips

Whether you're a novice grant writer or a seasoned professional, getting some extra tips and tricks is always beneficial to help you refine your grant writing skills. 

This section compiles a list of insightful articles and blogs that provide valuable advice from established grant writers and organizations. 

GPA’s Blog: Eight Words and Phrases to Avoid in Grant Proposals - One Grant Writer’s List

How often are you using the word “very” in your proposal? 

The Grant Professionals Association’s Blog has an insightful post outlining eight words and phrases that you should avoid including in your grant proposals . This list, compiled by an experienced grant writer, provides practical advice to make your proposals more compelling and effective.

Instrumentl’s Blog: Top 15 Things to Do Before You Write a Grant

Before you even start writing your grant proposal, there are crucial steps that you need to take. Instrumentl provides a checklist of the top 15 things you should do before you start writing your grant .

What’s unique about Instrumentl’s guides is you’ll find in-depth breakdowns on commonly used grant writing skills, along with concrete examples. For instance, in this post on invite-only funders , you get a sample letter you can reuse for your outreach efforts.

Ten Simple Rules for Getting Grants

This resource provides ten simple, yet effective, rules for getting grants . The rules are designed to guide you through the grant writing process and enhance your chances of securing funds for your project or program .

While these tips are written specifically for research grants, they can apply to all types of funding pursuits. Keeping your grant proposals clear and concise will help to keep reviewers’ interest.

U.S. Department of Education’s Grant Writing Tips

The U.S. Department of Education’s grant writing tips provide valuable advice on how to write a successful grant proposal. The tips are practical and straightforward, providing guidance that is applicable to a wide range of grants .

For example, reading the application package thoroughly and following every instruction—including the formatting rules—will keep your application from being disqualified.

How to Create a Budget for a Grant Application - Tips from Wisconsin Historical Society

Creating a budget for your grant application can be a daunting task, but the Wisconsin Historical Society offers useful tips to make this process easier. 

This resource guides you in detailing the costs associated with your program or project effectively . Plus, it has tips and more to help you prepare a convincing budget.

The Grantsmanship Center’s Proposal Checklist

The Grantsmanship Center’s Proposal Checklist is a comprehensive guide to ensure you include all the necessary elements in your grant proposal. 

This reusable checklist provides a detailed overview of each section of a successful grant proposal, helping you to create compelling and thorough applications .

The Best Tech Tools for Grant Writers

In the complex world of grant writing, having the right tech tools at your disposal is crucial. These platforms can simplify and streamline the entire grant lifecycle, from identifying potential funders to preparing proposals to managing the project and reporting results. 

Tools to Organize the Grant Lifecycle

There are many different parts of the grant lifecycle that must be organized carefully. The following tools can help grant writers streamline the process. 

Instrumentl

Free for 14-days, then paid, starting at $172/monthly

Instrumentl is a comprehensive grant management tool that streamlines the process of finding, tracking, and applying for grants . It provides up-to-date data on thousands of grant opportunities, helping you to identify those that are the best fit for your organization's mission and goals.

One of the best features is the ability to input information about your nonprofit’s programs and then find specific open and active grant opportunities you can actually apply for. Once you set up a project, Instrumentl automatically notifies you when new grants fit your search criteria. 

Instrumentl’s built-in Tracker tool also allows you to:

• Flag your funding prospects
• Track where each application is in the grant life cycle
• Create tasks to be completed (great for team collaboration)
• And organize all associated documents on the cloud

You can also generate reports that summarize all of your grant work to present to your team, executive director, and board.

You can read and watch our customer’s stories about their wins with us here .

‍Fluxx Grantseeker

Free, or paid version starting at $14.99/month for basic functionality

Fluxx Grantseeker is a robust tool that provides a centralized system for managing all aspects of the grant process , from application to reporting. It offers advanced search capabilities to find the most relevant grants and enables seamless collaboration among team members.

Because Fluxx is better known for its grantmaker tools, you may find their grantseeker tool somewhat limited in functionality at this time. Learn how Fluxx compares to Instrumentl here .

Foundation Directory Online

Paid, $219.99/monthly

Foundation Directory Online is a powerful research tool that provides access to detailed information on grantmakers, grants, and grant recipients . It allows you to search for funders based on your project's specific needs and connect with them directly.

Specifically, it allows you to search for potential funder matches for your nonprofit by subject, geographic focus, population served, and more. The results generate a list of foundations that match your criteria. You can then select each matched foundation to see its profile.

The profile will show contact information, grant guidelines and deadlines, previous awards granted, and other information to help you determine whether it is a good match for your project. Learn the differences between FDO and Instrumentl here .

GrantStation 

Paid, $179/year

GrantStation offers a searchable database of grant opportunities, step-by-step tutorials on grant writing and management, and an array of tools to help you develop a successful grant strategy .

They also allow you to search based on subject and geographic area of focus and give you detailed funder profiles. They offer planning tools to build your grant strategy based on your search results. Read about the differences between GrantStation and Instrumentl here .

GrantVantage 

Paid, pricing per feature

GrantVantage is a comprehensive grant management platform that enables you to track the entire grant lifecycle , from application to award to reporting. It offers a dashboard to monitor grant performance, tools and templates for budget management, and capabilities for effective collaboration and communication.

Project Management Tools

Efficient project management is crucial in the grant writing process. It ensures that tasks are completed on time, resources are allocated appropriately, and collaboration happens seamlessly.

To assist with this, several tech tools are available that make managing your projects and tasks easier than ever before. Here, we highlight three highly recommended grant management tools:

Free, or paid versions starting at $10.99/month

Asana is a popular project management tool known for its simplicity and flexibility. It enables you to create and assign tasks, set deadlines, track progress, and communicate with your team, all within the platform . Asana also integrates well with other tools, making it an excellent choice for managing the multiple aspects of your grant writing process. 

Additionally, they offer a grant application pipeline template to help you keep track of grants in their different stages. You can assign a due date, prioritize projects, and set up approval procedures to help you and your team finalize each application.

Free, with paid version starting at $5/month

Trello offers a visual approach to project management with its card-based system that makes it easy to see and track the progress of individual tasks . 

You can assign tasks to team members, add due dates, attach files, and categorize tasks based on your needs. Trello is a great tool for organizing your grant writing activities in a digestible, easy-to-follow manner.

Free, with paid version starting at $81.50/month

Jira is known for its robust features designed for agile project management , making it ideal for larger teams or more complex grant writing projects. 

With Jira, you can create user stories, plan sprints, track issues, and generate reports, all of which can be customized to fit your team's workflow. Although it has a steeper learning curve compared to other tools, its powerful features are worth exploring.

Grammar Tools

In the grant writing process, maintaining a high standard of grammar and clarity in your proposals is essential. Misunderstandings or confusion caused by poor grammar can lead to your proposals getting rejected. 

Thankfully, there are several digital tools available to assist you with this. Here, we outline two such tools, Grammarly and ProWritingAid, that can greatly improve the quality of your writing and increase your chances of success.

Free, with paid version starting at $12.00/month

Grammarly is a widely used digital writing assistant that helps you eliminate grammar errors , enhance clarity and meaning, and ensure your writing is always polished and professional. 

It offers detailed explanations for all your mistakes and a weekly progress report. It's an indispensable tool for grant writers, helping to ensure that every proposal you write is clear, error-free, and impactful.

ProWritingAid 

Free, with paid version starting at $10/month

ProWritingAid is another powerful writing tool that goes beyond the basic grammar and spelling checks. It provides in-depth reports to help you strengthen your writing, tools for style improvements, and even helps detect instances of plagiarism . Its detailed reports and writing suggestions make this a great resource for improving your grant proposals.

Useful Grant Writing Books to Read:

Reading and learning from experts in grant writing can significantly enhance your skills and increase your chances of securing funding for your projects. 

Here, we've compiled a list of some of the most recommended books in the field that delve into the intricacies of the grant writing process, from understanding the funding landscape to crafting compelling proposals.

The Only Grant Writing Book You’ll Ever Need By Ellen Karsh and Arlen Sue Fox 

About $15 on Amazon

This comprehensive book provides a step-by-step guide to grant writing , covering everything from finding suitable funding opportunities to crafting compelling grant applications. It also includes interviews with grantmakers to help demystify how they make decisions on selecting grantees.

How to Write a Grant: Become a Grant Writing Unicorn By Meredith Noble 

About $20 on Amazon

Recommended by our very own CEO, Meredith Noble's book is a standout resource that demystifies the grant writing process . It offers a clear, accessible approach, making it an excellent choice for those new to grant writing or those who want to refine their skills. 

The book addresses how to write grants with a convincing narrative, how to prepare budgets, manage your timelines, and how to make your proposals stand out to funders.

Getting Funded: The Complete Guide to Writing Grant Proposals By Renee Bourque & Susan Howlett 

About $64 on Amazon

Described as a “comprehensive instructional manual,” this guide offers an in-depth look at the entire grant proposal process . It includes valuable tips on how to construct a compelling narrative, develop a budget, and build strong relationships with funders.

Grant Writing: The Complete Workbook for Writing Grant Proposals that Win By Mary Gladstone-Highland 

About $10 on Amazon

Mary Gladstone-Highland’s workbook offers grant writing templates and grant budget examples to help you create complete proposals. It provides clear, step-by-step instructions and includes various templates to assist in the grant writing process .

Successful Grant Writing for Health and Human Service Professionals, Fifth Edition By Laura Gitlin Ph.D., Ann Kolanowski Ph.D., Kevin J Lyons Ph.D. 

About $51 on Amazon

This book, specifically written for professionals in the health and human services fields, provides detailed strategies for successful grant writing . It encompasses real examples and practical advice to help you build persuasive and winning proposals.

Some of the more advanced topics include how to generate evidence for your programs, writing a literature review for supporting evidence, and considerations for study designs.

Writing to Win Federal Grants: A Must-Have for Your Fundraising Toolbox By Cheryl K. Lester & Karen L. Cassidy 

About $40 on Amazon

Cheryl K. Lester and Karen L. Cassidy's book provides a comprehensive guide to writing federal grants . It includes step-by-step instructions, best practices, and a wealth of resources to help you navigate the federal grant landscape with confidence.

It also details each section of a federal grant application, including program and budget planning. It also describes how to manage the grant after you’ve received the award.

Writing the NIH Grant Proposal: A Step-by-Step Guide By William Gerin, Christine Kapelewski Kinkade, & Niki L. Page 

About $60 on Amazon

This guide, specifically tailored toward NIH grant writing resources , provides a thorough understanding of how to write a successful grant proposal. The book provides invaluable NIH grant writing resources like practical advice, examples, and key takeaways for each step of the Application Submission System.

For more helpful resources, be sure to check out our post on the best grant writing books .

Helpful Places to Find Grant Writers for Your Nonprofit

Finding the right grant writer for your nonprofit can make all the difference in securing the funding your organization needs. Here are some resources to help you find experienced grant writers and consultants, each with a track record of success in securing funding for a variety of projects and organizations.

Instrumentl Grant Writer / Consultant Directory

Instrumentl offers a directory of seasoned grant writers and consultants . These professionals are experienced in a range of fields and have a proven history of winning grants for nonprofits. 

On this sheet, each listed organization describes their ideal nonprofit customer, cost structure, contact information, and X-factor.

DH Leonard Consulting & Grant Writing Services

DH Leonard Consulting & Grant Writing Services is a reputable firm providing experienced grant writing services. They offer a variety of packages tailored to suit the needs of different organizations.

For example, they offer services including grant opportunity research, grant writing and editing, mock grant reviews, consultations to build your grant team, and multiple training options. They also offer a “Grant Writer in Your Pocket,” a one-time, contract-free consultation call.

Williams Grant Writing

Williams Grant Writing is a family-owned business known for its quick turnaround time and development of excellent grant packages. Plus, their website also offers a wealth of information on their blog. 

GPA’s Career Website 

Paid, starting at $99/per 30-day job

The Grant Professionals Association ’s career website is another excellent resource to find seasoned grant writers.  They offer job postings for both freelance and full-time grant writers, making it a useful platform for nonprofits looking to hire professional grant writing services. They regularly contact their members with job listings to help match available talent with the opportunity.

Paid, starting at $3,000/month

Upstream is a grant consulting firm specializing in helping nonprofit organizations secure funding. Their grant writers come from diverse backgrounds and possess extensive experience in securing grants for a variety of causes.

This GPA-approved business will evaluate your funding needs, review and strengthen your grant readiness, find and apply for grant opportunities on your behalf, and keep track of reporting requirements. Upstream is one example of a grant writing consultancy that you can find in Instrumentl’s directory.

Wrapping Things Up: The Ultimate List of Grant Writing Resources

As we conclude, it's critical to note that the realm of grant writing is vast and multifaceted. Whether you're new to the field or an experienced veteran, both the paid and free grant writing resources highlighted in this article are intended to offer support at every stage of the process. 

From comprehensive books that teach you how to craft compelling narratives to directories where you can find seasoned grant writers, these resources are invaluable additions to your toolkit. Remember, the pursuit of grants is a journey, and the resources mentioned here are your travel guides. Check out the Best Grant Writing Courses here for even more insight and help. 

Keep exploring, keep learning, and most importantly, keep writing!

Instrumentl team

Instrumentl is the all-in-one grant management tool for nonprofits and consultants who want to find and win more grants without the stress of juggling grant work through disparate tools and sticky notes.

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Grant Writing Tips

Obtaining and maintaining funding is critical in sustaining a research career. Whether your funding comes from a foundation or philanthropy, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), or another government agency, the tips within this section can support you. This resource provides strategies and tools to help you effectively navigate the process of  prewriting ,  writing , and  rewriting  your grant application to maximize your chances of success.

Set a Foundation 

Diversify your Portfolio

Choose a Topic 

Make Connections

Establish Deadlines

Create & Compile Credentials 

Understand the Grant Scoring Process

Are You Ready?

Know Your Audience

Provide a Cover Letter

Make an Impact

Write Your Specific Aims Page

Use Style Tips

Format Your Grant

Pre-Review Your Grant Application

Understand Proposal Flaws

Craft Your Response 

Respond to a Summary Statement

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The Ultimate Grant Writing Guide (and How to Find and Apply for Grants)

Securing grants requires strategic planning. Identifying relevant opportunities, building collaborations, and crafting a comprehensive grant proposal are crucial steps. Read our ultimate guide on grant writing, finding grants, and applying for grants to get the funding for your research.

Updated on February 22, 2024

Embarking on a journey of groundbreaking research and innovation always requires more than just passion and dedication, it demands financial support. In the academic and research domains, securing grants is a pivotal factor for transforming these ideas into tangible outcomes. 

Grant awards not only offer the backing needed for ambitious projects but also stand as a testament to the importance and potential impact of your work. The process of identifying, pursuing, and securing grants, however, is riddled with nuances that necessitate careful exploration. 

Whether you're a seasoned researcher or a budding academic, navigating this complex world of grants can be challenging, but we’re here to help. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps of applying for grants, providing expert tips and insights along the way.

Finding grant opportunities 

Prior to diving into the application phase, the process of finding grants involves researching and identifying those that are relevant and realistic to your project. While the initial step may seem as simple as entering a few keywords into a search engine, the full search phase takes a more thorough investigation.

By focusing efforts solely on the grants that align with your goals, this pre-application preparation streamlines the process while also increasing the likelihood of meeting all the requirements. In fact, having a well thought out plan and a clear understanding of the grants you seek both simplifies the entire activity and sets you and your team up for success.

Apply these steps when searching for appropriate grant opportunities:

1. Determine your need

Before embarking on the grant-seeking journey, clearly articulate why you need the funds and how they will be utilized. Understanding your financial requirements is crucial for effective grant research.

2. Know when you need the money

Grants operate on specific timelines with set award dates. Align your grant-seeking efforts with these timelines to enhance your chances of success.

3. Search strategically

Build a checklist of your most important, non-negotiable search criteria for quickly weeding out grant options that absolutely do not fit your project. Then, utilize the following resources to identify potential grants:

• Online directories
• Small Business Administration (SBA)
• Foundations

4. Develop a tracking tool

After familiarizing yourself with the criteria of each grant, including paperwork, deadlines, and award amounts, make a spreadsheet or use a project management tool to stay organized. Share this with your team to ensure that everyone can contribute to the grant cycle.

Here are a few popular grant management tools to try: 

• Jotform : spreadsheet template
• Airtable : table template
• Instrumentl : software
• Submit : software

Tips for Finding Research Grants

Consider large funding sources : Explore major agencies like NSF and NIH.

Reach out to experts : Consult experienced researchers and your institution's grant office.

Stay informed : Regularly check news in your field for novel funding sources.

Know agency requirements : Research and align your proposal with their requisites.

Ask questions : Use the available resources to get insights into the process.

Demonstrate expertise : Showcase your team's knowledge and background.

Neglect lesser-known sources : Cast a wide net to diversify opportunities.

Name drop reviewers : Prevent potential conflicts of interest.

Miss your chance : Find field-specific grant options.

Forget refinement : Improve proposal language, grammar, and clarity.

Ignore grant support services : Enhance the quality of your proposal.

Overlook co-investigators : Enhance your application by adding experience.

Grant collaboration 

Now that you’ve taken the initial step of identifying potential grant opportunities, it’s time to find collaborators. The application process is lengthy and arduous. It requires a diverse set of skills. This phase is crucial for success.

With their valuable expertise and unique perspectives, these collaborators play instrumental roles in navigating the complexities of grant writing. While exploring the judiciousness that goes into building these partnerships, we will underscore why collaboration is both advantageous and indispensable to the pursuit of securing grants.

Why is collaboration important to the grant process?

Some grant funding agencies outline collaboration as an outright requirement for acceptable applications. However, the condition is more implied with others. Funders may simply favor or seek out applications that represent multidisciplinary and multinational projects.

To get an idea of the types of collaboration major funders prefer, try searching “collaborative research grants” to uncover countless possibilities, such as:

• National Endowment for the Humanities
• American Brain Tumor Association

For exploring grants specifically for international collaboration, check out this blog:

• 30+ Research Funding Agencies That Support International Collaboration

Either way, proposing an interdisciplinary research project substantially increases your funding opportunities. Teaming up with multiple collaborators who offer diverse backgrounds and skill sets enhances the robustness of your research project and increases credibility.

This is especially true for early career researchers, who can leverage collaboration with industry, international, or community partners to boost their research profile. The key lies in recognizing the multifaceted advantages of collaboration in the context of obtaining funding and maximizing the impact of your research efforts.

How can I find collaborators?

Before embarking on the search for a collaborative partner, it's essential to crystallize your objectives for the grant proposal and identify the type of support needed. Ask yourself these questions: 

1)Which facet of the grant process do I need assistance with:

2) Is my knowledge lacking in a specific: 

• Population?

3) Do I have access to the necessary:

Use these questions to compile a detailed list of your needs and prioritize them based on magnitude and ramification. These preliminary step ensure that search for an ideal collaborator is focused and effective.

Once you identify targeted criteria for the most appropriate partners, it’s time to make your approach. While a practical starting point involves reaching out to peers, mentors, and other colleagues with shared interests and research goals, we encourage you to go outside your comfort zone.

Beyond the first line of potential collaborators exists a world of opportunities to expand your network. Uncover partnership possibilities by engaging with speakers and attendees at events, workshops, webinars, and conferences related to grant writing or your field.

Also, consider joining online communities that facilitate connections among grant writers and researchers. These communities offer a space to exchange ideas and information. Sites like Collaboratory , NIH RePorter , and upwork provide channels for canvassing and engaging with feasible collaborators who are good fits for your project. 

Like any other partnership, carefully weigh your vetted options before committing to a collaboration. Talk with individuals about their qualifications and experience, availability and work style, and terms for grant writing collaborations.

Transparency on both sides of this partnership is imperative to forging a positive work environment where goals, values, and expectations align for a strong grant proposal.

Putting together a winning grant proposal

It’s time to assemble the bulk of your grant application packet – the proposal itself. Each funder is unique in outlining the details for specific grants, but here are several elements fundamental to every proposal:

• Executive Summary
• Needs assessment
• Project description
• Evaluation plan
• Team introduction
• Sustainability plan 

This list of multi-faceted components may seem daunting, but careful research and planning will make it manageable. 

Start by reading about the grant funder to learn:

• What their mission and goals are,
• Which types of projects they have funded in the past, and
• How they evaluate and score applications.

Next, view sample applications to get a feel for the length, flow, and tone the evaluators are looking for. Many funders offer samples to peruse, like these from the NIH , while others are curated by online platforms , such as Grantstation.

Also, closely evaluate the grant application’s requirements. they vary between funding organizations and opportunities, and also from one grant cycle to the next. Take notes and make a checklist of these requirements to add to an Excel spreadsheet, Google smartsheet, or management system for organizing and tracking your grant process.

Finally, understand how you will submit the final grant application. Many funders use online portals with character or word limits for each section. Be aware of these limits beforehand. Simplify the editing process by first writing each section in a Word document to be copy and pasted into the corresponding submission fields.

If there is no online application platform, the funder will usually offer a comprehensive Request for Proposal (RFP) to guide the structure of your grant proposal. The RFP: 

• Specifies page constraints
• Delineates specific sections
• Outlines additional attachments
• Provides other pertinent details

Components of a grant proposal

Cover letter.

Though not always explicitly requested, including a cover letter is a strategic maneuver that could be the factor determining whether or not grant funders engage with your proposal. It’s an opportunity to give your best first impression by grabbing the reviewer’s attention and compelling them to read further. 

Cover letters are not the place for excessive emotion or detail, keep it brief and direct, stating your financial needs and purpose confidently from the outset. Also, try to clearly demonstrate the connection between your project and the funder’s mission to create additional value beyond the formal proposal.

Executive summary

Like an abstract for your research manuscript, the executive summary is a brief synopsis that encapsulates the overarching topics and key points of your grant proposal. It must set the tone for the main body of the proposal while providing enough information to stand alone if necessary.

Refer to How to Write an Executive Summary for a Grant Proposal for detailed guidance like:

• Give a clear and concise account of your identity, funding needs, and project roadmap.
• Write in an instructive manner aiming for an objective and persuasive tone
• Be convincing and pragmatic about your research team's ability.
• Follow the logical flow of main points in your proposal.
• Use subheadings and bulleted lists for clarity.
• Write the executive summary at the end of the proposal process.
• Reference detailed information explained in the proposal body.
• Address the funder directly.
• Provide excessive details about your project's accomplishments or management plans.
• Write in the first person.
• Disclose confidential information that could be accessed by competitors.
• Focus excessively on problems rather than proposed solutions.
• Deviate from the logical flow of the main proposal.
• Forget to align with evaluation criteria if specified

Project narrative

After the executive summary is the project narrative . This is the main body of your grant proposal and encompasses several distinct elements that work together to tell the story of your project and justify the need for funding. 

Include these primary components:

Introduction of the project team

Briefly outline the names, positions, and credentials of the project’s directors, key personnel, contributors, and advisors in a format that clearly defines their roles and responsibilities. Showing your team’s capacity and ability to meet all deliverables builds confidence and trust with the reviewers.

Needs assessment or problem statement

A compelling needs assessment (or problem statement) clearly articulates a problem that must be urgently addressed. It also offers a well-defined project idea as a possible solution. This statement emphasizes the pressing situation and highlights existing gaps and their consequences to illustrate how your project will make a difference.

To begin, ask yourself these questions:

• What urgent need are we focusing on with this project?
• Which unique solution does our project offer to this urgent need? 
• How will this project positively impact the world once completed?

Here are some helpful examples and templates.

Goals and objectives

Goals are broad statements that are fairly abstract and intangible. Objectives are more narrow statements that are concrete and measurable. For example :

• Goal : “To explore the impact of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance in college students.”
• Objective : “To compare cognitive test scores of students with less than six hours of sleep and those with 8 or more hours of sleep.”

Focus on outcomes, not processes, when crafting goals and objectives. Use the SMART acronym to align them with the proposal's mission while emphasizing their impact on the target audience.

Methods and strategies

It is vitally important to explain how you intend to use the grant funds to fulfill the project’s objectives. Detail the resources and activities that will be employed. Methods and strategies are the bridge between idea and action. They must prove to reviewers the plausibility of your project and the significance of their possible funding.

Here are some useful guidelines for writing your methods section that are outlined in " Winning Grants: Step by Step ."

• Firmly tie your methods to the proposed project's objectives and needs assessment.
• Clearly link them to the resources you are requesting in the proposal budget.
• Thoroughly explain why you chose these methods by including research, expert opinion, and your experience.
• Precisely list the facilities and capital equipment that you will use in the project.
• Carefully structure activities so that the program moves toward the desired results in a time-bound manner.

A comprehensive evaluation plan underscores the effectiveness and accountability of a project for both the funders and your team. An evaluation is used for tracking progress and success. The evaluation process shows how to determine the success of your project and measure the impact of the grant award by systematically gauging and analyzing each phase of your project as it compares to the set objectives.

Evaluations typically fall into two standard categories:

1. Formative evaluation : extending from project development through implementation, continuously provides feedback for necessary adjustments and improvements. 

2. Summative evaluation : conducted post-project completion, critically assesses overall success and impact by compiling information on activities and outcomes.

Creating a conceptual model of your project is helpful when identifying these key evaluation points. Then, you must consider exactly who will do the evaluations, what specific skills and resources they need, how long it will take, and how much it will cost.

Sustainability

Presenting a solid plan that illustrates exactly how your project will continue to thrive after the grant money is gone builds the funder's confidence in the project’s longevity and significance. In this sustainability section, it is vital to demonstrate a diversified funding strategy for securing the long-term viability of your program.

There are three possible long term outcomes for projects with correlated sustainability options:

• Short term projects: Though only implemented once, will have ongoing maintenance costs, such as monitoring, training, and updates.

(E.g., digitizing records, cleaning up after an oil spill)

• Projects that will generate income at some point in the future: must be funded until your product or service can cover operating costs with an alternative plan in place for deficits.

(E.g., medical device, technology, farming method)

• Ongoing projects: will eventually need a continuous stream of funding from a government entity or large organization.

(E.g., space exploration, hurricane tracking)

Along with strategies for funding your program beyond the initial grant,  reference your access to institutional infrastructure and resources that will reduce costs.

Also, submit multi-year budgets that reflect how sustainability factors are integrated into the project’s design.

The budget section of your grant proposal, comprising both a spreadsheet and a narrative, is the most influential component. It should be able to stand independently as a suitable representation of the entire endeavor. Providing a detailed plan to outline how grant funds will be utilized is crucial for illustrating cost-effectiveness and careful consideration of project expenses. 

A comprehensive grant budget offers numerous benefits to both the grantor , or entity funding the grant, and the grantee , those receiving the funding, such as:

• Grantor : The budget facilitates objective evaluation and comparison between multiple proposals by conveying a project's story through responsible fund management and financial transparency.
• Grantee : The budget serves as a tracking tool for monitoring and adjusting expenses throughout the project and cultivates trust with funders by answering questions before they arise.

Because the grant proposal budget is all-encompassing and integral to your efforts for securing funding, it can seem overwhelming. Start by listing all anticipated expenditures within two broad categories, direct and indirect expenses , where:

• Direct : are essential for successful project implementation, are measurable project-associated costs, such as salaries, equipment, supplies, travel, and external consultants, and are itemized and detailed in various categories within the grant budget.
• Indirect : includes administrative costs not directly or exclusively tied to your project, but necessary for its completion, like rent, utilities, and insurance, think about lab or meeting spaces that are shared by multiple project teams, or Directors who oversee several ongoing projects.

After compiling your list, review sample budgets to understand the typical layout and complexity. Focus closely on the budget narratives , where you have the opportunity to justify each aspect of the spreadsheet to ensure clarity and validity.

While not always needed, the appendices consist of relevant supplementary materials that are clearly referenced within your grant application. These might include: 

• Updated resumes that emphasize staff members' current positions and accomplishments. 
• Letters of support from people or organizations that have authority in the field of your research, or community members that may benefit from the project.
• Visual aids like charts, graphs, and maps that contribute directly to your project’s story and are referred to previously in the application. 

Finalizing your grant application

Now that your grant application is finished, make sure it's not just another document in the stack Aim for a grant proposal that captivates the evaluator. It should stand out not only for presenting an excellent project, but for being engaging and easily comprehended . 

Keep the language simple. Avoid jargon. Prioritizing accuracy and conciseness. Opt for reader-friendly formatting with white space, headings, standard fonts, and illustrations to enhance readability.

Always take time for thorough proofreading and editing. You can even set your proposal aside for a few days before revisiting it for additional edits and improvements. At this stage, it is helpful to seek outside feedback from those familiar with the subject matter as well as novices to catch unnoticed mistakes and improve clarity.

If you want to be absolutely sure your grant proposal is polished, consider getting it edited by AJE .

How can AI help the grant process?

When used efficiently, AI is a powerful tool for streamlining and enhancing various aspects of the grant process.

• Use AI algorithms to review related studies and identify knowledge gaps.
• Employ AI for quick analysis of complex datasets to identify patterns and trends.
• Leverage AI algorithms to match your project with relevant grant opportunities.
• Apply Natural Language Processing for analyzing grant guidelines and tailoring proposals accordingly.
• Utilize AI-powered tools for efficient project planning and execution.
• Employ AI for tracking project progress and generating reports.
• Take advantage of AI tools for improving the clarity, coherence, and quality of your proposal.
• Rely solely on manual efforts that are less comprehensive and more time consuming.
• Overlook the fact that AI is designed to find patterns and trends within large datasets.
• Minimize AI’s ability to use set parameters for sifting through vast amounts of data quickly.
• Forget that the strength of AI lies in its capacity to follow your prompts without divergence.
• Neglect tools that assist with scheduling, resource allocation, and milestone tracking.
• Settle for software that is not intuitive with automated reminders and updates.
• Hesitate to use AI tools for improving grammar, spelling, and composition throughout the writing process.

Remember that AI provides a diverse array of tools; there is no universal solution. Identify the most suitable tool for your specific task. Also, like a screwdriver or a hammer, AI needs informed human direction and control to work effectively.

Looking for tips when writing your grant application? 

Check out these resources:

• 4 Tips for Writing a Persuasive Grant Proposal
• Writing Effective Grant Applications
• 7 Tips for Writing an Effective Grant Proposal
• The best-kept secrets to winning grants
• The Best Grant Writing Books for Beginner Grant Writers
• Research Grant Proposal Funding: How I got $1 Million

Final thoughts

The bottom line – applying for grants is challenging. It requires passion, dedication, and a set of diverse skills rarely found within one human being.

Therefore, collaboration is key to a successful grant process . It encourages everyone’s strengths to shine. Be honest and ask yourself, “Which elements of this grant application do I really need help with?” Seek out experts in those areas.

Keep this guide on hand to reference as you work your way through this funding journey. Use the resources contained within. Seek out answers to all the questions that will inevitably arise throughout the process.

The grants are out there just waiting for the right project to present itself – one that shares the funder’s mission and is a benefit to our communities. Find grants that align with your project goals, tell your story through a compelling proposal, and get ready to make the world a better place with your research.

The AJE Team

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Check Out Our Brand-New 20 Minute Training on How to Make Money as a Grant Writer

Grant Writing 101: What is it & how do you get started?

Have you been thrown into the deep end working at a nonprofit organization and tasked to apply for grant funding for the first time? Maybe you've heard about the field, catching the buzz from a friend starting a grant writing side hustle . Or you've seen how others have pivoted their careers to launch grant writing consultant businesses.

However you found grant writing, we're glad you're here!

Grant writers are perceived to have superpowers—they know how to get free money!

Well, it's not quite that easy. There is no such thing as free money, and grant writing is a lot of hard work.

However, it is very learnable and an incredible skill set to have in your quiver. Even newcomers succeed with the right guidance and training under their belt.

This crash course in grant writing will cover everything you need to know to start approaching grant writing like a boss!

Grant Writing Essentials: Definitions & FAQs

• Grant Writing vs. Nonprofit Fundraising

The Grant Writing Process for Beginners

Understanding the grant fundraising landscape, why grant writing is such a valuable skill.

Curious about how to get into grant writing without prior experience? Check out this video to learn more.

Let’s start with the essentials: a few grant writing definitions and frequently asked questions.

What is grant writing?

Grant writing is the process of crafting a written proposal to receive grant funding from a grant making institution in order to fund a program or project.

Grant writing involves laying out your case for why the grant will do the most good for you (or your project or organization). A stellar grant proposal will clearly show the funder that your plan is the best possible choice for accomplishing your shared goals.

Think of grant writing like making a pitch to investors or lenders but to receive funding that you won’t need to pay back.

That begs the question…

What are grants?

A grant is a financial award to support a person, organization, project, or program. It is intended to achieve a specific goal or purpose. Nonprofits can use grants to complete projects, run programs, provide services, or continue running a smooth operation.

Great, now where is all of this money coming from?

Who provides grant funding?

Typically, grants are awarded to organizations from grant making institutions (also called grantors ). These include foundations, corporations, and government agencies.

Grantors provide grants to help further their goals in their communities (or around the country or world) and to support other organizations that do on-the-ground work. These goals are typically philanthropic or social in nature, but grants might also be offered for educational, scientific, or any other purpose.

Grants usually come with very specific guidelines for what the money can and can’t be used for, as well as rules for how the “winner” of the grant (or the grantee ) will report on its progress. When a grant has specific guidelines, we call these funds restricted . Restricted funding means they can only be used for the purposes laid out in the proposal and specified by the funder.

So, can anybody and everybody get grant money?

Who is eligible for grant funding?

Many different types of organizations are eligible to write proposals and apply for grant funding. Most notably, 501(c) nonprofit organizations that have IRS Letters of Determination (basically any type of legit nonprofit).

More specifically, these types of organizations are eligible for grants through grant writing:

• Nonprofits/public charities with IRS-recognized status
• Unincorporated community groups with fiscal sponsors
• Tribal organizations (and sometimes housing authorities)
• Faith-based organizations (which sometimes must provide direct social services depending on the grantor’s guidelines)
• Local governments

Exciting, right? Grants can do a lot of good for organizations of all sizes. But who’s doing the work?

Who does the actual grant writing and drafts the proposal?

All different kinds of folks! Each organization finds their sweet spot for getting the work done. Grant proposals can be written by:

• Employees of eligible organizations
• Volunteers lending their time
• Freelance grant writers providing a contract-based service
• Grant writing consultants who provide organizations with ongoing help through retainer contracts

Successful grant writing leads to positive impacts on real people and real communities. Grant writers put in the elbow grease because they care about charitable organizations and their missions. They want to see their communities thrive.

Is Grant Writing A Good Career For You?

Take the 3 minute personality quiz to find out!

How do you learn grant writing?

Grant writing is a set of specific skills and processes, so it can be taught and learned like any other subject.

There are a few different avenues you can explore to level up your grant writing skills.

• DIY Method: You can binge-watch YouTube content to pick up the bits and pieces of grant writing. This is certainly a cost-effective method! However, factoring in the stress of reinventing the wheel while riding the struggle bus of going it alone, you’re spending more time (and $$) in the long run to learn grant writing skills.
• Higher-Ed Programs: Several universities offer certifications in nonprofit management, but most do not focus solely on grant writing. For a semester or two, the curriculum will teach you the ins and outs of nonprofit organizations, which includes grant writing. These courses include a university certificate for formal education. The downside, however, is that university programs fall short of helping students bridge the gap between learning the material and actually applying it—in other words, getting paid tp use your newly acquired knowledge in the field.
• Online Courses: There’s a wide variety of online courses to help you learn how to become a grant writer. Online education is flexible for those who are looking to add grant writing as a new skill set on top of a full-time schedule (life, work, etc.) or level up their skills. Yes, even if you’re an in-house grant writer working with a nonprofit organization, professional training is applicable. You can check out a roundup of the best grant writing classes here.

Curious about how to break into grant writing without prior experience and with no added debt? The Global Grant Writers Collective is the only program of its kind to show you how to be a world-class grant writer while also building a flexible, fulfilling life you love.

Grant Writing vs. Non Profit Funding

We’ve covered all the basics, but there’s a bit more important context to understand as you launch your grant writing journey.

You know that grants provide funding to organizations to do good work in their communities, but how does this relate to the bigger concept of fundraising?

TL;DR — Grant Writing vs. Fundraising

Fundraising is how you raise money for your organization. Grant writing is one type of fundraising activity. Grant writing includes asking foundations or government entities for support while other fundraising activities usually target individual donors.

What is nonprofit fundraising?

Fundraising is generally defined as the process of soliciting financial support for a cause or project.

Central to the idea of fundraising is the collection of cash donations (although all kinds of assets can be donated). Donations can be collected immediately or over months or years, as is the case for long-term pledges of large donations to capital campaigns.

Fundraising is an essential way for most nonprofits to bring in revenue for their missions. Monies raised through general fundraising activities are often referred to as unrestricted funds and can be used for any expenses, such as staff salaries or rent. Donors can also require that their money be used in a specific (or restricted) way.

Who fundraises, and what do you need to do it?

Nonprofits are the most common group to fundraise. However, other groups like those adorable Girl Scouts selling their highly addictive cookies (our greatest weakness 😋) and people raising funds for mission trips are eligible for fundraising, too.

The only thing you technically need to fundraise is trust from your donors. But when you represent an organization, establishing trust means getting official with a 501(c)(3) designation and publishing an annual report.

Remember that fundraising isn’t so much about asking for money as it is about inviting others who have a passion for what you do to join you in your mission. Once you find them, you can do that work together—the beauty of fundraising!

How is grant writing different from fundraising?

As you can already tell, fundraising has a much broader definition than grant writing.

Fundraising can take many forms, and grant writing falls under that umbrella.

Fundraising usually refers to generating cash donations by:

• Building relationships with individual donors
• Holding fundraising events
• Making public appeals for donations and marketing your organization to the community

When you submit a proposal for a grant, it’s a one-on-one targeted pitch to a funder. You understand their past giving history. You’ve vetted them for mission alignment, and your project meets their goals for impact. The relationship between you and the funder is more formalized (though there is room for personal relationships over time).

With fundraising through individual donors, not through a grant, your approach is less formal. You likely don’t need a lengthy proposal, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have a plan. To fundraise from individual donors, you may be soliciting funds from individuals whose circumstances and philanthropic interests are largely unknown to you. Your approach can usually be applied to a wider audience, whereas grant writing targets one organization with specific guidelines.

In either case, relationship-building and strategies like prospect research are very important for nonprofits.

Then what do grant writing and fundraising have in common? In both cases, you need to do research, pursue leads, prepare talking points, evaluate opportunities, and cultivate relationships. The essence of both practices is the same. What is different is the target and approach.

With all the context out of the way, let’s get to the meat and potatoes. How do you actually write a grant proposal? What are the key steps to follow?

Here it is: our signature 7-step process for writing a winning grant. We’ll summarize the key points to understand for each step, but please check out our longer grant writing process explainer for a deep dive into the nitty gritty.

• Follow your North Star (the funding guidelines). A funder will provide guidelines for their grant that all applicants need to follow to be considered. Think of these as instructions. Guidelines can vary a lot from one grant to another, so it’s important to never take them for granted (see what we did there?). Download, print, read, and reread the guidelines.
• Prepare your narrative skeleton. Every grant should tell a story, but sitting down to write a prizewinning story on a blank page is a lot easier said than done. Give yourself an easier start by outlining your proposal based on the funding guidelines themselves. These are the questions you’ll have to answer, so bake them into your story from the very start. Simple bullet points will do here—no need to lock down full sentences just yet.
• Host a kick-off meeting. Gather everyone involved in the project to get on the same page. These are all the people who’ll provide you with the information you need for the grant as well as those who’ll be involved in running the project that it funds. Remember, everyone loves an organized meeting—send an agenda and your narrative skeleton in advance, then a summary of action items after, plus an invite to a progress check-in meeting.
• Finalize your grant budget. Next, you need to know how much the project you’re proposing will cost to complete—this budget will impact all other parts of your application. For example, funders often ask for a “budget narrative” that explains how you determined your final numbers. Some grants are structured to provide a percentage of your total costs rather than a flat sum. Grab a copy of our free grant budget template when you’re ready!
• Write your narrative fast and furiously. With your budget in hand, now’s the time to start putting pen to paper (or fingers to keys). Review your grant guidelines again, and start filling in your narrative skeleton with the details it needs to paint a compelling picture. We could go on and on with all the tips and hacks we’ve learned—check them out in Step 5 of our grant writing process guide.
• Prep your key attachments. Funders usually want more than just your perfectly written document. They often ask for additional attachments like separate budget documents, a resolution, and letters of support. Some attachments, like resolutions, can take a long time to get finalized, which is why understanding your guidelines early is so important so that you can get the ball rolling quickly.
• Review and submit your grant! Phew—you made it! But you’re not done yet. Reviewing and double-checking your proposal is a must, and it should be done by an independent reviewer who hasn’t been knee-deep in the process like you. Collect and discuss their feedback, make changes, review one last time, and then hit submit (ideally a day or two before the deadline). After the adrenaline wears off, take the afternoon off.

There’s no magic formula for writing a winning grant—your proposal should always be tailored to that unique grant and funder—but there are best practices and principles that give you a reliable roadmap to follow each time. Our 7-step grant writing process condenses a ton of them into one digestible process, but for an even closer look, join our free grant writing class!

Free Grant Writing Trainings

These how-to videos offer a smattering of webinar replays from our online grant writing training and feature topics such as working remotely, project management, fundraising, and how to utilize the Freedom of Information Act for federal funding.

Essential Grant Writing Tips for Newcomers

Once you’ve mastered the steps above, you’re probably wondering how to actually put rubber to the road and get started. Here are our top 5 recommendations:

• Find a real project to work on! Try identifying a real grant opportunity and approaching a nonprofit in your community. Or if that idea terrifies you—we get it—you can start slower with sample projects and training courses.
• Commit to excellence in project management. Grant writing is complicated, no way around it. Familiarize yourself with project management best practices and you can stay organized and energized.
• Fake it until you make it. Imposter syndrome is very real, and even experienced grant writers deal with it. But don’t let it hold you back. When you invest in your grant writing skills and get real-world practice, you have something worth sharing. Build some momentum and see how far you can go!
• Have a process mindset. When you pull the mask off the big hairy grant writing monster, you’ll find it’s really just a big stack of steps and processes—learnable steps and processes. Master these, and you’ll have a reliable framework for success.
• Don’t be stubborn (said with love). Trying to go it alone when learning grant writing leads to more mistakes and wasted time and money. Grant writing is a craft, after all, and there’s a lot to be gained from connecting with fellow grant writers.

P.S. Want more grant writing videos like this one? There’s more where that came from.

Check out our YouTube channel and give us a follow!

If you’re new to grant writing (or even considering turning it into a side hustle), it’s important to understand the big picture. Why do grants matter?

Grants make up a considerable chunk of nonprofits’ operating revenue.

According to Nonprofit Impact Matters , the nonprofit sector generates roughly 31.8% of its revenue from government sources (including both grants and paid contracts) and 2.9% from foundations in the form of grants.

It’s generally recommended that grant funding should provide 10-20% of a nonprofit’s total annual budget.

Funding from foundations is growing.

Total giving from foundations reached $105.21 billion in 2022, a 2.5% increase from the year before, and it’s part of a continued upward trend. Put another way, foundations provided 21% of total giving to nonprofits , or $1 of every $5 given to charity.

This is one of only a few areas that saw growth when adjusted for inflation. Family foundations (founded by families as a way to better manage their philanthropic activities) and corporate foundations have led the charge.

Grants are an important part of a safe revenue mix.

Nonprofits need to have diversified revenue streams so that they can rely on other ways to generate money when one shrinks or dries up.

Grants are an essential part of this equation, especially as a turbulent economy causes individual donors to rein in their spending. Case in point—the 2023 Giving USA Report found that giving from individuals declined 6.4% in 2022 (or 13.4%, when adjusted for inflation), a finding that sent shockwaves through the nonprofit world.

But when a nonprofit has a sturdy fundraising program, grant writing process, and an active grant opportunity pipeline, it becomes much easier to weather the storms and keep on doing the good work their communities need.

This leads us to a logical conclusion (which you might have already caught onto)...

Grant writing is an incredibly valuable skill because:

• It’s always in demand.
• It helps nonprofits secure the diverse funding they need to thrive.
• It drives on-the-ground good by funding projects and programs.

Competition for grants will only get tougher as giving from foundations grows and donor habits keep changing in the coming years.

The right unicorn of a grant writer can make a world of difference for nonprofit missions of all sizes and build the fulfilling career they want: a win-win!

Study up on grant writing best practices. Stretch your grant writing muscles by taking a free class or investing in more lessons, coaching, and community (like through the Global Grant Writers Collective ).

Whether you’re looking to win more funding for your nonprofit or break out into a new freelance field, anyone can succeed with grant writing with the right preparation and practice.

Want to learn more? We know you do. We recommend these additional resources:

• Can I Make Money as a Grant Writer?
• Three Possible Career Paths Through Grant Writing Training
• Why Start a Side Hustle Grant Writing?
• Grant Writing for Nonprofits: Our Top 10 Tips
• Tips for Writing Your First Draft of a Grant Narrative
• Top Mistakes Grant Applicants Make (And How to Avoid Them)
• A Review of the Top 10 Grant Databases

Free Grant Writing Class

Learn the 7-steps to write a winning grant application and amplify the impact you have on your community.

About the author...

Alexis Swenson serves as Unicorn Coach and Content Director for Learn Grant Writing. The product of small-town northwestern Minnesota, she is a self-declared “old soul” and grounded free spirit. She has secured over $2.7 million in grant funding in her career. Alexis writes to help people learn, laugh, and not be so hard on themselves.

Want To Learn More?

We made this video to answer your questions about how to build a career in grant writing without the fear of where you will find clients or the fear of failure. We cover the top three mistakes that keep people from making the leap from a soul-sucking job to something more meaningful.

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Listen to the audiobook, take free grant writing class, free grant writing resources, take our career fit quiz, take our business diagnostic audit quiz.