Maximizing Fundraising Potential: Working With a Grant Writer
Securing funding is one of the most crucial tasks for any nonprofit, and one key source of this funding is grants. Yet, the process of researching, writing, and managing grants is VERY time-consuming, complex, and highly competitive. For many nonprofits, the solution lies in working with a contracted grant writer.
Grants generally fall into two buckets:
Government Grants: Issued by local, state, or federal agencies, these grants tend to have more rigorous application processes and oversight (AKA lots of reporting and learning how to use antiquated internet portals).
Private or Foundation Grants: Offered by private organizations or foundations, these grants often focus on specific causes, such as education, health, or the arts.
Common Challenges
Grant writing is a specialized skill - we like to say that it’s not ‘rocket science’, but grant writing is a unique skill set that requires knowledge of both the funding organization’s priorities and the nuances of crafting a compelling proposal that meets the specific requirements of the funder. Common challenges nonprofits face in grant writing include:
Limited Time and Resources: Nonprofit staff are often stretched thin, juggling numerous tasks. Finding the time to research, write, and submit grant proposals can be overwhelming.
Lack of Expertise: Writing successful grant proposals requires a deep understanding of the application requirements, a clear articulation of the organization’s goals, and a well-researched budget. Many nonprofits lack the in-house expertise needed to create competitive proposals.
One of the most frequent questions we get is, "Can't I just copy and paste from a previous proposal?" Technically, yes, but this is not the best strategy (and often doesn’t lead to success). Each proposal needs to be tailored to the specific questions and priorities of the funder. We understand that it can be frustrating! Why don’t all funders use the same application process? We’re not sure, and we wish we could change that too!
Complex Application Processes: Each grant has its own set of guidelines, deadlines, and reporting requirements. Keeping up with these details, especially when applying to multiple funding sources, can be daunting. It’s also hard to do this well when you are wearing so many other hats!
How a Contracted Grant Writer Can Help
Hiring a contracted grant writer is an investment in your nonprofit’s future. Whether your organization is new to the world of grants or simply looking to improve its success rate, a professional grant writer brings several advantages.
Here are a few of the primary benefits:
1. Expertise and Experience
Grant writers are specialists who understand the intricacies of the grant-writing process. We know how to match your organization’s needs with the right funders, and we have a lot of experience crafting proposals that stand out in a competitive field. A skilled grant writer can help your organization:
Identify funding opportunities that align with your mission.
Develop a clear and compelling narrative that highlights your organization’s strengths.
Create a detailed, realistic budget that demonstrates fiscal responsibility.
2. Time Efficiency
By outsourcing grant writing to a professional (The Nonprofit Strategy Group), your nonprofit’s staff can focus on what they do best—serving your mission. A contracted grant writer can handle the time-consuming tasks of research, writing, editing, and submission, allowing your team to maintain their regular responsibilities without added stress.
3. Cost-Effective Solutions
For many nonprofits, hiring a full-time grant writer isn’t financially feasible and most Development Directors aren’t hired for this particular skill set. Contracted grant writers offer a flexible solution, as we can be hired on a project-by-project basis or on a retainer. This allows nonprofits to access high-level expertise without committing to the cost of a permanent employee.
Tips for Working with a Contracted Grant Writer
To maximize the benefits of working with a grant writer, consider the following tips:
Be Transparent: Share your organization’s history, mission, goals, and financials openly. A grant writer can only create a compelling proposal with the right information. Typically we ask for the following when getting started with new grant-writing clients:
Org Chart or List of Staff
Bylaws
Strategic Plan (current and/or previous)
Annual Budget (including revenue streams)
Logic Model or Programming Goals/Objectives
Copy of successful grant narrative (if applicable)
Program Descriptions and Evaluation Data
Board Roster w/Professional Qualifications & Terms
Board Policies & Procedures or Board Manual
Fund Development or Fundraising Plan
Summary of results from outcomes data and progress on strategic plan
End-of-year financials (last completed Fiscal Year)
Maintain Communication: Keep the lines of communication open throughout the project. Regular updates will ensure that the proposal accurately reflects your organization’s needs and achievements.
Set Clear Expectations: Discuss timelines, fees, and the scope of work at the outset. TNSG utilizes a Memorandum of Understanding (contract) that outlines the requirements for both parties. Having a written agreement will ensure that both parties understand their responsibilities.
It's also essential to manage expectations. Hiring a grant writer doesn't guarantee you'll secure grants automatically—unfortunately, that's just the reality. We wish we could guarantee it! It’s our absolute goal to secure our clients' funding, it’s why we do it!
We are very happy to answer your questions through a free 30-minute consultation. Schedule one today! https://calendly.com/hello-thenonprofitstrategygroup/30min?month=2024-09