Should I be a grant writer?

Grants are more than just free money — for grant seekers, they're a lifeline.

Lots of money is available for grant-funded opportunities but few grant seekers get the needed funding.

A grant writer prepares and writes proposals to secure funding for projects or programs for organizations, foundations, governments, or corporations. A grant writer needs not to only write the proposal, but to win the grant.

Unlock the secrets of successful grant writing. Your journey to making a difference starts here!

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Grant writers have busy, yet impactful daily activities to perform. This includes, but isn't limited to:

• Researching funding opportunities and analyzing requirements

• Writing grant proposals

• Cultivating and maintaining relationships with relevant stakeholders

• Liaising with fundraising and development departments in decision making

• Tracking application deadlines and follow-up grants

• Preparing progress reports and records

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The funds a grant writer secures must be used specifically, as outlined in the grant proposal. As such, grant writers contribute to society in many ways:

• Promotion of arts and culture, such as artists, museums, theatres, etc.

• Advancement of research, such as equipment, personnel, etc.

• Finding solutions to social issues, such as addiction, homelessness, poverty, etc.

• Support for the NGOs in making a difference in their communities

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Grant writers can work in many sectors, which are not limited to the following:

• Non-government organizations (NGOs): Secure funding for their programs and initiatives.

• Government agencies: Obtain funding for public projects and services.

• Educational institutions: Help universities, colleges, and research institutions seek funding for their research.

• Healthcare organizations: Secure grants for community health programs, medical research, or facility improvements.

• Consulting firms: Offer grant writing services for various clients.

• Freelance writer: Write grants on a contract basis.

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In the USA: The average annual salary for a grant writer is around $66,107, with a typical range between $52,719 and $76,039.

In Canada: The average annual salary for a grant writer is approximately CAD $77,500, with entry-level positions starting at CAD $54,930 and experienced professionals earning up to CAD $93,924.

• Making a difference: They make a significant impact on communities and societies.

• Intellectual challenge: Grant writers are strategic and analytical thinkers.

• Continuous learning: Grant writers are continuous learners, as grant requirements change.

• Flexibility: They can work remotely or as freelancers.

• Collaborative environments: They work with several stakeholders.

• Dislike high-pressure environments: Grant writing can be stressful when there's a lot at stake, as organizations depend on grants to fund critical programs.

• Dislike repetitive tasks: The structured, formulaic nature of grant writing may feel limiting.

• Struggle with handling rejection: Many grant applications are rejected, which can be discouraging, especially after putting in a lot of effort.

• Have little patience for bureaucracy: Navigating and dealing with various funding agencies’ procedures can feel rigid.

There are about 1.48 million and 86,000 tax-exempt NGOs in the United States and Canada respectively. These organizations rely on grant writers to achieve their missions. You can make a difference by deciding to be a grant writer.