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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.

Leonardo DiCaprio holds up a glass of champagne. The text reads: 'Everyone wants to win. Be the winner.'

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

Day-to-day activities of a grant writer

Photo by Scott Graham on UnsplashPhoto by Scott Graham on Unsplash

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

Did you know?

According to Instrumentl, it takes about 15-20 hours to complete an application for a foundation grant, while a federal grant could span over 100 hours.

The contributions of grant writers to society

A person holding small change in their hands. A piece of paper in their hand reads: 'make a change'.Photo by Katt Yukawa on Unsplash

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

Quiz

Which of these social issues can a grant writer help address by securing funds? Select all that apply:

Where can grant writers work?

A man and a woman in an office.Photo by Vitaly Gariev on Unsplash

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.

Did you know?

In its 2020 Grant Station, report, 61% of all grant seekers relied on one or two people in the writing and submission of grants.

How much does a grant writer make?

A person holding a pile of bills in front of their face.Photo by Alexander Grey on Unsplash

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.

Did you know?

In the US, the demand for grant writers will increase by 6% by 2028, with about 3,100 new jobs compared to 2018.

You may enjoy grant writing if you love...

  • 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.

Jim and Pam from The Office give each other an air high five from across the room.

Did you know?

There are 9 personality traits for an effective grant writer.

Avoid this career if you...

  • 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.

Jim from The Office shaking his head to signal 'No.'

Take Action

A woman says, 'I'm going to change the world.'

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.

License:

This Byte has been authored by

KO

Kayode Orolade

Research Assistant

M.A Educational Tech

English

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