Grant Writing Services

Grant writers research funding opportunities and write compelling proposals to help nonprofits, educational institutions, and some businesses secure grants from foundations, corporations, and government agencies.

Success requires excellent writing, research skills, understanding grantor priorities, and presenting organization's work compellingly aligned with funder goals.

Pricing models include project fees ($1,000-10,000+ per proposal depending on grant size), hourly rates ($50-150), retainers (monthly fee for ongoing grant research and writing), or percentage of grant awarded (5-10%, though some nonprofits and funders frown on this).

Startup costs are minimal - website, grant database subscriptions (Foundation Directory, GrantWatch), and reference materials under $2,000.

Building client base happens through nonprofit networks, fundraising associations, referrals, and marketing to organizations with development needs but no dedicated grant writer.

Revenue depends on volume of proposals and win rates.

Writing 2-3 grants monthly can generate $4,000-15,000 depending on complexity.

Operating costs include database subscriptions and continuing education.

Challenges include rejection rates (most grant applications aren't funded), payment only when grants win (if percentage-based), ensuring organizations are actually competitive for grants they pursue, and working with organizations' data and storytelling.

Success requires understanding funder perspectives, compelling storytelling, data presentation, persistence, and managing client expectations about win rates.