Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have a grant writing certificate?

Yes, I have a Freelance Grant Writer Certificate from Grant Writing and Funding. I have several other certifications as well, including Nonprofit Essentials, Grant Seeking Essentials, Fundraising Essentials and Financial Management Essentials from NonProfitReady, an initiative of the Cornerstone Foundation. In addition,  I am a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Can you guarantee the grant will get awarded?

Although completing each step from taking the Grant Readiness Assessment to finding the right opportunities to submitting professionally written proposals increases chances of funding, it is never guaranteed. Many factors come into play when applying for grants—a funding agency make have limited funds or change funding priorities last minute. Also, it often takes time to build a relationship with a foundation. Some foundations do not award grant funding until a nonprofit has applied three times.

What is the return on investment?

It goes without saying that if a grant gets awarded, you will gain valuable funding for your project. However, even if a grant does not get awarded, a written grant proposal can be used as a template for future applications. Not only that, applying for grants help build valuable relationships with funding agencies that lead to future awards. Funding agencies may even provide feedback that you can use for future applications.

Even outside of the grant funding process, a written grant application provides your organization with a program plan, a solid budget and written content that you can use in other fundraising and marketing materials, on your website, on your social media pages, etc.

Can you work for free?

My service is not a free service as I have specialized skills that benefit your nonprofit. My rate is $30 per hour. However, I can provide you with a 20-minute Zoom consultation at no charge.

Can you work on commission?

Writing grant proposals on commission is unethical and against best practices in the nonprofit sector. It is also against federal regulations, which many private foundations follow as well. Grant funding must be used entirely for expenses that are incurred after the grant is awarded.

What is your success rate?

My grant writing success rate is I have applied to over $100,000 total in seed funding, general operations, and capital improvement funding for my clients. Through my efforts, I have been able to help nonprofits get organized, build relationships with foundations and secure funding.