Grant writer work to secure funding from various organizations and individuals by researching, writing, and submitting proposals. They are in charge of finding grant opportunities as well as developing and maintaining relationships with funders, donors, and others in the community.
What Does a Grant Writer Do?
Grant Writers typically work for nonprofit organizations as part of the development department to raise funds for the organization’s mission. They look for available grants and research their requirements to find opportunities that align with their organization’s mission. Grant Writers communicate with company leadership prior to applying for a grant to confirm that they are interested in collaborating with the foundation or company offering the grant.
Following the research phase, Grant Writers prepare several draughts using persuasive language and facts about their organization to explain why they should be funded and how they plan to use the funds.
Grant Writer Skills and Qualifications
To be successful as a Grant Writer candidate, you should have a diverse set of skills and qualifications. Outline the educational qualifications and certifications required by your organization for the position. You can also include non-technical skills and specific personality traits that you want in a successful candidate.
Here are some examples of Grant Writer skills and qualifications:
- A bachelor’s degree in English, communications, creative writing, or a related field is required (a master’s degree is preferred).
- A minimum of two years of grant writing experience.
- Excellent understanding of the proposal submission and fundraising processes.
- Capability to research and comprehend the organization’s programs and funding requirements.
- Strong research abilities and an understanding of information sources.
- Multitasking, organizational, and time management abilities are required.
- Capability to handle sensitive matters with the utmost integrity.
Grant Writer Job Description, Duties and Responsibilities
An effective Grant Writer should be well-versed in research and communication. They must be able to communicate clearly in both written and verbal communication, especially in grant proposals, as this is their primary responsibility. Include any special responsibilities that you expect the successful candidate to have.
The following are some examples of Grant Writer duties and responsibilities:
- Investigate and understand the organization’s history, structure, goals, programs, and financial needs.
- Grants for research are available from both government and non-government organizations.
- Create grant proposals and supporting documents based on the organization’s funding needs.
- Submit grant proposals for approval to grant coordinators.
- Respond to internal and external inquiries about proposals that have been written and submitted.
- Maintain positive interactions with funders and other stakeholders.
- Maintain grant-related records and submit grant-related reports.
Grant Writer Salary Expectations
A Grant Writer earns an annual salary of $42,961 on average. Indeed calculated this figure using salary information from hundreds of Grant Writers and job advertisements posted on Indeed over the last three years. A Grant Writer typically works for less than a year on average.
