How To Become a Grant Writer [+Responsibilities, Salary & Education]

5 min read
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Are you interested in turning your writing and editing skills into a fulfilling career that benefits the greater good? If so, becoming a grant writer may be the right path for you. Learn more about this important role, including a step-by-step guide to help you get started. You’ll discover everything from gaining the right education and experience to creating a standout portfolio. Whether you’re looking to make a career change or simply exploring a new field, read on to discover how you can embark on a successful career as a grant writer.

What Is Grant Writing?

Grant writing is the process of completing applications for financial funding provided by an institution such as a government agency, corporation, foundation or trust. The goal of a grant is to secure funding for specific projects, research, programs or initiatives.

There are many different types of grants:

  • Project or program grants: Designated for specific projects within an organization
  • Capital grants: Intended for infrastructure projects, such as renovations or building construction
  • Research grants: Allocated for specific projects, typically in medical, scientific or academic areas
  • Seed grants: Allocated to provide initial funding to start a new organization or program
  • Private foundation grants: Offered by private, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) with a specific mission, focus or goal, such as social services, health, education or community initiatives
  • Government grants: Issued by federal agencies or state or local governments
  • Corporate grants: Provided by businesses or companies to support community development or other important causes
  • Foundation grants: Provided to specific nonprofits, causes or individuals. Types of foundations include public, private, corporate, community and family
  • Individual grants: Awarded to specific individuals rather than organizations

What Does a Grant Writer Do?

A grant writer is often responsible for overseeing the entire grant process, from researching opportunities to submitting the final application. Let’s break down the responsibilities.

  1. Research funding opportunities. The first step in any grant writing process is to identify potential funding opportunities. The organization may already have specific grants in mind, but if not, certain resources like GrantStation, FundsNet, Candid’s Foundation Directory, and Grants.gov are good places to start. It’s also important for the grant writer to thoroughly read and understand the guidelines and requirements of each grant-writing opportunity and ensure the organization is eligible before starting the application.
  2. Write clear, compelling grant proposals. A grant writer must craft a persuasive, detailed and well-written proposal that clearly outlines the project’s timeline, objectives and expected goals. This includes developing all sections of the proposal, including an executive summary, statement of need, project description, budget and evaluation plan. This often means working closely with project teams, finance departments and other stakeholders to gather the necessary information.
  3. Gather any required supplementary materials. A grant writer may need to collect required supplementary application materials, such as financial statements, project data, resumes, organizational documents, letters of support or marketing materials.
  4. Review, edit and revise proposals. A great proposal is rarely achieved on the first try; it often requires multiple rounds of editing and revision for clarity, coherence and compliance with the grant guidelines. It’s also crucial to meticulously review all aspects of the budget to ensure it is detailed, accurate and aligns with both the project’s needs and the funder’s requirements.
  5. Submit applications. A grant writer will ensure that the application is complete and formatted correctly before submitting it by the deadline.
  6. Track proposal status and respond to requests for more information if needed. In some cases, additional information may be needed. After submitting a proposal, the grant writer monitors its status and responds to any requests from the funder.

Additional responsibilities include preparing and submitting progress and final reports to funders as required, keeping up to date on grant writing news and best practices, networking with other writers and professionals in the field and monitoring grant-funded projects to ensure adherence to objectives, timelines and budgets.

How Much Do Grant Writers Make?

A grant writer’s salary can vary widely due to the level of experience, education, the type of employer (nonprofit, government or private sector) and the complexity of the grants involved. Here are some salary examples to keep in mind (note that this information was compiled in September 2024):

  • According to Salary.com, the average grant writer’s salary in the U.S. is around $76,000 with a range between $61,000 and $94,000.
  • Zippia lists an average salary of $52,719 with entry-level grant writers making around $38,000.
  • ZipRecruiter reports that the average grant writer’s salary is around $66,107 with a wide range between $22,000 and $99,500.

Salaries can also be influenced by the size and budget of the organization, geographic location and specific industry. Grant writers in major metropolitan areas or those working for large organizations or prestigious institutions may earn higher salaries than those in less populated towns or working for smaller nonprofits.

Organizations That Hire Grant Writers

Grant writers are in demand across a wide variety of industries and sectors that need external funding to support projects, programs and operations. These include:

  • Nonprofits that focus on social services, healthcare, education or community development
  • K-12 schools, colleges and universities
  • Government agencies
  • Healthcare organizations such as hospitals, clinics and research institutions
  • Community and social service organizations
  • Arts and cultural institutions (museums, theaters, galleries)
  • Environmental and conservation groups
  • Foundations and charitable trusts
  • Research organizations
  • International development agencies
  • Public policy organizations
  • Advocacy groups and think tanks
  • Consulting firms
  • Corporations with philanthropic or community outreach departments

What Skills Do You Need To Be a Grant Writer?

While being a strong writer is essential, it’s also important to have a mix of analytical, organizational and project management skills. To be effective in a grant writing position, you need a combination of the following abilities and attributes:

  • Excellent written communication
  • Strong editing skills
  • Proficiency in research
  • Attention to details
  • Time management
  • Organization skills
  • Budgeting and financial planning
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Experience in planning, coordinating and executing tasks in a timely manner
  • Ability to work collaboratively
  • Networking and relationship-building
  • Knowledge of fundraising

Grant Writer Qualifications

To become a grant writer, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in English, communication, journalism, business or a related field. While a master’s degree is not always necessary, an advanced education in nonprofit management, public administration or a related field can be beneficial, especially in more senior-level roles. You may also want to consider certain certifications, such as from the Grant Professionals Certification Institute, and continuing education courses in grant writing and fundraising.

To gain experience in writing grant proposals, consider internships or volunteer work. Many positions require knowledge of grant writing software and tools, such as GrantHub and the Foundation Directory Online.

How Do I Become a Grant Writer?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

  1. Obtain a relevant bachelor’s degree: Aim for a degree in English, communications, journalism or a related field. If your degree is not writing-focused, ensure you supplement it with substantial writing experience through opportunities like internships, volunteer work or freelance projects.
  2. Gain experience: Volunteer to write grants for nonprofits or small organizations, or consider internships or entry-level positions related to grant writing or fundraising. You can also take grant writing courses or become certified by recognized institutions.
  3. Learn about grant writing and research: Familiarize yourself with various types of grants, the grant writing process and how to align an organization’s needs with the right funding sources.
  4. Build a portfolio: Develop a portfolio showcasing your successful grant proposals to highlight your skills. If you’re new to grant writing and lack completed proposals, include samples of strong writing to demonstrate your abilities.
  5. Network with professionals in the field: Join relevant associations such as the Grant Professionals Association, attend networking events, connect with others on LinkedIn and sign up for industry webinars and seminars.
  6. Apply for grant writing positions: Look for opportunities at nonprofits, educational institutions, government agencies and other organizations. Sites like Idealist, Work for Good, National Nonprofits, Best Writing and Mediabistro are helpful because they are specific to nonprofit or writing work.
  7. Continuously update your skills and knowledge: A skilled writer never stops improving. Stay engaged in professional development and continuing education to keep your skills sharp and up-to-date.

If you want to enhance your nonprofit leadership and management skills in order to elevate your grant writing career, consider the University of San Diego’s online Master of Science in Nonprofit Leadership and Management program. In 20 months, students sharpen their nonprofit skills with courses designed and taught by leading industry experts.


Frequently Asked Questions

Do grant writers make good money?

A grant writer’s salary depends on factors such as experience, location, responsibilities and the type of organization they work for. In the United States, as of September 2024, grant writers typically earn between $45,000 and $75,000 per year, with senior-level roles requiring more experience potentially earning up to $90,000 or more.

Is it hard to be a grant writer?

The role can be challenging, but you can succeed as a grant writer if you have perseverance and the right combination of skills and experience. Strong writing and editing skills are essential, but it’s also important to be proficient in research and understand the entire grant writing process, which includes budgeting, managing timelines and communicating with key stakeholders.

What credentials do you need to be a grant writer?

In most cases, a background in writing is preferred, if not required. Some positions may demand a bachelor’s degree in English, journalism or a related field, along with specific grant writing experience and/or familiarity with nonprofits. Earning certifications from professional organizations can also help demonstrate your expertise in the field.

How do you get started in grant writing?

Familiarize yourself with the grant writing process. Many online resources, books or courses will cover the basics. If you don’t have a background in writing, consider taking specific courses in grant writing or nonprofit management. Gain experience and build your writing, editing and research skills by securing an internship, volunteer work or an entry-level position. As you gain expertise, create a portfolio, and stay up-to-date with industry happenings by joining relevant associations and networking with other professionals in the field.


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