BUYER BEWARE: The Title of “Grant Writer” is Easily Claimed

Over the past couple of months, I have chronicled the importance of being grant-ready: as a grant seeker, whether as an individual or an organization to pursue funding for your projects and programs. To support others in pursuit of their missions, visions, and dreams, this week’s Big Mama’s Playbook includes new funding opportunities! Feel free to share this resource! As the perpetual educator I am, it seems that I’ve been spending the summer months in my old teaching mode; kind of like offering an online summer school course on fund development, nonprofits as a business, and becoming grant-ready. If you are new to grant writing, I hope that you find my posts, tips, and resources helpful. This post also includes a checklist on finding a good grant writer.

Grant writing is a specialized skill. It combines elements of persuasive writing, critical

thinking skills, it takes strategic, thorough, and sometimes painstaking project planning.

There’s an allure of being a grant writer that lies in the potential impact one can make -

including the flexibility of the role, and often, the promise of a substantial pay day. For

example, just one pay day for me resulted in a downpayment on a house! (I mentioned that to a student, who instantly became interested in learning more about it!) Started writing grants. Grant writing is a lucrative opportunity, consequently, many individuals are drawn to the title. Some come from related fields like journalism, technical/creative writing, or policy; others might have no writing background at all. Yet not everyone who claims the title deserves it.

The Nightmares & Pitfalls of Inexperienced Grant Writers

In the nonprofit world, many organizations especially for promising startups, grant writers

are often seen as the “know it all, be all” when it comes to securing vital funding. Their role can be the difference between basic survival to thriving - tapping into unrealized potential.

However, not everyone who calls themselves a grant writer is a good grant writer. This reality

can have significant implications for individuals and organizations relying on grant funds.

Grant writers are in high demand. Just check the listings on sites like Upwork, Indeed, and

Idealist. Unfortunately, the demand for grant writers means that many individuals enter the

field without the necessary skills or experience. Having a basic understanding of grant writing, even when you don’t want to be one can be useful and save you some time, stress and money. Here are some common red flags or pitfalls of inexperienced or unqualified grant writers:

1. Lack of Understanding: An inexperienced grant writer may not fully understand the funding landscape or the specific requirements of different funders.
   

2. Poor Writing Skills: Effective grant writing requires a high level of writing and editing

   proficiency. Poor grammar, unclear narratives, and lack of coherence can all quickly

   undermine the credibility of a proposal.
   

3. Neglecting Guidelines: New grant writers may overlook or misunderstand the grant

   guidelines. This can result in proposals being disqualified before they are even read.
   

4. Overpromising/Underperforming: Inexperienced grant writers may make unrealistic

   promises or inflate your capabilities. No matter who made the final decision to overpromise, this can lead to problems down the line if the organization and/or grant writer cannot deliver.
   

5. Inadequate Communication and Follow-Up: Securing a grant is just one step. Good grant writers can help navigate communications with funders. Other tasks may include follow-up, reporting requirements, and relationship-building with funders. Neglecting these aspects can jeopardize future funding opportunities.

Charm is deceptive. The title of "grant writer" can be easily claimed! The skills and expertise required to be a good grant writer are not as easily acquired. And it hurts me to my core to know that there are people preying on individuals and organizations who are doing good, commendable work and need funding. I have watched individuals and organizations across the country build their programs from shoestring budgets, by learning how to secure funding from diverse sources. Through this work, I strive to make a difference. No matter how “small” we all can carve out a place and space to make a difference. Can your passions make a positive change in others’ lives?

“Do your little bit of good where you are; it's those little bits of good put together that

overwhelm the world....” - Desmond Tutu (1931 - 2021)

Next week, I will highlight some ways to deal with rejection in grant writing. Even

experienced grant writers like me are not successful 100% of the time, although we strive to

maintain a high quality. Remember there are some things that are beyond the grant writer’s

control once the proposal is submitted! Be diligent in your selection process to ensure you

hire someone who not only has the necessary skills but also aligns with your mission and

values. By doing so, you can significantly increase your chances of securing the funding you

need to grow and thrive. Don’t forget to download the checklist! Big Mama’s Playbook has new grant listings! Please share this resource with others!

Weekly words of wisdom:

Work for a cause, not for applause. Live life to express, not to impress. Don’t strive to make

your presence noticed, just make your absence felt.

- (unknown)