How to Become Certified Grant Writer

A grant writer works with non-profit organizations, for-profit businesses and individuals seeking government and private funding. Levels of certification for a grant writer are based on experience and training receives. Learn the three different ways of becoming certified.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. A Completion of Training certificate is given to individuals who participate in a short course over viewing resources available and basic grant procedures. The course is usually held over a 2- to 3-day time period. Programs are commonly held by large non-profit groups seeking volunteers for their grant department or though a community college. Grant writers often seek this type of certification to gain better understanding of obtaining funding for their own non-profit projects. At this level, most will need to gain experience before being seen as skilled grant writing.

2. Earn a training certificate by passing a training program, held through community colleges and at many universities as part as ongoing education classes. Training involves 3 to 6 months of involvement, covering the basic structure of grants, along with how to negotiate contracts. This level of grant writer usually works with small organizations or may work under a more experienced grant writer in largely funded grants.

3. A professionally certified grant writer has to complete at least 2 to 5 years of on-the-job experience and has earned at least an associates degree from an accredited school. The writer must also complete a 4-hour rigorous test over several subject areas of grant writing. A professionally certified grant writer often is head of large projects and has more choices when it comes to finding companies to work for.

4. To gain more information about grant writing, classes, coursework and job listings, contact the Association of Fundraising Professionals by writing to 4300 Wilson BLVD, Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22203 or you can call [phone]. All inquiries should be directed the the New Member's Department (see Resouces).

Tips & Warnings

• Certifications are helpful but not required. Grant writers only need experience to provide services.
• Many staff grant writers are willing to teach another the basics in exchange for volunteering. Community-based programs, hospitals and schools all regularly seek volunteers.
• Professional certified grant writers, on average, earn 20 to 30 percent more then those not certified.
• Joining organizations such as the Association of Fundraising Professionals will assist you in keeping up with available funding and procedures.

Resources

• Association of Fundraising Professionals

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