How to Become a Foundation Grant Writer

You need a specific set of skills to become a foundation grant writer.

Foundation grant writing can be a lucrative career that allows you to use your writing and research skills to secure funding for different organizations of interest to you. Not everyone has the ability to conduct research and then to turn the results into well-written requests for funds, which is why foundations choose to hire professional writers for this purpose. Foundations are constantly in need of new sources of funding, so grant writers are always in demand. Foundation grant writers need impeccable spelling and grammar skills as well as the ability to research and to seek new and appropriate funding sources.

Instructions

1. Enroll in a course or certificate program on grant writing to increase your value to foundations that may be hiring if you have not yet done so. Although not absolutely necessary, if you are seeking a position as a foundation grant writer, it helps to have at least some background focus on writing and grammar. Some grant writers have English degrees. Many universities offer either grant-writing courses as part of English curricula or certificates specifically in grant writing.

2. Contact several foundations of interest to you, and offer your grant-writing services on a voluntary basis. This approach serves two purposes. First, you are able to practice your research and writing skills, and you will have completed grants to add to your portfolio. Second, you will help organizations that have meaning to you and possibly start relationships with them.

3. Search for opportunities to write foundation grants on a freelance or contract basis. This plan allows you to build your profile while establishing connections with local foundations. You also learn more about the types of funds available as well as diversify the types of foundations you have experience writing for. Establishing this relationship with several foundations makes it easier for you obtain a full-time permanent position, if that is what you seek. Foundations are more likely to hire writers full-time if they already know their work.

References

• U.S. Government Grants: Grant Writing Careers
• Funds for Writers: Grant Careers
• Job Profiles: Grant Writer/Consultant Job Profile