In today’s fast-paced world, most established businesses and nonprofits hire professional grant writers to get the funding they need. They know that grant writing is a time-consuming process, usually best left to someone with the know-how to complete the job and get a favorable response. In addition, they know the rules change with every grantor. The criteria, assessments, eligibility, and content style are all at the whim of your funder, and no two are alike. Businesses and nonprofits need grant writers who are versatile enough to handle any proposal. So, what’s all the hubbub?
Well, business owners and nonprofit CEOs know the benefits of hiring a seasoned grant writer but is there another prospect on the horizon? Maybe so. Grant Consultants are currently trending. The two job titles are connected but are they different? What’s more, are those differences enough to warrant an organization to change from grant writer to grant consultant? An even better question might be, is one job title more lucrative than the other? One thing is sure, the emergence of grant consultants may represent the healthy increase in competition that breeds expanding education, job know-how, and the drive to succeed. With that being said, GrantWriterTeam is here to make sure our readers know exactly what to expect from grant writers and grant consultants so that you can make a qualified decision as to which will work better for you and your organization.
What’s in a Name?
Grant writer/grant consultant; it’s potato/potahto, isn’t it? There can’t possibly be a difference, right? The answer might surprise you. It’s both yes and no. Listen up, grant writers and grant seekers alike: There is no college degree for grant writing or grant consulting, so the title you adopt is really up to you. In academia, grant writing is a course you can take at any university (usually in the rhetoric department) and you can earn a certificate for your efforts. And, of course, there are countless courses you can take online, videos to watch, and even books on the subject. It’s also a nice addition to your CV. But remember, you don’t actually need a degree to write grants. It’s more about how you apply your knowledge. So, if you want to be a grant writer, find the way it best suits you and start writing those grant applications. The field is wide open! However, if you want to refine your process and make yourself indispensable to each specific client, you might consider changing your title to grant consultant. Let’s look at a breakdown of each job title and their list of duties.
A Grant Writer by Any Other Name
Most grant writing is done as freelance work. So, when an organization needs a solid grant writer, they simply hire outside the company. Although, it should also be noted that there are smaller nonprofits that task an employee or employees with finding, researching, and writing grant applications. These employees are not full-time grant writers and usually have other duties as well. We’re here for that too; if it works, don’t fix it. But what are the responsibilities of a freelance grant writer? Good question, let’s make a list. And remember, the duties listed here are not set in stone. Some grant writers offer these and more, while other may only offer a few of the following:
- Research: Every good grant writer, worth their salt will have a database or two that they regularly peruse for grants. GrantWatch is one such popular database.
- Data Collection and Analysis: Your grant writer will work with you to ensure they have all the information they need about your organization. Those vital details can make or break your chances of success.
- Writing the Grant Applications: The most important part of your writer’s job is to write and develop grant proposals. They should be tailored to meet the requirements of each funding source.
- Budget: Your writer needs full access to your books in most cases. Without a solid budget in place, no grant application will be a winner.
- Editing and Proofreading: Mistakes, missing details, and incorrect information can tank a rant application regardless of how great your need is. A good grant writer edits and proofreads accordingly.
- Deadlines: Missing a deadline is usually the end of the grant process. Deadlines must be strictly adhered to and a solid grant writer knows this.
- Grant Management and Follow-Up: As a last step, your grant writer can follow up with your potential funders for results. Keep in mind that negative results are far more common but quite useful, especially during follow-up.
It’s plain to see that grant writing is no task for the faint of heart. It takes time, effort, knowledge of your subject, and the ability to write and follow direction.
Would Smell as Sweet if They Were a Grant Consultant
Let’s consider that if you really want to step up your game (and let’s face it, you’re probably already doing a bang-up job as a grant writer if you’re hitting all your marks), there are some duties and tasks you might want to add to your repertoire. And, if consulting is a step up from mere writing then let’s acknowledge what you already do. As a consultant, you perform all the tasks already outlined for grant writers but there is so much you could be doing! The transition from writer to consultant is mostly about professionalism and rebranding yourself. The following are some tasks you might consider offering your clients:
- Strategic Planning: Participate in strategic planning to align grant-seeking activities with organizational goals and priorities.
- Collaboration: Work with staff, program managers, and other stakeholders to gather necessary information and develop a stable of comprehensive grant applications.
- Training and Mentorship: A grant consultant has the opportunity to take a more active role, providing guidance and training to staff on grant writing and management best practices.
- Networking and Donor Relations: A grant consultant may attend conferences, workshops, and meetings to cultivate new relationships with potential funders and stay updated on industry trends. In addition, they should maintain relationships with existing funders.
- Compliance Monitoring: Ensure that all grant activities comply with funding agency guidelines and organizational policies.
- Research: Every good grant writer, worth their salt will have a database or two that they regularly peruse for grants. GrantWatch is one such popular database.
- Data Collection and Analysis: Your grant writer will work with you to ensure they have all the information they need about your organization. Those vital details can make or break your chances of success.
- Budget: Your writer needs full access to your books in most cases. Without a solid budget in place, no grant application will be a winner.
- Editing and Proofreading: Mistakes, missing details, and incorrect information can tank a rant application regardless of how great your need is. A good grant writer edits and proofreads accordingly.
The Bottom Line
It’s clear that grant writers and grant consultants are two sides of one coin. So, if you’re a grant writer, consider stepping up to the plate and refining your process. The same goes for businesses and nonprofits; go with what works best for you. And don’t forget, GrantWriterTeam always has space waiting for you to leave a classified ad to hire the grant specialist who will work best for you.
About GrantWriterTeam
Are you a nonprofit or small business in need of some help? If you are searching for grants but are feeling overwhelmed, hiring a grant writer may be the perfect choice for you! Grant writers thoughtfully grant opportunities and consider the pros and cons of applying and the chance of success. Consider your writer an extension of your organization. Your grant-seeking success is our priority at GrantWriterTeam.
Disclaimer: There is no guarantee that grants will be awarded as a result of this information.
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