Truly great writing is the culmination of passion for your topic and writing skill. The student who writes a compelling essay for school is driven by interest in their subject. The historian who focuses on Civil War nonfiction clearly values historical accuracy. The novelist writing a mystery thriller is captivated by the concept of solving puzzles. The same holds true for grant writers. A good grant writer is motivated by the desire to help nonprofits secure the funding they need to thrive. Still passion alone is not enough. GrantWriterTeam has the following Essential Writing Tips gleaned from some very dedicated professional grant writers to help take your writing to the next level.
8 Essential Writing Tips from the Masters
1. Research Thoroughly
Effective grant writing starts with solid research. To build a strong, persuasive proposal, you must understand the funder, the community need, and your organization’s role in addressing it. This includes gathering data, reviewing similar funded projects, and studying the grantmaker’s priorities.
The more detailed your research, the more compelling your case. Go beyond surface-level facts, include statistics, historical context, and real-world impact. A well-researched grant application demonstrates credibility and increases the chance of success. When you think you’ve done enough research, dig a little deeper. It often makes all the difference!
2. Write with Purpose
Every piece of writing should have a clear goal. Before you begin, define your purpose in one sentence. If you can’t, you’re not ready. Writing should serve more than just making money. It should inform, persuade, entertain, or inspire. Passion and clarity lead to success!
3. Know Your Audience
Who is your audience when you write a grant? Yes, you’ve guessed it; it is the funder. And knowing who they are is essential to writing a proposal that makes the connection you need. Each grantmaker has unique values, goals, and funding priorities. Your job is to show how your organization aligns with them.
Before you begin writing, research the funder thoroughly. Review their mission statement, past grant recipients, and application guidelines. Speak their language. Emphasize the outcomes they care about. The more you tailor your proposal to their interests, the more likely they are to see your project as a good fit.
4. Eliminate Distractions
Successful writers set aside dedicated, uninterrupted writing time. Many use digital tools to block distractions, ensuring focus. Establish a routine that allows you to write without interruptions.
5. Read and Listen Regularly
Great writers are also avid readers and listeners. Read across genres, listen to podcasts, and watch interviews. Exposure to diverse content expands vocabulary, sparks ideas, and fuels creativity.
6. Write Consistently
Writing is a habit. Even when not working on a project, keep writing. Start a side project, journal, or experiment with different styles. The key is to stay engaged—writers write.
7. Use Strong Language
Powerful writing uses precise, active language. Strong verbs make sentences vivid. For example, instead of “run,” use “streaked.” Avoid passive voice—it weakens writing. Stronger, clearer sentences keep readers engaged.
8. Seek Feedback
Writers often overlook their own mistakes. A fresh perspective helps refine clarity and structure. Have a trusted editor or peer review your work. Honest feedback makes writing stronger.
Final Thoughts
These tips provide a foundation for better writing. Identify which ones apply to your work and integrate them into your routine. Writing is a continuous learning process—keep improving, keep writing.
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! 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.