FAQs
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
I didn't just decide one day that I wanted to be a grant writer. I had written grant proposals in previous jobs. However, when I accepted the Executive Director position for a non-profit agency with an annual operating budget of $400,000 to serve six large rural jurisdictions providing 24/7 crisis response services, I needed to step up my game. I was able to double the operating budget within two years and had tripled the budget to $1.2 Million by year 10. I enjoy helping organizations assess their needs and developing a strategic plan. I enjoy being a part of something that is working toward making the world better. I know there are many worthy causes and many organizations that improve the qualify of life for our neighbors. This is important to me that I am able to use my skills to help.
- What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Proposal writing is never a guarantee that you will win the grant. You should look for grant writers with a track record of winning proposals and getting renewals or multi-year awards. Also, grant writers can have specialty areas. Some grant writers may be better at writing technology grants while others are better at writing grants for start up businesses or grants that will pay for staff salaries. These different areas can require different skills.
- What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
Grants are not free money. Funders expect something in return for the grant award. They expect outcomes, something to be better because of what they funded. I have 17 years of experience in program development and 10 years of experience in locating and writing winning proposals, and the follow up that is necessary to demonstrate positive outcomes.