Government grants aren't always easy to obtain. There are many qualified and worthy individuals and organizations competing for them. That's why a well-written and persuasive application can make all the difference. Drafting a grant proposal, however, is no short order. Many organizations turn to professional grant writers when applying for government grants. Grant writing is a booming industry, and you're likely to find a great number of candidates. To get the most for your money, and improve your chances of getting the grant, here is some advice on how to find, and utilize, the right grant writer.
You should look at selecting a grant writer like a job interview. You're hiring someone to do a job for you, and there are questions you should ask to make sure you choose the best candidate. Begin by finding out about the writer's experience with government grants, particularly their areas of expertise. Some grants are offered by private foundations, so it's better to find someone who specializes in private grants. Also, the ideal candidate would have had past success in writing proposals for your particular area or program. Additionally, ask about how many other clients the writer currently has. Someone with a lot of clients might not dedicate as much time and attention to your proposal. On the other hand, you'll have to weigh the possibility that someone without many clients isn't as successful or experienced. You'll also want to review some writing samples and encourage the candidates to submit letters of recommendation.
One tip for making successful use of a grant writer is to do the research and planning yourself. Remember, this is professional writer, not an expert on your organization. The writer's experience with grants will make for a better finished product, but you are the best person to explain how your organization works and decide how the funds will be used. Sit down with the grant writer and thoroughly explain who you are and why you want this grant. It's then the grant writer's job to state these goals eloquently. You'll also want to be sure that you give the writer sufficient time to do a good job. Proposals for government grants can be written in as little as one month, but it's better to give the writer time to write several drafts, as well as to make revisions based on your feedback. The more complicated the request or organization, the more time your writer will need.
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