Whether you’re a startup owner or running a non-profit organization, crafting a well-researched and compelling grant proposal is incredibly important. Having an experienced grant writer on board can make all the difference.
But before sharing your project details, make sure the proposal writer has what it takes to make big things possible. Here are five things you should look for in a professional grant proposal writer:
1. Knowledge of the Grant Process
Let’s get one thing straight: You can’t hire someone who writes college application essays for your grant proposal. Requests for proposals (RFPs) come laden with technical and industry-specific jargon. Only a professional can decipher such nuances.
You need a proposal writer who knows the ins and outs of the grant-making process. They should be able to break down the vision and goals of different funding organizations. They would know exactly what funders are looking for, increasing your odds of success.
2. Experience in Writing Winning Grant Proposals
Next, consider the experience of a grant proposal writer. Specifically ask, how many successful grant proposals have they written? A proposal that clearly and precisely defines your business prospects is more likely to get selected.
Remember that professional grant proposal writers can turn a basic business idea into something unique. They use storytelling and persuasive arguments to make your proposal stand out.
3. Attention to Detail and Research Skills
Only a fraction of the grants submitted receive funding. Inconsistent and non-compliant proposals are the two common reasons. Professional writers don’t let that happen.
They spend days, if not weeks, understanding your project’s essence. Then, they do a deep dive into the latest grant-making trends. Finally, professional grant writers craft proposals tailored to a funder’s requirements.
Attention to detail means your proposal gets done the first time around. No need for excessive revisions and exhausting back-and-forth.
4. Collaborative Skills
Hiring a grant writer is not about giving control. It simply means delegating a critical task to its subject expert. That said, you need to oversee every step of the process.
Make sure the writer you’re working with is a team player who’s excellent at collaborating. They should be able to work with other team members. A writer will have thorough legal and financial knowledge of your project, so nothing gets left out. Your final proposal will be consistent.
Pro tip: Assess the oral and written communication skills of a grant proposal writer. They should be able to ask strategic questions, provide clear reports, and incorporate feedback.
5. Ability to Meet Deadlines
The grant-making process is pretty intense. Between conducting marketing research and understanding a funder’s guidelines, it is easy to miss out on important dates. This is why a professional grant proposal writer must have the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
They break down the entire process into smaller tasks with set deadlines. This will minimize delays and make sure everything gets finished on time. Above everything, you will have a clear understanding of the project’s progress and timeline.
