Common Misconceptions About Using a Grant Writer

I met with a non-profit who inquired about applying for grants.  I explained the grant writing process to him. 

🗣️ His response “Wait, I have to be involved in this process?  Can’t I tell you what I want and then you take care of everything else?  I’m busy, I do not have time to be involved.”

🗣️ My response “Yes, I am going to need your help to successfully complete the grant writing process.”

Here are some common misconceptions about getting a grant writer

1.     Grant writers can guarantee funding

✅ Fact: Grant writers can substantially increase your odds of securing funding, but can never guarantee it.

2.     Grant writers can handle the whole grant writing process alone

✅ Fact: Grant writers need the help of staff in the organization to complete the grant application process

3.     Grant writers can write one proposal and send it to multiple funders

✅ Fact: Each funder has its own set of requirements and guidelines the funded must adhere to.

4.     Grant writers should get paid on commissions

✅ Fact: This is viewed as unethical because it causes conflict of interests.  Grant writers are generally paid a flat fee or hourly fee.

5.     As a nonprofit leader, I don’t need to know anything about grants

✅ Fact: If your organization is applying for grants, you need to have a basic understanding of grants so you know what you are getting involved in and what is expected of your nonprofit.