Most frequent questions and answers
Hourly

This is available for short-term or long-term work. The hourly rate is typically $35 to $50 based on hourly basis. Invoices will be sent every two weeks for large projects and once per month for small projects, with payment due within 15 days.

Project

This is also available for short-term or long-term work. The specific fee is determined by the scope of work and the length of the project. Usually, one-half the fee is payable upon signing the contract and the balance is due within 15 days of completion of the work.

Retainer

This is best suited for on-going work, although no minimum time period is required. A range of hours per month is agreed to, and the fee is paid on a monthly basis. Flexibility and cost savings are the primary benefits of such an arrangement.

It has been 13 consecutive years, since the start of writing proposals and providing consultation.

The answer to this question usually ranges from four weeks to three months and is usually heavily dependent on how much information is available to the grant writer to begin the grant writing process. We determine how long it takes based on pages of narrative and how long it takes to collect the additional information that is needed for the forms, budgets, and other attachments.

The answer to this question usually ranges from 3 to 6. While some grant writers are comfortable writing multiple grants at the same time, we focus on one federal project at a time.

Since 2008, we have assisted with securing over $24,000,000 in funding with a success rate of 68% federally, and 85% state and foundation.

Industry Knowledge. A good grant writing consultant will have their finger on the pulse of local giving.

Objectivity. An outside consultant will have a more objective view of your agency you’re your program strengths and weaknesses. They will have the freedom to tell your agency’s leadership how they can improve in order to be more competitive without fear of problems on the job.

Federal Grant Experience. If you are seeking federal grants, our consultants have considerable experience in this area and have served as grant reviewers for the federal government. Applying for federal grants will generally be much more complex than private grants, and our consultants can bring valuable insight into this process providing a higher chance at success.

Networking Opportunities. Grant consultants are often intimately involved with numerous non-profits and can help your agency to see potential collaborations and partnerships.

Fresh Approach. Consultants write for many different types of agencies, rather than writing about the same topic on an ongoing basis. This variety allows us to bring a fresh approach and enthusiasm to each new proposal.

Management Experience. Grant writing consultants typically have a strong  background in several key areas of non-profit management. We are knowledgeable about programs and best practices, have insight into creating well developed budgets, and have experience designing meaningful and measurable outcomes. We often work closely with non-profit boards, and many have served as leaders of non-profit organizations. All of these are key areas of knowledge
needed for successful grant writing.

Cost Savings. In almost every practical application, it is less expensive to hire a grant writer or grant writing firm on a case-by-case basis then it is to pay a grant writer a salary and benefits on an ongoing basis. When you outsource, you only pay a grant writer when that person is working.

Grant management is required for each and every type of grant, including the following:
• Start-up Grants: These cover the costs of launching a new project or organization.
• Capital Grants: These generally are used for facilities, construction, buildings, or equipment.
• General Operating Grants: Also known as unrestricted support, these grants cover daily operations, including salaries and technology, rather than a specific program or project.
• Program or Project Grants: These are specific plans that are part of your core mission.
• Planning Grants: Unlike program grants, these help you map out what you want to do, and they typically result in a project that will help carry out your plan.
• Technical Assistance Grants: These are used to help your organization be more effective in such areas as financial management, strategic communications, fundraising, or evaluation