Frequently Asked Questions grant writing services

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I can assist your organization identify a grant that meets your mission and vision, develop a funding strategy plan, gather supporting data, write the narrative to specific guidelines of the funder, assemble supporting documents such as letters of support, and draft the budget while working with your organization to achieve the best fit.

My area of expertise is in researching and writing federal grant proposals and reports focused on health care access and healthy communities. I have worked with governmental public health and non-profits throughout my career. 

My experience includes:

• facilitating planning sessions
• conducting training
• leading community assessments
• composing professional documents and reports, including grant progress reports, organizational policies and procedures, by-laws, strategic plans, resumes, and community assessments

I regularly monitor grants.gov for released or forecasted opportunities that are potentially applicable to organizations and programs. I also subscribe to funding announcements from several federal agencies. I will work with your staff to identify your funding priorities and build a funding strategy plan. 

The time is takes varies depending on several factors. Federal grant applications are usually lengthy and intricate and require 6-8 weeks to complete. Private foundation grants usually require less narrative and documentation, so a minimum of 3 weeks is preferred.

The time can also vary depending on how "grant ready" the organization is. Keep reading for tips to prepare your organization for grant success. 

 There are many steps that an organization can take to prepare for grant success. 

•  Make sure your organization's mission, vision, and strategic plan are up to date.  These can drive the funding priorities and narrow your focus for a more successful application.
• Be current on your policies and procedures, including a grant administration policy and solid accounting principles.
• Keep a current master list of your board members, including contact information and basic demographics. Some grants may require you to have an actual client or representative of the target population you serve as a participating board member.
• Conduct a community needs assessment. Look at primary and secondary sources of data. Look at trends over time for poverty, housing, food insecurity, or any other data point that is related to your work. Take note of your community served, your client pool, your current resources and gaps in those resources. This can provide a strong case for funding to fill those gaps. 
• Form active partnerships with community organizations that serve your geographic area and/or client population. Most grants require applicants to show active partnerships with documented, successful outcomes.

Gather the basic set of documents usually required for grant application attachments. This includes tax status letter, board roster, agency's organizational chart, list of programs and services, map of locations and geographic boundaries, current balance sheet, financial audit, and current income statement. It also helps to have quick access to agency newsletters or annual reports that give an overview of your organization's function. Program outcomes and individual stories can also provide a powerful story on the effectiveness of your organization to potential funders.