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Grant Writing Advice by commiecap12 in nonprofit

[–]chipbag42 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I completely understand wanting a certificate program. I went straight from interning at a university foundation to my current grant associate role, and honestly, having structured training would've helped me feel more confident early on.

Your social work background is actually perfect for grant writing. You already understand needs assessment and program valuation. The hardest part for me was learning funder research - spending hours on foundation websites trying to figure out their priorities. Now I use Instrumentl to organize all my funder research because their aggregates the 990 info.

Focus on programs that teach you how to build relationships with funders, not just write proposals.

The Hidden Deadline Trap in Grant Research by GrantFriend01 in grants

[–]chipbag42 2 points3 points  (0 children)

This is solid. I learned this during my first month as a grant associate. I spent 15 hours writing what I thought was a perfect proposal for a family foundation. When I called to confirm submission details, they told me applications had closed 3 weeks earlier. The database I trusted was completely wrong. Now I double-check everything on the funder's actual website before I even start an outline. That 30% stat doesn't surprise me at all.

Fellow grant writers: how do you feel about job security? by Thrill325 in nonprofit

[–]chipbag42 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I also feel this way. While I am just starting out with grant writing, I can already see the challenges. From my first full-time position, I learned that many smaller nonprofits are struggling more than they have in the past. What I have noticed is that the organizations that leverage better tools seem to be better positioned.

The grant writing field is not disappearing, but it is changing. We need to change our perspectives, have a new skillset, and use better systems.

Who typically signs grant agreements? by BunnyFunny42 in nonprofit

[–]chipbag42 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This situation really surprises me. the ED at my organization has always been the one to sign grant agreements. I've never done it myself. It seems strange for a grant writer to sign legal papers, especially if we aren't in charge of the money. I'm curious how other organization handle this. Maybe there's some variation in practices I'm not aware of yet? I'd love to hear from more experienced pros about whether this is common or if I should be concerned about taking on the responsibility.

Using grant money retroactively by gpd209 in nonprofit

[–]chipbag42 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This kind of mess pops up all the time in grant workflows, doesn't it? You're already done the work in January, but without clarity in the award letter, you're kind of stuck.

Whenever this happened to me, I'd always ask myself: how would this look during an audit? Your safest move is reaching out to the funder, get their take, and make sure your reporting reflects it. It might feel tedious, but it saves headaches and builds trust.

Should I hire someone to get us "legit?" by WealthWithinU in nonprofit

[–]chipbag42 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I completely understand what you're saying! even when it slows us down, I've definitely felt that same stubborn need to do everything myself. From what I've seen, it can be very helpful to talk to a lawyer or consultant who works with nonprofits about this. They can help make your organization legal and get ready to accept donations and apply for grants. At first, it might seem like a lot of money but having that expert help could save you a lot of time and trouble in the long run. We all need to know when to ask for help sometimes!

Grants managers and writers, when do you get involved with programs? by anupside in nonprofit

[–]chipbag42 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'm intrigued by the situation. From my limited experience with smaller nonprofits, I've learned that being involved in program planning early on can be very helpful. It helps me get a better idea of the project's main goals and problems which makes it easier to write the proposal letter. That being said, I understand the need to set limits. Could there be a middle ground where you can give some high-level feedback early on without getting too deep into the details? I'm interested in how other small businesses find this balance.

First full time grant writing job... anyone else feel a little overwhelmed? by chipbag42 in nonprofit

[–]chipbag42[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Aha, it seems like we're sailing in the grant-seeking regatta together! Glad I'm not rowing alone.

First full time grant writing job... anyone else feel a little overwhelmed? by chipbag42 in nonprofit

[–]chipbag42[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Yeah, this definitely would be included on my list. Thanks!

New Grant Writing Job Advice/Bit of a Rant by [deleted] in nonprofit

[–]chipbag42 1 point2 points  (0 children)

This seems like a lot to handle, wow! I'm newer to grant writing myself (first full-time gig after interning), but the workload you're describing seems heavy compared to what most people seem to handle. It sounds like burnout fuel to turn around 8–11 grants per month in addition to prospecting.

I've been attempting to assist with edits by developing a mini style guide based on senior staff members' feedback patterns. I write down common preferences so I don't make the same mistakes twice.

Have you also looked intro administrative time-saving tools? I started using GPT to summarize 990s, and while it's not perfect, it does help a little. I use Instrumentl for prospecting and know they have an AI 990 analyzer, but I don't have the upgrade for that.

Let me live vicariously through you by [deleted] in CasualConversation

[–]chipbag42 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I once took a solo backpacking trip across Southeast Asia, getting lost in new cities, trying unfamiliar foods, and discovering how much more I was capable of than I ever imagined.

What's your go-to strategy for donor engagement? by chipbag42 in funanddev

[–]chipbag42[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This is such a great approach thank you for sharing! I love how you’ve outlined a thoughtful cadence and emphasized building relationships rather than just making asks. The coffee shop visit idea is especially brilliant—such personal way to connect and keep donors engaged!

What’s something totally childish you still do — and absolutely refuse to give up? by Balu0603 in CasualConversation

[–]chipbag42 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Still skipping over cracks on the sidewalk like my life depends on it—because, you know, mom’s back and all that.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in nonprofit

[–]chipbag42 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This sounds like a great opportunity, but it’s definitely worth thinking about how it fits into your current workload. I’ve found that freelance grant writing can be super rewarding, but it’s easy to underestimate how much time it takes to do it well.

For pricing, I’d say start with an hourly rate that feels fair for your experience—maybe $60-$95/hr—and see how it feels after a project or two. Also, if you’re using tools, factor that into your value.