Blog Layout

Seven Benefits to Outsourcing Your Grant Writing Initiatives

Cara Barrett • Feb 02, 2016
Seven Benefits to Outsourcing Your Grant Writing Initiatives

 


While grant funds should not be the only revenue stream for a non-profit, they continue to be an effective way to raise dollars and should be a significant portion of a non-profit’s budget. If your agency is actively seeking grant dollars, you may choose to hire an in-house grant writer or you may choose to hire an outside consultant. While there are pros and cons to both options, below are some of the advantages to outsourcing that you may want to consider.


  • Industry Knowledge. A good grant writing consultant will have their finger on the pulse of local giving. They work with a variety of agencies, which gives them insight into which local funders are funding other agencies. This also gives them the ability to identify whether or not your agency is a good fit with certain funders.
  • Objectivity. An outside consultant will have a more objective view of your agencyyou’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, many consultants will have considerable experience in this area and will have served as grant reviewers for the federal government. Applying for federal grants will generally be much more complex than private grants, and 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. They may even be able to help bring your agency together with another agency through an introductory process.
  • Cost Savings. While consultants typically charge $60-$75/hour, you will not be paying them for a 40 hour week. You will also not need to pay them benefits or incur payroll taxes, which can be a considerable savings for your agency.
  • Fresh Approach. Consultants write for many different types of agencies, rather than writing about the same topic on an ongoing basis. This variety allows them to bring a fresh approach and enthusiasm to each new proposal, as writing about the same thing day after day can sometimes be a tedious undertaking for a staff member.
  • Management Experience. Grant writing consultants typically have a strong background in several key areas of non-profit management. They are knowledgeable about programs and best practices, have insight into creating well developed budgets, and have experience designing meaningful and measureable outcomes. They often have worked closely with non-profit boards, and many will have served as leaders of non-profit organizations.  All of these are key areas of knowledge needed for successful grant writing.



Before you consider hiring an in-house grant writer, take some time and interview grant writing consultants in your area. You will most likely be pleasantly surprised at the wealth of knowledge they can bring to your agency at a very cost-effective price.

Board Giving and Grant Success – A Vital Link
By Jule Colvin 14 Jul, 2021
It is a very competitive grant world out there, so be sure you understand the vital link between board giving and grant success.
Everything Rises and Falls on Leadership
By Jule Colvin 05 May, 2021
As the leader of your nonprofit, your leadership abilities are crucial for the welfare of your staff, volunteers, and the community you serve.
Tell Your Nonprofit’s Story by Wagging Your Own Tail
By Carla Wright 02 Mar, 2021
To quote my Aunt Babe (age 93), “It’s a poor dog that won’t wag its own tail.” This gives you permission to share positive observations about yourself.
Efficient Productivity for Grant Seeking – Part II
By Kari Cronbaugh-Auld MSW, GPC 17 Feb, 2021
his article is a continuation of a blog we posted two weeks ago on efficient productivity in grant seeking. Here is a recap of the first five steps: 1) Manage your Energy, Not Your Time, 2) Be Your Own Coach or Find A Trusted Coach, 3) Read About Productivity, 4) Set Goals. Let’s continue with #5…
Efficient Productivity for Grant Seeking – Part 1
By Kari Cronbaugh-Auld MSW, GPC 29 Jan, 2021
Some of us are wired to organize and seek out efficient productivity. Some of us are not, but no judgment here! The good news is that regardless of how easy it is for you to stay organized and have efficient productivity on a daily basis, there are some tried and true steps that will help you stay on track and meet your grant goals.
Lessons in Grant Seeking from a Tricolored Heron
By Jule Colvin 11 Jan, 2021
I did not expect to receive lessons in grant seeking while on holiday break this year with my husband.
Grant Budgets & Cookie Recipes!
By Kari Cronbaugh-Auld MSW, GPC 30 Dec, 2020
Writing the narrative takes the bulk of the time you spend preparing a grant proposal, just like mixing the cookie ingredients. However, grant budgets are just as important; they are like recipes when you are baking.
#Grant-Seeking as a Priority During COVID-19
By Kari Cronbaugh-Auld MSW, GPC 11 Nov, 2020
Why keep #grant-seeking as a priority during COVID-19 when there are so many urgent needs? Take a breath, take a minute, and remember – your mission depends on it.
Podcast: Do You Know Your Pathway to Growth?
By admin 31 Aug, 2020
Jule Colvin has been in the trenches of grant writing for almost two decades.
To Contact or Not Contact the Funder? That is the question!
By P2G Team Writer 29 Jul, 2020
Many years ago, when I was a “younger” professional, I attended a training session on how to write grants. The speaker shared some opening tips, and one of the key points that has stayed with me is to know your funder.
More Posts
Share by: