Four Steps to Incorporate Contract Grant Writing into Your Budget
Is your organization ready to hire a contract grant writer but unsure how to fit this new expense into your annual budget? You’re not alone. Many nonprofits recognize the value of outsourcing grant writing services but hesitate because of financial uncertainty.
At Ascend Nonprofit & Business Solutions (Ascend NBS), we believe that hiring a grant writer is not just an expense; it’s a strategic investment in your organization’s long-term success.
Here are four clear steps to help you incorporate contract grant writing into your nonprofit’s budget:
1. Analyze Your Current Budget
Start by reviewing your existing budget. What unrestricted funds or flexible program dollars could be allocated toward professional grant writing support?
Understanding your current financial landscape will help you determine what’s feasible and what adjustments may be needed.
2. Determine Your Grant Writing Needs
Do you need support writing full proposals, editing drafts, conducting grant research, or managing submissions throughout the year? Clarifying the scope of services will help you identify the type of writer you need and ensure you only pay for what’s necessary. Also, estimate how many proposals you plan to submit annually.
3. Price Out Services
Reach out to experienced contract grant writers or firms like Ascend NBS to request customized pricing based on your needs. Professional grant writing fees can vary widely, so gathering a few quotes will help you compare service offerings, deliverables, and value.
4. Raise Additional Funds if Needed
If hiring a grant writer exceeds your current budget, consider launching a mini-fundraising campaign to cover the cost. Many individual donors and funders are willing to support capacity-building efforts, especially when you explain how this investment will help your organization secure more funding in the future.
Hiring a contract grant writer can be a game-changer. It allows you to submit more competitive proposals, access larger funding pools, and ultimately expand your programs and services.
Ready to talk strategy? Reach out to Ascend NBS today to explore how our grant writing and research services can support your mission and help you reach your funding goals.