Most non-profit organizations hiring a staff grant writer will require an undergraduate degree, preferably in English, Journalism, Communication, or Marketing. I quickly searched Indeed, and 95% of the job listings for a full-time grant writer require an undergraduate degree. I was surprised that 3% of the job listings require a graduate degree, and 2% did not mention a degree.
When I filter the results to show contract freelance grant writers, only 50% of the job descriptions specify that an undergraduate degree is required.
You do not need a degree to be a freelance grant writer.
What can you do without a degree to stand out from the crowd and land clients?
Use Professional Tools
How will you research and vet grant opportunities? Researchers are only as strong as the tools they use. Add a line to your resume that says, “Conducts grant research using three professional grant software platforms.” My favorite is GrantStation, and it only costs $95/year.
Add Grant Credentials
Check your eligibility and apply to become certified with your GPC. Continue your education with grant-specific training like Just Write Grants Bootcamp and Freelance Grant Writer Academy. There are many more out there; these are just my two favorites.
Highlight Your Experience
If you worked on a school PTO and wrote a grant, that counts. If you volunteered to write grants for a local animal shelter, that counts. If you wrote a business proposal, that counts. Draw attention to any writing or non-profit experience you have.
Convince Them to Give You a Shot
Let your passion shine, let your interviewer know your strategy, and convince them to give you a shot.
You got this!
Until next time,
Write Epic Grants