Spark the Fire

Grant Writing Blog

Skills, ideas, and sometimes contrarian views for grant writers and freelance consultants who want to get better at the work, not just get through it. Centering purpose, not hustle.

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Proposal craft, funder psychology, and the positioning choices that win.

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Credentialing, career moves, and staying sharp in the field.

How Long Does It Take to Learn Grant Writing?
Allison Welch Allison Welch

How Long Does It Take to Learn Grant Writing?

So, you want to learn grant writing—but how long will it take before you can confidently write winning proposals? The answer depends on your dedication, writing skills, and hands-on experience, but one thing is certain: grant writing isn’t something you master overnight.

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What is Grant Writing Like as a Career?
Allison Welch Allison Welch

What is Grant Writing Like as a Career?

Did you ever want to know what being a grant writer is like?

Most people who become grant writers don’t start with that plan in mind. Like me…I was a social worker. I worked for the State of Washington right out of college and later as a case manager at a homeless shelter in Honolulu. Grant writing happened by chance.

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Why I Pursued a Certificate in Grant Writing
Allison Welch Allison Welch

Why I Pursued a Certificate in Grant Writing

One of my former students surprised me today! She wrote about her experience as a student in my course. Sonja Pringle was in the Winter 2024 learning cohort. As a recent college graduate from Washington State University with a major in English, she’s a natural writer who wanted to put her writing skills to good use. I can’t think of a better way to do just that than writing grants that help our community thrive. Here is her story…-Allison

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