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.

Category Navigation

Filter posts by topic: click any category below.

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

Pricing, contracts, scope, and running a sustainable practice.

Prospecting, due diligence, and reading the fine print before you write a word.

Or search by keyword to find a specific post →

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

Dear Abby’s Advice to a Funder
Allison Welch, M.Ed., GPC Allison Welch, M.Ed., GPC

Dear Abby’s Advice to a Funder

As a grantwriter, I'm pretty sure my clients aren't the only organizations frustrated by the grant application process. Funders are, too. Over the last decade, many social and environmental problems have gotten worse; the number of nonprofits looking for funding has grown; and the stock and bond markets have subjected most portfolio managers to a ride they'd probably like to forget. I don't suppose many funders, harried or otherwise, turn to Dear Abby for advice. But if they did, here's what she might she say....

Read More