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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Grant Strategy

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

Freelance Business

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

Grant Research

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

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Professional Growth

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

Allison Welch, M.Ed., GPC 5/18/25 Allison Welch, M.Ed., GPC 5/18/25

Is Freelance Grant Writing Right for You?

Allison Welch, M.Ed., GPC 2/19/25 Allison Welch, M.Ed., GPC 2/19/25

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.

Allison Welch, M.Ed., GPC 1/5/25 Allison Welch, M.Ed., GPC 1/5/25

What is the Best Way to Learn Grant Writing?

Allison Welch, M.Ed., GPC 11/24/24 Allison Welch, M.Ed., GPC 11/24/24

The Perfect Recipe for Grant Writing Success

Allison Welch, M.Ed., GPC 10/2/23 Allison Welch, M.Ed., GPC 10/2/23

Tips for Seeking First-Time Support

Nonprofits approaching a foundation for support for the first time often are asked, "Who else is at the table?" That's because foundations and corporate grantmakers are more likely to fund a program or project that others have deemed worthy of support. But as any grantwriter or development professional knows, it's not easy to get a funder to actually sit at the table. Here are a few tips designed to help you demonstrate to potential first-time funders that your project or program merits their support...

Allison Welch, M.Ed., GPC 8/25/23 Allison Welch, M.Ed., GPC 8/25/23

Throwing in the Towel

You know that foundation that never returns your calls? The one you keep sending proposals to that never responds? You've poured over the foundation's 990-PF and its Foundation Directory Online profile. You've scoured the Web for information about its staff and giving. And everything you've found gives you reason to believe that if the good people at the foundation would just read your proposal, they'd want to invest in your organization. But you're still hanging on the telephone. Before you throw in the towel and decide to invest your time elsewhere, here are some things to keep in mind