Getting Started as a Grant Writer in 2025 (When Competition Is Tough)
Breaking into grant writing right now isn’t easy. With shifting federal budgets, tighter funding pools, and a flood of competition, it can feel like the doors are closed to newcomers.
But here’s the good news: nonprofits still need grant writers—and if you’re willing to learn, practice, and position yourself well, there’s room for you.
Here’s a practical guide to getting started in grant writing, even when the landscape feels tough.
🧭 Understand the Role of a Grant Writer
Before you pitch yourself, know what’s expected.
Grant writers do more than just "write." The job includes:
Researching funding opportunities
Translating program goals into funder language
Creating budgets and logic models
Working under deadlines with multiple stakeholders
Tracking outcomes and reporting results
You don’t have to master it all on day one—but understanding the full scope sets you apart.
📚 Learn the Language of Grants
Grant writing is its own genre. Start by reading:
Funded grant proposals (many are available online)
Foundation RFPs (requests for proposals)
Federal grant guidelines (from grants.gov, NIH, or HUD)
Look for patterns—how problems are framed, how outcomes are measured, and how narratives are structured.
🛠️ Build Your Skills, Even If You Don’t Have Experience
You can build a portfolio before you land a client or job. Try:
Volunteering with a small nonprofit that needs help
Creating a mock proposal for a real RFP
Taking a grant writing course (look for ones with practice assignments)
Pro tip: Focus on local or community foundations first—less competition, quicker decisions, and simpler applications.
💡 Start Small and Specialize
Don’t try to be everything to everyone. Start with:
One issue area (education, health, housing)
One sector (local nonprofits, grassroots orgs, faith-based groups)
One type of grant (foundation, corporate, or government)
You’ll stand out more as a “grant writer for after-school programs” than just “freelance grant writer.”
💬 Network the Right Way
Most grant writing opportunities come from relationships, not cold applications.
Join nonprofit networking groups (local or online)
Show up at events and conferences
Offer to review or edit someone’s draft
Value builds trust. Start by helping, not pitching.
🧠 Stay Aware of the Current Funding Climate
Yes—federal funding is tightening in many areas. That means:
Competition is higher
Proposals need to be more data-driven and strategic
Nonprofits are leaning on foundation and state funding more than ever
Keep tabs on policy shifts, new federal initiatives, and foundation trends so you can guide clients toward the right opportunities.
✅ Quick Checklist to Get Started
Read at least 3 funded proposals in your niche
Write or volunteer on one real-world grant project
Choose a focus area or cause you care about
Take a reputable online grant writing course
Join a nonprofit or grant writer networking group
Stay current on funding trends in your niche
Final Thoughts
Getting started as a grant writer is challenging—but not impossible. The key is to show up with clarity, commitment, and a willingness to do the work others skip. In a crowded space, competence and consistency will set you apart.
Sheena Link is the co-founder of PureGrant, an AI grantwriting platform helping nonprofits write smarter, win more, and focus on impact.