Grant Writing & Funding

The second step for setting up a winning grant structure is "R," Research Needs. I'll teach you exactly how to use research to explain specifically WHY your project is needed. Want a free downloadable CHEAT SHEET and mini, video-series (five day mini video course!)? Visit www.grantwritingandfunding.com and get it NOW. You'll get Holly's proven, step-by-step system that has helped her secured millions of dollars for nonprofits over the last 15 years, as well as eliminate wasted hours as a consultant. Create extraordinary grants while minimizing your time writing grants! Listen to the podcast on iTunes, SoundCloud, Stitcher or watch on YouTube! To share your thoughts: Send Holly an email at [email protected] To help out the show: Leave an honest review on iTunes. Your ratings and reviews really help, and I read all of them! Subscribe on iTunes or on YouTube. Looking for more? Follow us on Instagram @grantwriting_funding

Introducing the G.R.A.N.T.S. Formula – Your Key to Writing Efficient GrantsAre you ready to revolutionize your grant writing process?Look no further than the G.R.A.N.T.S. Formula, a proven framework designed to enhance your grant writing skills and create a competitive grant structure. Developed to address the challenges faced by grant writers, this formula will guide you from a blank page to a well-structured grant proposal in no time.Let’s dive into the details of the G.R.A.N.T.S. Formula, starting with the “G” – Get the FOA or RFP and Use it as a Template.A Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA), or Request for Proposal (RFP), provides essential information on how funding agencies want grant applications to be written. Each FOA or RFP is unique, with its own set of requirements and guidelines.By thoroughly reading and understanding the FOA or RFP, you can use its criteria as headers in your grant application, ensuring alignment with the funding agency’s expectations.This will get you over the ‘blank staring at a screen’ that many beginner grant writers find themselves.During this initial step, you’ll familiarize yourself with the mission, eligibility criteria, deadlines, technical requirements, and sections to be addressed in the grant application. Additionally, you’ll have access to scoring criteria and contact information for any clarifications.I’ve received many emails from people saying that they’re struggling with the learning process of writing grants and gaining experience with grant writing. This formula will help you achieve exactly that! It will also help you go from staring at a blank page and being overwhelmed, to having a draft developed in no time at all!Let’s get into some of those tricks with our “G” from the G.R.A.N.T.S. Formula.ABOUT HOLLY RUSTICKGrant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030. Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship. Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy, past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella. CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICK Website: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/ RESOURCES:Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship RATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCASTFavor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickLeading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

Learn about the process of submitting an IRB application with special guest Dr. Deborah Ellen. Dr. Ellen is Assistant Professor of Education at Guam Community College and active member of the Pacific Islands Bilingual Bicultural Association and co-chair of newly formed non-profit - Talaya Micronesia. Listen to the podcast on iTunes, SoundCloud, Stitcher or watch on YouTube! To share your thoughts: Send Holly an email at [email protected] To help out the show: Leave an honest review on iTunes. Your ratings and reviews really help, and I read all of them! Subscribe on iTunes or on YouTube. Looking for more? Follow us on Instagram @grantwriting_funding

What is IRB approval? Do I need one as a grant writer? Do I need one before starting my research? All these questions and more answered as Holly discusses the Institutional Review Board (IRB). Listen to the podcast on iTunes, SoundCloud, Stitcher or watch on YouTube! To share your thoughts: Send Holly an email at [email protected] To help out the show: Leave an honest review on iTunes. Your ratings and reviews really help, and I read all of them! Subscribe on iTunes or on YouTube. Looking for more? Follow us on Instagram @grantwriting_funding

Learn how to track sources and file them into a stunning bibliography for your grant. We're all about citations and celebrations because it's Holly's Birthday! Head on over to www.grantwritingandfunding.com/80 for your FREE gift! Listen to the podcast on iTunes, SoundCloud, Stitcher or watch on YouTube! To share your thoughts: Send Holly an email at [email protected] To help out the show: Leave an honest review on iTunes. Your ratings and reviews really help, and I read all of them! Subscribe on iTunes or on YouTube. Looking for more? Follow us on Instagram @grantwriting_funding

Gathering data is important when supporting grants, connecting with your beneficiaries, providing credibility for your projects, and even understanding what projects to develop. Data can be gathered in a multitude of different ways and as we discussed last week in our re-broadcast for conducting a Needs & Strengths Assessment (episode 78), I discussed methods for Needs & Strengths Assessments to utilize are online surveys, in-person surveys, and focus groups.However, there are some other methods (and can be FREE or very affordable) ways to gather research. One, low hanging fruit way, to gather data that we will discuss today is using polls on Facebook and Instagram.Social media can be a great platform to gather information about the needs and strengths of your beneficiaries or those who you may want to serve. So, let’s look at some main big social media mongrels. This is not extensive at all, but these are some of the larger social media platforms and you will walk away today being able to gather data on these platforms using very simple processes. If you have never utilized social media polls to gather information for your nonprofit or a nonprofit that you work with, after this episode you will be able to do it.A full disclaimer is that any tactic that I am talking about as of July 2019 may change in the future as social media is always changing strategies, user interfaces, and options. These polls may not always be an option or as we speak they may be getting more and more robust. But the essence behind the strategy is the same. Social media is to create interaction and I am sure that connecting with your supporters, beneficiaries, and advocates utilizing social media will always be possible to some extent. Facebook Social Media PollsAs of 2019 Facebook is still the behemoth on social media. Yes, there are shifts and I see more and more people are using other social media platforms as their main sources, but Facebook is still king as has the most users at 2.23 billion users every month. That’s nearly a 1/3 of the world’s population!Many nonprofits only have a Facebook page for their nonprofit and not even a website. I do not recommend this at all (and you can listen to more about why in episode 12: https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/12) but the fact is this true. In any case, you should have some sort of social media platform for your nonprofit, or the ones you work with, and because of Facebook’s size, many nonprofits have pages on Facebook.In order to really utilize Facebook for polls, ads, and other ways you need to have a separate page for your nonprofit or a group and not just your personal page.For nonprofits, I like Facebook nonprofit pages so they can set up groups, go Live, add updated information, create ads, and form a tribe. So how do you gather information utilizing Facebook polls?Facebook has the option to easily create a poll in groups or on non-personal pages. All you have to do is click on ‘create a post’ and you have the option for poll. You can even add images to each choice. This is a great way to get your supporters or beneficiaries to answer some questions. I am an administrator of a couple of pages on Facebook and one poll I recently did was to ask people in the group which type of funding they are most focused on securing for their nonprofits in 2019. I gave them the choices of 1) grants, 2) fundraising events, 3) crowdfunding campaign, 4) donor support, 5) create products, or to 6) create services. If you are part of “Fund My Nonprofit” on Facebook, you can scroll down the page and check it out. If you are not yet in the group, please join as this is a free group and has hundreds of members! Just look for “Fund My Nonprofit – Funding Tips and How-To’s”.The Facebook poll I created took me less than a minute and the feedback was super helpful on a couple of different levels. One level is that I know what type of content to create for this group because I know what most people will find the most valuable. Most people clicked ‘grant funding’ which is perfect for me as that is what I can talk about all day long!Another level on how it was helpful is that it gives the people a voice and creates a stronger tribe. They get to tell me what they want more of and have a voice to contribute in the group.How do you get people to take your poll, though?Well, polls are simple, too, and very quick for people to take. You can use open-ended questions and ask people to reply in the comments, but by providing pre-set answers you will in most cases get a higher amount of responses. This is because when people are on social media, they are getting pings and notifications from a bunch of different sources all at the same time. Polls make a quick and easy way to gather information from a specific group of people.Guiding people to your pollThe best way you can get an increased number of people replying to your poll is to also email out the list. For example, since I am targeting mainly people

Join us as Holly revisits an important topic for nonprofits: Needs and Strengths Assessment! We discuss why your organization needs this research before applying for grants, and how to survey your audience to get the data you need. Listen to the podcast on iTunes, SoundCloud, Stitcher or watch on YouTube! To share your thoughts: Send Holly an email at [email protected] To help out the show: Leave an honest review on iTunes. Your ratings and reviews really help, and I read all of them! Subscribe on iTunes or on YouTube. Looking for more? Follow us on Instagram @grantwriting_funding

Get the free downloadable on www.grantwritingandfunding.com/77 that includes a template press release, a sample press release, and a podcast audio! As a grant freelancer or nonprofit freelancer, writing press releases can be another stream of income or expanded portfolio that you provide your clients. A great press release to write is when one of your clients wins a grants! Woo-hoo! Send that out to the local press 😊 Listen to the podcast on iTunes, SoundCloud, Stitcher or watch on YouTube! To share your thoughts: Send Holly an email at [email protected] To help out the show: Leave an honest review on iTunes. Your ratings and reviews really help, and I read all of them! Subscribe on iTunes or on YouTube. Looking for more? Follow us on Instagram @grantwriting_funding

Lights, camera, action! Are you ready to be on camera to represent your nonprofit? Join Holly as she shares valuable tips and tricks to being comfortable on video. Check out the podcast blog post on www.grantwritingandfunding.com/76 for a free downloadable that goes with this week's upload. This downloadable will ensure that you are ALWAYS ready before going on camera, whether that's your iPhone or on TV! Listen to the podcast on iTunes, SoundCloud, Stitcher or watch on YouTube! To share your thoughts: Send Holly an email at [email protected] To help out the show: Leave an honest review on iTunes. Your ratings and reviews really help, and I read all of them! Subscribe on iTunes or on YouTube. Looking for more? Follow us on Instagram @grantwriting_funding

Join Holly as she discusses public relations with Nikki R. Jones! With 12 years of communication experience, Nikki explains how nonprofits can navigate traditional and new media to create awareness for your organization. Listen to the podcast on iTunes, SoundCloud or Stitcher or watch on YouTube! To share your thoughts: Send Holly an email at [email protected] To help out the show: Leave an honest review on iTunes. Your ratings and reviews really help, and I read all of them! Subscribe on iTunes or on YouTube. Looking for more? Follow us on Instagram @grantwriting_funding

Are you a freelance grant writer or nonprofit consultant?If you are then you know that one thing you want to know is how to get nonprofit clients! Sure, in the beginning you may have gotten a lot of people asking you to write grants, but how do you know if they will be a good-fit nonprofit client?In order to secure nonprofit clients, freelance grant writers need to understand and do the following:1) Understand the different types of nonprofitsYou first need to really identify what types of nonprofits you want to target and to know that you need to understand the different types of nonprofit organizations.Are they the cash cow, the expanding monkey, or the pups?2) Be aware of funding priority shiftsThis means, pay attention to trends and make your mark as an expert! Maybe you have nonprofit organizations asking about:your grant writing success, orif you can write grants and get paid on commissionBe prepared to answer those questions! But also know what is going on in the grant writing arena.3) Do you want to be a generalist or specialist?These are all things for you to consider as a grant writer. What type of clients do you want to work with?Generalist: Maybe you love working with nonprofits that are varied, in different states, and have a variety of projects. You love a challenge! You love learning about the latest trends and projects going on all over the world and are at your best when you can learn about new projects.Specialist: You might be a specialist if you absolutely are passionate about working for a specific cause. Maybe you were in a nonprofit that served at-risk youth and you want to continue to serve other nonprofits that have this same specific cause. You want to focus most of your grant writing on writing to specific federal and founding funding sources that fund at-risk youth projects. You start an Instagram page on at-risk youth facts and statistics, create posts when grants are available, and follow the hashtag #nonprofityouth. Maybe your passion stems from being an at-risk youth yourself and you want to become part of that movement. This is a topic that you never get tired of talking about.4) Write grants!Get really good at first increasing the number of grants that you write. Just by doing this you will get experience! Sometimes you may have to start off as a volunteer, or working more as a generalist, but other things you can do are to take a grant writing course and show that you have some sort of experience.So to sum up how to identify and get nonprofit clients as a grant writer are the following:Understand the different types of nonprofits (and know which ones you want to work with)Be aware of funding priorities shiftingIdentify if you want (or need to be) a generalist or specialist grant writerWrite GrantsABOUT HOLLY RUSTICKGrant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030. Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship. Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy, past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella. CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICK Website: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/ RESOURCES:Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship RATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCASTFavor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickLeading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant wr

If you are a freelance grant writer, then you probably get asked by potential clients what your grant writing success rate is; i.e.:“What is your grant writing success rate?”While I completely understand this question, it isn’t the clearest level of success for a grant writer.Sure, there is validation of having grants awarded. I definitely recommend boasting about your secured grants so potential nonprofit clients can see what types of grants and clients you have worked with.But stating an 80 percent or 50 percent success rate doesn’t really say how good of a grant writer you are. Chances are the nonprofit client that asks you your success rate won’t be able to interpret what is a ‘good’ success rate either.Of course, you can and should track grants won for your own method, but there are better ways to identify your value as a grant writer.What is Your Grant Writing Success Rate?A lot of time you, as a grant writer, won’t even know what your success rate is unless you are tracking it. But your success rate is built upon a variety of variables.#1) Quantity: If you have a ton of clients, your success rate could be lower. For example, you may write 10 grants per client and get two or three grants awarded per client. That could be a total of 30 grants secured and could total well into the millions of dollars. But your success rate would only be 10 percent. Ugh! On the other hand, if you only have written one grant and got it secured, then you have a 100 percent success rate. But you can see how that may not be a good indicator of you being a good grant writer.#2) Nonprofit Credibility: A grant writer’s success rate is much of the time really supported by the credibility and experience of the nonprofit. If a nonprofit has been around for 40+ years, has secured a multitude of grants (maybe 30 percent + of the annual operating budget is supported by grants), and has a strong infrastructure then your grant writing success rate is automatically increased just based on the health of the nonprofit. As a reviewer looks at resumes with a strong track record on managing grants and implementing projects, they will have more confidence in the application versus a start-up nonprofit’s grant application.#3) Nonprofit Project Experience: If the nonprofit has had years of experience serving a similar project that it is asking for funding for, they will have a leg-up. This differs from overall experience, as it looks at specific project experience. For example, if the nonprofit has a women’s project that serves victims of crime with housing and they are requesting grant funding for supportive services for their existing clients, they will have a higher chance of securing a grant compared to a nonprofit who has never served victims of crime and is asking for the same funding. According to Funding For Good, a success rate for a well-established nonprofit can be around 90 percent, expanding programs around 80 percent, and start-up projects around 30 percent. So it really does depend, in large part, of how much the nonprofit has experience with similar projects. Funding begets funding.#4) Funding priorities: This year is the year of opioid grants, research, and STEM funding. Last year the funding priority was human trafficking. The trends of federal grants are reflected of the political administration.#5) Knowing the grant: Another variable is how well you as a grant writer know a certain grant. I know other grant writers who only write grants for specific grants and categories; such as SAMHSA grants for family and children programs. They know they are more successful and like to write these grants so that is all they do. Some departments at universities focus nearly exclusively on NSF and NIH grants. This is due to it being a super good fit and them getting experience writing these grants and in return their success being very good at securing these grants.The top 5 reasons that success rates are not a true indicator on your grant writing skills are:A percentage is tweaked by the number of grants you have writtenThe credibility of the nonprofitThe experience that the nonprofit has with the projectCurrent funding priorities of federal grants and society trendsHow well you, as a grant writer, know the grantSo, what are good indicators for grant success?#1: The types and number of grants you have secured: The bottom line is writing more grants produces more awarded grants. It’s simple math. But, also it really depends on the types of grants you are writing and getting awarded. Maybe you know a lot about project for women in need so it’ll be easier for you to secure certain DOJ or SAMHSA grants. Then those types of clients will be more drawn to you because of your success with those grants.#2: The types of nonprofits you have worked with: If you have worked with start-up nonprofits, and due to the nature of start-ups work more on developing projects, then you will be more attractive for start-ups. Vice versa if you work with larger no

"How can I get paid as a grant writer?" A question that's on everyone's mind, but how do you approach it? A nonprofit might not have the budget to pay your for your work, or maybe you think you can be paid in a commission. In this podcast, Holly discusses the best ways a nonprofit can pay you as a grant writer. To share your thoughts: Send Holly an email at [email protected] To help out the show: Leave an honest review on iTunes. Your ratings and reviews really help, and I read all of them! Subscribe on iTunes or on YouTube. Looking for more? Follow us on Instagram @grantwriting_funding

In this episode, Holly Rustick takes you behind the scenes of a live coaching call with founding member Meg Tyquiengco of Energetic Presence, offering a real look into the kind of support available inside the Grant Writing & Funding Membership. During this 30-minute one-on-one session, Meg brings forward key challenges many nonprofits face, including how to transition from a working board of directors to a governing board, how to grow an organization with only a part-time executive director, how to effectively manage volunteers, and how to localize a nonprofit chapter within a larger national organization. Holly provides practical strategies, insights, and coaching to help navigate each of these areas, making this episode a valuable resource for nonprofit leaders looking to strengthen their structure, leadership, and impact.ABOUT OUR GUESTMeg Tyquiengco is a coach, mentor, and trainer/facilitator through her organization, Energetic Presence. She specializes in leadership, communication, teamwork, and sales and service, with a focus on creating teams of leaders. Meg is also a sought-after speaker across Guam, where she promotes “The Power of Giving Back,” leadership through mentoring, and the importance of supporting your community.OTHER RESOURCES:Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home.https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipRATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCASTFavor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” ← If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickLeading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

Sarah Olivieri, founder of PivotGround and creator of The Impact Method, joins us to share how nonprofits can build stronger, more effective organizations through strategic frameworks and intentional planning. We dive into The Impact Method, how to develop a clear blueprint for your organization, and the key elements of a successful blueprint checklist. Sarah also breaks down practical approaches to time management and introduces the Accountability Optimizer to help teams stay focused, aligned, and results-driven while increasing their overall impact and funding potential.ABOUT OUR GUESTSarah Olivieri is the founder of PivotGround and the creator of The Impact Method, a framework designed to help nonprofits improve their programs, increase funding, and strengthen their overall operations. Through her work, Sarah supports organizations in building clear strategies, optimizing performance, and creating sustainable impact. Her mission is to help nonprofits deliver better programming, attract more resources, and ultimately make the world a better place.OTHER RESOURCES:Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipRATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCASTFavor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickLeading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

What would happen if you handed a newly elected board member your nonprofit bylaws — and they instantly understood their role, responsibilities, and expectations?In this episode, Holly breaks down the essential components every nonprofit should include in its bylaws to create clarity, accountability, and strong governance. Your bylaws are more than just a legal requirement — they are the operating manual for your board of directors.You’ll learn the top 14 bylaw elements Holly recommends, including board size, officer roles, conflict of interest policies, quorum requirements, meeting structures, amendment processes, and more. She also shares practical insights on staggered terms, attendance expectations, fiscal year clarity, and why non-compensation policies matter.Whether you’re starting a nonprofit, restructuring your board, or simply reviewing your governance documents, this episode will help you strengthen your foundation.Get the FREE Downloadable Bylaws Template here: https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/bylaws ABOUT HOLLY RUSTICKGrant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030. Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship.Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy, past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella.CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICKWebsite: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/RESOURCES:Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipRATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCASTFavor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickLeading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

Developing your Articles of Incorporation is a critical next step in officially establishing your nonprofit organization.Once you’ve decided to move forward with forming a nonprofit, filing your Articles of Incorporation with your state is required—and while each state has its own process, the purpose remains the same.In this episode, we walk through what Articles of Incorporation are, why they matter, and how to create them.Some states provide simple templates you can fill out, while others require you to draft your own. That’s why understanding the core components is so important.Think of your Articles of Incorporation as the constitution of your nonprofit.They outline how your organization will operate and provide structure and guidance—especially as new board members join over time. These documents ensure consistency, clarity, and accountability in how your nonprofit is governed.We also break down the two main reasons you need Articles of Incorporation: They are required to establish a tax-exempt nonprofit organization They provide foundational guidance for your nonprofit’s structure and operations In this episode, you’ll get a clear, basic outline to help you start drafting your own Articles of Incorporation.And if you’re a grant writer, this is an especially valuable skill—because many nonprofits will look to you for guidance when they’re just getting started. Having a nonprofit toolkit (including templates like this) can position you as an even more valuable resource.You can also download a free Articles of Incorporation template here: https://grantwritingandfunding.podia.com/article-of-incorporation-templateABOUT HOLLY RUSTICKGrant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030. Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship.Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy, past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella.CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICKWebsite: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/OTHER RESOURCES:Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipRATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCASTFavor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickLeading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

Have you identified your values, and developed a concise and well communicated mission and visions statement for your nonprofit or freelance grant writing company? Your mission statement is what you do today, and your vision statement is what you will be doing tomorrow. These elements are crucial, as they guide your organization to success.ABOUT HOLLY RUSTICKGrant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030. Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship. Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy, past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella. CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICK Website: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/ RESOURCES:Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship RATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCASTFavor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickLeading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

Don’t make a desperate plea just to fill seats on your board of directors. The people you bring onto your board should be intentional, aligned, and truly invested in your mission. Your board members don’t just show up to meetings—they represent your organization everywhere they go.In this episode, Holly talks about the importance of being strategic when building your board. She shares why rushing to fill positions can hurt your nonprofit in the long run, how the right board members can elevate your credibility and impact, and what to consider when selecting individuals who will advocate for your mission, open doors, and support sustainable growth.ABOUT HOLLY RUSTICKGrant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030. Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship.Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy, past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella.CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICKWebsite: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/RESOURCES:Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipRATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCASTFavor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickLeading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

If you’re starting a nonprofit—or thinking about it—there’s one critical step you can’t afford to skip: obtaining your 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.In this episode, we break down why this designation is so important and how it directly impacts your ability to secure funding.Most foundations and federal grant programs require nonprofits to have 501(c)(3) status before they will even consider awarding funds. Without it, your opportunities for grant funding are extremely limited.But it’s not just about eligibility—it’s also about credibility.Having official tax-exempt status signals to donors, funders, and partners that your organization is legitimate, transparent, and structured for impact—not just a front for collecting money.We also discuss how this status benefits your supporters by allowing individuals and corporations to receive tax deductions for their donations—making it easier to attract and retain donors.If you’re in the early stages of building your nonprofit, this episode will help you understand why securing your 501(c)(3) status should be a top priority after establishing your board and clearly defining your mission.ABOUT HOLLY RUSTICKGrant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030. Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship.Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy, past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella. CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICKWebsite: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/RESOURCES:Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox.https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home.https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipRATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCASTFavor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickLeading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

So you have an idea for a new nonprofit, now what? In order to get your organization together it's a good idea to first conduct some market research. Find out where your new nonprofit will stand among the other organizations in your area. This will help strengthen your stakeholder relationships and discover if your nonprofit will be filling a gap in your community. ✨✨ Visit www.grantwritingandfunding.com to get the proven G.R.A.N.T.S. formula to write winning grants ✨✨ Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener? This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review! If you have any questions, feel free to email [email protected] I’d love to connect with you! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWzIfwJt0az9KKwKz1Uc8vg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyrustick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-rustick-0765b817/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Thanks for listening! Holly Rustick Expert Grant Writer & Bestselling Author https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/

Thinking about starting a 501(c)(3) nonprofit—but not sure where to begin?In this episode, Holly Rustick interviews business lawyer Vanessa L. Williams to break down the legal essentials of forming a tax-exempt nonprofit organization.Vanessa shares common mistakes and challenges she sees nonprofits face early on, along with practical guidance on the key documents and steps required to properly establish your organization.We dive into what you need to have in place before applying for 501(c)(3) status, how to set your nonprofit up for compliance and sustainability, and why getting the legal foundation right from the beginning is so critical.This episode also serves as a strong foundation for deeper conversations around nonprofit setup and strategy, making it a perfect starting point if you're exploring launching your own organization.If you want clarity, confidence, and expert insight into starting a nonprofit the right way, this episode is a must-listen.ABOUT OUR GUESTVanessa L. Williams is a business lawyer who specializes in helping entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders establish legally sound and sustainable organizations. She provides guidance on business formation, nonprofit compliance, and legal strategy to ensure her clients build strong foundations from the start.Vanessa is passionate about empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools needed to successfully launch and manage their organizations.OTHER RESOURCES:Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipRATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCASTFavor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickLeading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) can strengthen your grant application in the eyes of a funding source. It demonstrates a strong, committed partnership to ensure the project can and will happen as it is laid out in the proposal. This commitment gives security to all the partners involved as well. Plus, MOUs are frequently REQUIRED when submitting grant applications and can be scored! Have a template to create the highest scoring MOUs by listening to this podcast! ABOUT HOLLY RUSTICKGrant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030. Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship. Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy, past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella. CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICK Website: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/ RESOURCES:Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship RATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCASTFavor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickLeading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

In this solo episode, Holly Rustick shares practical tips on how to develop a strong letter of commitment that strengthens your grant proposals and builds funder confidence. She explains how a well-crafted letter can demonstrate meaningful collaboration, highlight partner alignment, and showcase the depth of support behind your project. Holly also walks through what funders are really looking for and how to position your commitments in a way that elevates the overall quality and competitiveness of your proposal.ABOUT HOLLY RUSTICKGrant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030. Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship.Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy, past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, and serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella.CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICKWebsite: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/RESOURCES:Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipRATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCASTFavor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickLeading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

The dreaded Letter of Support.This is the one that you forgot to get and then go to upload the grant application you’ve been working on for weeks and realize you forgot to get your partners to endorse your project.Ugh.Yeah, this is one of the first things that I have my clients to gather as getting letters of support from partners can take TIME. If they are out of town or just busy (as most are), Letters of Support can take weeks to get signed and approved, and returned to your nonprofit.Now, this is different than a Letter of Commitment. We will talk about Letters of Commitment next time. Letters of Commitment have a bit more teeth and can teeter on Memorandums of Understanding, referred to as MOUs.Sometimes a Letter of Commitment and Letter of Support can be very similar based on the funding source, but with federal grants, there is a bigger difference.So, let’s get back to Letters of Support. These are the softest letter of them all but can offer your nonprofit a large stamp of validation. These can also be required from certain funding sources and other funding sources may allow you to include these as attachments. These should not be included with Letters of Intent or Letters of Inquiry unless specifically requested by the funding source.Basically, a letter of support is where your community says that they support your project that you are requesting funding for. You can, and VERY OFTEN you will, write a template letter of support from your partners and send over to them to put on their letterhead and sign.This is a very common practice. They will read the letter of support (or should) and may change some language, but really don’t want to do the work. They don’t mind skimming over something and signing in the off chance that you actually get the grant awarded! (If you want a downloadable template of a Letter of Support, join the waitlist for the GW&F Changemakers Members Club!)Who should you ask for letters of support? You should ask the partners that make sense for the project you are submitting a grant application for. If you are writing a grant for a suicide prevention program for youth, then you may want to get letters from your partners in the community that serves youth, such as the Department of Youth Affairs, other Youth nonprofits, middle and high schools in your community, and so forth. This demonstrates that your community will support you in implementing the grant. It does not state that they will get paid a subcontractor anything else, that is for your Letter of Commitment or an MOU.Okay, so how are these written?Make sure your partner has their letterhead on the paper and that it is signed by your partner’s authorized official, such as the director or acting director.Make sure they are dated and addressed to the funding source, NOT to your nonprofit, to include the address of the funding source.The salutation should be to the director of the funding source.The letter should be one to two pages maximumThe first part of the letter should include an appreciation of your partner to submit a letter of support for your nonprofit for the specific grant. Include the CFDA number of the grant (if it’s federal), the title of the grant program and the source the funding is from; i.e. the Office of Violence Against Women or the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. It should also include the project name and what the project will do (think objective), the project grant amount, and the duration of the grant. For example, the Community School will support the Suicide Prevention Nonprofit’s YES LIFE! A project that will provide a suicide prevention summer camp for at-risk youth, ages 12-years-old to 16-years-old for three years totaling the amount of $200,000 from the AMAZING Foundation under the Youth Grant Project.The body of the email should include how your nonprofit and your partner have worked together in the past (on which projects, etc.) and/or are currently working together. This part of the letter can also include why the project is a good idea and some statistics to support the need of the project.In closing, your partner can mention again that they support the project and the impact the project will have on the community.For the signature, include the name of the director of your partner’s organization including a title, signature, and contact information.That’s it! This letter of support can provide a competitive advantage to other nonprofits who submit grants but do not include letters of support or have weak partners.So the trick is to draft this letter of support for your partners and ask them if they would be willing to sign it as soon as you decide to go after a grant!Do not just email it to them and expect an immediate response. In my years of grant writing, the most effective way is to personally call your contacts and explain to them the project and ask over the phone (or in-person) if they will provide a letter of support. Ask them if they would like a template (most likely they

Yes, it’s true, you need to ask some funding sources on a date before you actually go on a date. That’s what a Letter of Intent is all about. In order to get a date - you need to ASK for a date! Find out the tips on how to write a Letter of Intent! Also, check out the YouTube video and all the awesome sauce on our website for funding and grant writing! Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener? This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review! If you have any questions, feel free to email [email protected] I’d love to connect with you! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWzIfwJt0az9KKwKz1Uc8vg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyrustick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-rustick-0765b817/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Thanks for listening! Holly Rustick Expert Grant Writer & Bestselling Author https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/ ✨✨ Visit www.grantwritingandfunding.com to get the proven G.R.A.N.T.S. formula to write winning grants ✨✨

Hi Changemakers, A Letter of Inquiry is a gateway to funding. This Letter of Inquiry, not to be confused with Letter of Intent, can be the difference between a foundation accepting a full application from your nonprofit or shutting you down. These are 10 steps to Write a Successful Letter of Inquiry that will secure your Invitation to Apply for a Grant #1 Alignment You will normally find requests for Letters of Inquiry from private foundations. Basically, they want to get a snapshot of what your nonprofit is all about before they consider inviting you to share more in a full proposal. Just because there is tons of money out there, doesn’t mean you should apply to every single foundation in the world. #2 Overall Tips on Format Be succinct. No flowery prose here. Be logical and make sure you include an objective, goal, and budget. Do not use cute, flowery, or whimsical language. Save that for your blog or journal. #3 Salutation Include the date you are submitting at the top of the page, as well as the person’s name and title of who it should be addressed to (find a NAME – never just write ‘To Whom it May Concern’), and the address of the foundation. Utilize the good ole' fashioned, “Dear NAME of PERSON”. #4 Introduction (one short paragraph) Unless otherwise required by the foundations you will include steps #3 through #9. Your opening paragraph is where you get the attention of your reviewers from the foundation. Keep this paragraph very short. Do not explain the need and how you will roll out the project, yet. #5 The Need or the Why (2-3 Paragraphs) You’ve already stated what you need, now state why you need it. Give a few stats to back up the need. Try to utilize stats or surveys that are within the previous five years. #6 Project (2+ paragraphs) Explain your goal List the objectives List the activities List your partners #7 Outcomes and Evaluations (1–2 paragraphs) What are the main outcomes? How will you evaluate this? #8 Validation of your Nonprofit (1–2 paragraphs) The last part is where you get to explain why your nonprofit is a rock star. Tell why your nonprofit is the best to carry out the activity. #9 Budget (1–2 paragraphs) Most funding sources would like a snapshot of the budget. If you have space include a little snapshot of a graph of the money. #10 Conclusion (1 short paragraph) Provide a ‘Thank you’ and appreciation for the reviewer’s time. Also include a contact name, email address and phone number. These are the 10 steps to completing a successful Letter of Inquiry. The other thing is by doing this Letter of Inquiry you really have to get clear on your project. The 15-page grant will feel like a cinch after doing this Letter of Inquiry! Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener? This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review! If you have any questions, feel free to email [email protected] I’d love to connect with you! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWzIfwJt0az9KKwKz1Uc8vg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyrustick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-rustick-0765b817/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Thanks for listening! Holly Rustick Expert Grant Writer & Bestselling Author https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/ ✨✨ Visit www.grantwritingandfunding.com to get the proven G.R.A.N.T.S. formula to write winning grants ✨✨

Hi Changemakers, In early December I finished facilitating a 10-week Strategic Planning Group. Those nonprofits are definitely set up and ahead of the curve in 2019! In any case, even if you haven’t sat down and did your planning yet, or even if you have, you are going to want to listen to this episode. This is a snapshot of one of the modules from the Strategic Planning Course. It is one that the nonprofits in the group got really excited about and will give you excellent tips on: How to get ahead of your 2019 and make sure that you have: Funding Success Eliminate Burnout Avoid Competition Okay, let’s get into your Calendar Tips. (Get your FREE Printable by clicking: https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/057-your-best-year-how-increase-funding-eliminate-burnout-avoid-competition - or just visit www.grantwritingandfunding.com and go to podcast episode 57). The best thing to do is to print out a full-page of a 2019 calendar that lists all the months and dates, and a piece of paper. (Or download the FREE Printable), where we have everything set up for you! Here are some questions to consider: What are our nonprofit’s milestone events for the upcoming year? What are other community-wide big events for the upcoming year? Do we need to adjust the dates of our events? What are the grant and funding timelines in the upcoming year? Click out episode 57 on www.grantwritingandfunding.com for your FREE Printable! Once you have really nailed down this calendar, then make it available and visible for your staff. Let people know what projects are in the works and what they should be prepping for. This activity really shouldn’t take very long at all yet will save your nonprofit hours and hours (maybe even eliminate repeating the same unsuccessful year) and will help everyone understand the vision. You can also: Mitigate having an unsuccessful fundraiser or missing a grant deadline simply by: Planning it in advance Getting corporate funders to commit to funding your event before others Prepping for grants! If you enjoy listening to this podcast, then please leave a review on iTunes or Stitcher! I love seeing reviews and personally read every single one of them! Talk with you all next week, as I share more grant writing and funding tips to help advance your nonprofit organization. Happy New Year! Warmly, Holly Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener? This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review! If you have any questions, feel free to email [email protected] I’d love to connect with you! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWzIfwJt0az9KKwKz1Uc8vg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyrustick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-rustick-0765b817/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Thanks for listening! Holly Rustick Expert Grant Writer & Bestselling Author https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/ ✨✨ Visit www.grantwritingandfunding.com to get the proven G.R.A.N.T.S. formula to write winning grants ✨✨

This word should guide you and keep you focused so you don’t get busy chasing the shiny pennies, trapped in projects that don’t meet your mission, or say yes (or no!) to partners that aren’t aligned with your vision. Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener? This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review! If you have any questions, feel free to email [email protected] I’d love to connect with you! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWzIfwJt0az9KKwKz1Uc8vg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyrustick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-rustick-0765b817/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Thanks for listening! Holly Rustick Expert Grant Writer & Bestselling Author https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/ ✨✨ Visit www.grantwritingandfunding.com to get the proven G.R.A.N.T.S. formula to write winning grants ✨✨

Check out the simple 10-Step Check to Write Winning Grants. Be sure to check all the guidelines, determine eligibility, prepare, take the steps to create a strong proposal. Then be sure to review and submit. Happy grant writing! Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener? This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review! If you have any questions, feel free to email [email protected] I’d love to connect with you! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWzIfwJt0az9KKwKz1Uc8vg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyrustick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-rustick-0765b817/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Thanks for listening! Holly Rustick Expert Grant Writer & Bestselling Author https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/ ✨✨ Visit www.grantwritingandfunding.com to get the proven G.R.A.N.T.S. formula to write winning grants ✨✨

This secret formula can unlock millions of dollars from the ether that are awaiting to be given to your nonprofit. It can increase partnerships and relationships at an exponential level. It can increase prosperity for your staff so that they are no longer glorified volunteers. Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener? This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review! If you have any questions, feel free to email [email protected] I’d love to connect with you! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWzIfwJt0az9KKwKz1Uc8vg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyrustick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-rustick-0765b817/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Thanks for listening! Holly Rustick Expert Grant Writer & Bestselling Author https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/ ✨✨ Visit www.grantwritingandfunding.com to get the proven G.R.A.N.T.S. formula to write winning grants ✨✨

This week’s podcast is focused on a wonderful question that we receive quite frequently. Thank you to Susan Silverman, President of the Women’s Tax Resolution Center, Inc. for asking, “My challenge is we are a very small and new nonprofit and don’t have enough of a track record for grants, etc. Do you have any thoughts on how we could get that first grant?” Tune in to learn six ways your organization can secure funding! Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener? This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review! If you have any questions, feel free to email [email protected] I’d love to connect with you! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWzIfwJt0az9KKwKz1Uc8vg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyrustick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-rustick-0765b817/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Thanks for listening! Holly Rustick Expert Grant Writer & Bestselling Author https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/ ✨✨ Visit www.grantwritingandfunding.com to get the proven G.R.A.N.T.S. formula to write winning grants ✨✨

This week, we have so much to be thankful for! Tune in as I share 7 tips to help you increase your fundraising success around Thanksgiving. These ideas are designed to be fun, meaningful, and impactful—not only during the Thanksgiving season but for other holidays throughout the year as well. If you’re looking to deepen donor relationships, increase engagement, and bring more heart into your fundraising, this episode is for you.ABOUT HOLLY RUSTICKGrant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030. Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship.Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy, past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella.CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICKWebsite: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/RESOURCES:Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipRATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCASTFavor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickLeading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

As we are quickly approaching the holiday season we will be focusing on tips to help you with your organization's end of the year giving. Check out these 6 ways you can stand out on #GivingTuesday! Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener? This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review! If you have any questions, feel free to email [email protected] I’d love to connect with you! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWzIfwJt0az9KKwKz1Uc8vg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyrustick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-rustick-0765b817/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Thanks for listening! Holly Rustick Expert Grant Writer & Bestselling Author https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/ ✨✨ Visit www.grantwritingandfunding.com to get the proven G.R.A.N.T.S. formula to write winning grants ✨✨

In-kind resources are one of the most overlooked—but incredibly valuable—assets your nonprofit can leverage.These are the goods, services, and people who help offset the costs of running your organization. In other words, they are budget-relieving resources that can significantly expand your capacity without increasing your expenses.But here’s the key: their value shouldn’t just be appreciated—it should be documented and strategically used.In this episode, we break down what in-kind resources really are, how to identify them within your organization, and why they play such an important role in both relationship-building and grant applications.You’ll learn how recognizing and tracking these contributions can strengthen your funding proposals, demonstrate community support, and position your nonprofit as more sustainable and impactful.If you’re looking to better leverage what you already have—and elevate your grant writing skills in the process—this episode is for you.ABOUT HOLLY RUSTICKGrant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030. Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship.Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy, past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella. CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICKWebsite: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/RESOURCES:Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipRATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCASTFavor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickLeading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

What does it mean to truly be fearless in following your passion?In this episode, we explore that question through the inspiring work of Niñas Sin Miedo (Fearless Girls), an international nonprofit dedicated to empowering young girls. Dylan Mehri joins us to share the mission behind Niñas Sin Miedo and his experience fundraising for an organization working across borders. We dive into the unique challenges and opportunities that come with international nonprofit work, along with practical insights on how to approach fundraising in a global context.This is a stimulating, solution-oriented conversation that highlights not only the importance of mission-driven work, but also the strategies needed to sustain it. If you’re interested in international nonprofits, fundraising, or building impact beyond borders, this episode will leave you inspired and informed.ABOUT OUR GUESTDylan Mehri is a nonprofit leader and advocate dedicated to advancing global impact through mission-driven work. He is involved with Niñas Sin Miedo (Fearless Girls), an international nonprofit focused on empowering young girls through education, leadership development, and community support.With experience in fundraising and nonprofit development, Dylan is passionate about creating opportunities for underserved communities and supporting initiatives that foster confidence, resilience, and empowerment in youth around the world.OTHER RESOURCES:Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipRATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCASTFavor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickLeading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

How are other nonprofits making money? Can nonprofits even do that? Yes! You are still a business, there are just key differences for nonprofit organizations and what you do with earned income. ✨✨ Visit www.grantwritingandfunding.com to get the proven G.R.A.N.T.S. formula to write winning grants ✨✨ Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener? This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review! If you have any questions, feel free to email [email protected] I’d love to connect with you! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWzIfwJt0az9KKwKz1Uc8vg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyrustick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-rustick-0765b817/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Thanks for listening! Holly Rustick Expert Grant Writer & Bestselling Author https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/ ✨✨ Visit www.grantwritingandfunding.com to get the proven G.R.A.N.T.S. formula to write winning grants ✨✨

No matter how well you plan your fundraising event, things can still go wrong. A sudden storm, a keynote speaker canceling last minute, or even a power outage—these unexpected disruptions can quickly derail your event if you’re not prepared. That’s why having a contingency plan isn’t optional—it’s essential.In this episode, we dive into how to proactively plan for the unexpected so your event can still succeed, no matter what happens.We talk about how to think through potential risks, identify weak points in your event planning, and create a solid “Plan B” (and even Plan C) so you’re never caught off guard. Because the goal isn’t perfection—it’s preparedness. If you want to host smoother, more resilient fundraising events that can adapt to real-world challenges, this episode will give you the mindset and strategies to make it happen.ABOUT HOLLY RUSTICKGrant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030. Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship.Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy, past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella. CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICKWebsite: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/RESOURCES:Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home.https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipRATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCASTFavor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickLeading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

Values are a critical part of your nonprofit organization. Knowing your organization's values is important in decision making, interactions and implementing programs and projects. This often overlooked component has powerful influence on the culture of your nonprofit! ✨✨ Visit www.grantwritingandfunding.com to get the proven G.R.A.N.T.S. formula to write winning grants ✨✨ Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener? This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review! If you have any questions, feel free to email [email protected] I’d love to connect with you! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWzIfwJt0az9KKwKz1Uc8vg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyrustick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-rustick-0765b817/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Thanks for listening! Holly Rustick Expert Grant Writer & Bestselling Author https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/ ✨✨ Visit www.grantwritingandfunding.com to get the proven G.R.A.N.T.S. formula to write winning grants ✨✨

While running your nonprofit, you may find yourself in a bit of a pickle. You know you need support. You’d love to hire a consultant to write your grants, run your crowdfunding campaigns, develop donors, or lead your next big fundraiser—but the reality is, you just don’t have the budget to bring in those experts.So what do you do?In this episode, we explore a powerful (and often overlooked) solution: leveraging your volunteers and board members to support your grant writing efforts—without you having to personally train them.Yes, it’s possible.We’ll talk about how to tap into the skills already within your network, how to set up systems that support success, and how to guide your team in contributing to grant writing efforts in a way that’s strategic, effective, and sustainable.If you’re looking for creative ways to move your funding forward without stretching your budget even thinner, this episode will open up new possibilities.ABOUT HOLLY RUSTICKGrant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030. Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship.Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy, past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella. CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICKWebsite: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/RESOURCES:Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipRATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCASTFavor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickLeading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

Are you Frustrating your Volunteers? Here are 8 Ways to Recruit and Retain Volunteers for your Nonprofit. Volunteers can provide help, support, and manpower for nonprofits. However, does your nonprofit have the necessary processes in place to take full of advantage of your volunteers? Many nonprofits I have come across understand the importance of volunteers and even WANT more volunteers, but unfortunately are not organized enough to really utilize volunteers well for their nonprofits. You may be confusing and even frustrating your volunteers if you relate to one of the following: • After a volunteer starts, you realize it is more work for you to organize yourself to give the volunteer tasks to complete • There never seems to be enough work for the volunteer, but you seem to be still as busy as ever • Your volunteers do not stick around for long • You never provide appreciation days or incentives for your volunteers • You do not include your volunteers as part of your nonprofit morale or culture • You have no idea where all the volunteer forms are • You want to get a bunch of grant money, but you have nothing in place to mobilize volunteers I get it. You might be a small or start-up nonprofit and your limited staff are wearing ten hats each as it is. But if you want to grow, then it is important to take the time to get organized and prepared for people to help you. Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener? This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review! If you have any questions, feel free to email [email protected]

Seven steps to help guide the review of foundations and grant guidelines. Be sure the foundation and your organization are aligned before you pursue funding opportunities. Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener? This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review! If you have any questions, feel free to email [email protected] Thanks for listening! Holly Rustick Expert Grant Writer & Bestselling Author https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/

Writing a grant proposal can feel overwhelming. It can be the looming monster in the back of your mind because you know a deadline is coming up, but you just can’t seem to make the time to sit down, read over the application guidelines and start writing. Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener? This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review! If you have any questions, feel free to email [email protected] Thanks for listening! Holly Rustick Expert Grant Writer & Bestselling Author https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/

Volunteers CANNOT be given a tax-deduction based on their hours, but they CAN be given a tax-deduction on a number of other items, such as travel expenses, uniforms, donates supplies etc. as long as the nonprofit is a registered IRS Tax-exempt 501(c)3. Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener? This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review! If you have any questions, feel free to email [email protected] I’d love to connect with you! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWzIfwJt0az9KKwKz1Uc8vg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyrustick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-rustick-0765b817/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Thanks for listening! Holly Rustick Expert Grant Writer & Bestselling Author https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/

In this episode, Holly Rustick dives into what to do when your workload feels overwhelming and grant writing keeps getting pushed to the bottom of your to-do list. If you’ve ever felt buried under endless tasks, overcommitted by saying “yes” too often, or struggled to find enough time in the day, this episode is for you. Holly shares practical strategies to manage your time more effectively, set better boundaries, prioritize high-impact work, and create space to stay focused and productive—so you can actually get your grant writing done without burnout.ABOUT HOLLY RUSTICKGrant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030. Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship.Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy, past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, and serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella.CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICKWebsite: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/RESOURCES:Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipRATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCASTFavor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickLeading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

You are developing a really cool solution to a problem or providing a service/product that can benefit others, but the thing is you are a for-profit. You want to help others, but you also need cash to run this part of your business. You aren’t sure if you can get grants for your idea/product/service as you have been getting mixed messages from those around you. ABOUT HOLLY RUSTICKGrant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030. Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship. Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy, past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella. CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICK Website: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/ RESOURCES:Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship RATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCASTFavor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickLeading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

Here is the thing. It takes focus to write a grant. But the real thing that it takes is a project. If you do not have a specific project that you know you need funding for, then it’s like trying to paint a picture with rocks. It will be sloppy, awkward, and unprofessional. The grant reviewers will know that you are just trying to make something work and are trying to fit a square into a circle. Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener? This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review! If you have any questions, feel free to email [email protected] I’d love to connect with you! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWzIfwJt0az9KKwKz1Uc8vg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyrustick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-rustick-0765b817/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Thanks for listening! Holly Rustick Expert Grant Writer & Bestselling Author https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/

Did you know that you can make money while becoming a better grant writer? What?! Yes, indeed. You can also learn about the federal grant process and meet other specialists. How? By becoming a federal grant reviewer. Check out this podcast on how to 10x your grant writing skills while getting PAID to be a federal grant peer reviewer. Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener? This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review! If you have any questions, feel free to email [email protected] I’d love to connect with you! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWzIfwJt0az9KKwKz1Uc8vg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyrustick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-rustick-0765b817/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Thanks for listening! Holly Rustick Expert Grant Writer & Bestselling Author https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/

Is your nonprofit including an indirect cost rate in your budget and grant applications? Did you know you can have a maximum 10% indirect cost rate according to federal regulations? Learn why your organization should include this line item to your budget. Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener? This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review! If you have any questions, feel free to email [email protected] I’d love to connect with you! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWzIfwJt0az9KKwKz1Uc8vg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyrustick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-rustick-0765b817/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Thanks for listening! Holly Rustick Expert Grant Writer & Bestselling Author https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/

You’ve put your heart and soul into it. You may have lost sleep. You definitely missed the latest Breaking Bad episode. Or you paid a grant writer a hefty sum. For all of that, what you got was a mass email that started with the lines, “We regret to inform you…” Your heart plunges and you decide to write off grants for the rest of the year… or for the rest of your life. You might have at some point said, Enough with that foundation / federal grant. I’ll never get it. I get it. Nobody likes rejection, especially after they put so much time or funding into writing a grant. Nobody likes to see their much-needed project swatted away and not even given a chance. This isn’t always a bad thing. What?! Holly have you lost your mind? Okay, it’s not the best scenario (I’m not that much of a Pollyanna), but it’s not all lost time, energy, and moola. Listen to today's episode to hear 10 Ways to Embrace Grant Rejection. This will make you WAY less frustrated. Believe me. Want to read the article instead? Jump over to www.grantwritingandfunding.com. Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener? This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review! If you have any questions, feel free to email [email protected] I’d love to connect with you! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWzIfwJt0az9KKwKz1Uc8vg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyrustick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-rustick-0765b817/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/grantwritingandfunding/ Thanks for listening! Holly Rustick Expert Grant Writer & Bestselling Author https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/