Grant Writing & Funding

  • Author: Vários
  • Narrator: Vários
  • Publisher: Podcast
  • Duration: 279:11:17
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Synopsis

Holly Rustick, creator of WEGO Consulting, is known as the grant girl. Shes been on both sides of the grant writing coin writing them for over a decade as well as managing and reviewing them on behalf of numerous organizations. She also conducts grant training workshops, offers grant-related products, and hosts this podcast. Holding a Masters in International Political Economy and a Bachelors in Political Science, Holly is not only a successful technical writer for federal contract bids but also facilitates fundraisers, crowd funding campaigns and solicits in-kind donations from large corporations. "Grant Writing & Funding" offers you tidbits of tips, advice, and answers about grants and funding. Check out these nuggets!Check out www.grantwritingandfunding.com for FREE grant writing and funding templates!

Episodes

  • How to Start a Freelance Grant Writing Business: Tips & Logistics

    10/06/2025 Duration: 16min

    THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academyLearn how to kickstart your freelance grant writing business, whether as a full-time income source or a part-time side hustle. We'll cover essential administrative logistics like incorporating your business, choosing a business name, and the benefits of going freelance. Discover the flexibility and earning potential of grant writing, ideal for various life situations. Get tips on setting your services and pricing, and stay tuned for more insights on going full-time or part-time in the next video!Links Mentioned:Grant Professional Mentorship: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipFreelance Grant Writer Academy: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Tune in today to listen to t

  • HOW EOWYN WENT FROM WORKING IN HIGHER ED TO GETTING HER FIRST GRANT WRITING CLIENT (AND OPERA NONPROFIT)

    09/06/2025 Duration: 47min

    THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academyHolly Rustick interviews Éowyn Melaragno, who shares her journey from a career in higher education to becoming a successful grant writer. Éowyn discusses her motivations for transitioning into grant writing, the valuable support she received from the Freelance Grant Writer Academy, and the importance of community in building confidence and skills. She reflects on her first client experience, the challenges of navigating client relationships, and the mindset shifts that have helped her thrive in the nonprofit sector. Tune in today to listen to this podcast. To learn more about the podcast episodes go to https://grantwritingandfunding.com/grant-writing-podcast/ "Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple PodcastsFavor,

  • Ep: 404 Do You Need a Grant Writing Certification? Here’s the Truth

    03/06/2025 Duration: 15min

    In this episode, Holly Rustic, founder and CEO of the Freelance Grant Writer Academy, shares essential tips for starting a freelance grant writing business. Learn where to find clients, the key skills needed, and why you don't need certifications or extensive experience to get started. Holly also discusses the value of practical experience, business acumen, and how to grow your confidence and skills in grant writing. Tune in for expert insights and actionable advice to build a successful freelance grant writing career.Links Mentioned:Grant Professional Mentorship: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipFreelance Grant Writer Academy: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Tune in today to listen to this podcast.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward writing higher quality grant

  • From State Senator to Grant Writer: Tina Maharath's Journey

    03/06/2025 Duration: 36min

    In this episode, Holly Rustick interviews Tina Maharath, a former state senator turned grant writer, who shares her journey from volunteering in grant writing to establishing her own business, Lobby Edge. Tina discusses her experiences in the Academy, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the importance of networking and marketing in the nonprofit sector. She emphasizes the need for nonprofits to understand the opportunities available through state contracts and the value of hiring lobbyists for funding. Tina also highlights the diverse services she offers, including grant writing and government contracts, and encourages aspiring grant writers to invest in their skills and businesses.Tune in today to listen to this podcast. To learn more about the podcast episodes go to https://grantwritingandfunding.com/grant-writing-podcast/ "Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple PodcastsFavor, 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 f

  • Ep: 403 Spilling the Tea on all Things AI and Grant Writing with Phil Deng

    27/05/2025 Duration: 01h10min

    Grant pros, we’re spilling the tea! Holly Rustick and Philip Deng (Grantable CEO) dive into the wild world of AI + grant writing—from cheap-clothes tech to deep strategy. If you’re using (or side-eyeing) AI for grant writing, this one’s a must-listen.THIS episode! Grant writers, grab your headphones—because we’re spilling the tea on all things AI! Holly Rustick sits down with Philip Deng, CEO of Grantable, to talk about how AI is shaking up grant writing. From the risks of ‘fast fashion’ tech to the need for human strategy, this convo dives into what’s real, what’s hype, and how to stay curious in the AI age.If you are considering, or currently using, AI for grant writing - tune in today! Phil and Holly go deep into items like:How AI can be like ‘cheap clothes’ if not used correctlyWill grant writers be left behind if they aren’t using AI?How AI is impacting the environmentWhy and how thought needs to be a part of AI and grant writingHow to be curious with AI when navigating the rapidly changing landscapeLink

  • Ep: 402 Unlocking Museum and Nonprofit Grant Opportunities with Shiloh Holley

    20/05/2025 Duration: 34min

    In this conversation, Holly Rustick interviews Shiloh Holley, founder of Aderworks Consulting, who shares her journey into grant writing and consulting for nonprofits, particularly museums. Shiloh discusses her transition from executive director to consultant, the development of grant writing products, and the challenges faced by museums in securing funding. She emphasizes the importance of diversifying funding sources and using data to inform fundraising strategies. The conversation highlights the collaborative nature of consulting and the need for nonprofits to adapt to changing funding landscapes.Links Mentioned:Grant Professional Mentorship: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipFreelance Grant Writer Academy: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Tune in today to listen to this podcast.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This help

  • Ep. 401 How Grant Writers Priced Their Services in the Past (Replay)

    13/05/2025 Duration: 31min

    Find out how much grant writers charged in 2023 for their grant writing services.Join this Replay from Rachel Waterman from last year as we prepare for the upcoming NEW survey results of 2024.First, give a catch up to where freelance grant writers were in their pricing in 2023. And be sure to join us for the upcoming FREE Survey Results Webinar on May 14th! You will hear how much grant consultants are charging, how they feel about charging, and gaps in pricing.This is the 3rd year that Grant Writing & Funding has hosted GDS Grant Professional Survey Results!In the upcoming workshop on May 14th, from 4 pm - 5:30 pm EST, Rachel will unveil the 2024 Grant Professional Survey results AND we will have some time to talk about those results!LINK HERE: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/survey-pricingLinks Mentioned:Grant Professional Mentorship: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipFreelance Grant Writer Academy: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Tune in today to listen to

  • Celebrating 400 Episodes: Top Grant Writing Tips and Encouragement from 35 Industry Leaders AND a Free Master Grant Template

    09/05/2025 Duration: 44min

    We have exciting news to share: The Grant Writing & Funding Podcast just hit its 400th episode!

  • Ep: 399: State of Grants 2025: A Conversation with Mike Chamberlain of GPA - Part 2

    29/04/2025 Duration: 31min

    Executive Director of the Grant Professionals Association (GPA), Mike Chamberlain and Holly Rustick of Grant Writing & Funding to discuss the role of GPA in supporting grant professionals through advocacy, community building, and professionalism. Holly and Mike delve into the importance of job classification for grant professionals, the annual salary and benefits survey, and the future of grant writing in 2025 amidst changing federal policies and economic conditions. They also discuss the intricacies of the grant application process, the evolving landscape of funding, and the importance of adaptability for grant professionals. They explore the necessity of diversifying funding sources, overcoming assumptions in grant writing, and the value of repurposing materials for broader applications. The discussion also highlights the resilience required in the face of uncertainty and the upcoming Grant Summit as a vital community-building opportunity for grant professionals.Watch Video Podcast HERE: https://youtu.b

  • State of Grants 2025: A Conversation with Mike Chamberlain of GPA - Part 1

    23/04/2025 Duration: 32min

    Executive Director of the Grant Professionals Association (GPA), Mike Chamberlain and Holly Rustick of Grant Writing & Funding to discuss the role of GPA in supporting grant professionals through advocacy, community building, and professionalism. Holly and Mike delve into the importance of job classification for grant professionals, the annual salary and benefits survey, and the future of grant writing in 2025 amidst changing federal policies and economic conditions.They also discuss the intricacies of the grant application process, the evolving landscape of funding, and the importance of adaptability for grant professionals. They explore the necessity of diversifying funding sources, overcoming assumptions in grant writing, and the value of repurposing materials for broader applications.The discussion also highlights the resilience required in the face of uncertainty and the upcoming Grant Summit as a vital community-building opportunity for grant professionals.Watch Video Podcast HERE: youtu.be/HC0KoDvY

  • Ep: 397 How AI Is Changing Grant Writing and What You Need to Know

    15/04/2025 Duration: 13min

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the grant writing world, but maybe not how you imagine. Sure you could go ChatGPT, put in a Request for Proposal and ask it to produce a grant proposal. But that grant would not get funded. Why? Before AI can produce a quality grant proposal, you need to provide it with your own original content. Today’s AI models need that original content to use, edit, and respond to. In other words, AI grant writing still requires work! In other words, the nonprofit sector still needs grant writers. However, AI tools can make grant writing easier and more efficient. Through my Freelance Grant Writer Academy, I’ve trained thousands of grant writers, helping them build thriving grant writing businesses. It also gives me a unique insight into how grant writers are really using tools like AI. Let’s take a look at what’s working with grant writing and AI (and what isn’t). Watch Video Podcast HERE: https://youtu.be/CbsNL22cM3U Related Links: -Why AI Won’t Take Your Grant Writing Job: http

  • Ep: 396 Grant Writing Myths: What No One Will Tell You About this Career

    07/04/2025 Duration: 21min

    Surprisingly, there are a lot of myths out there about grant writing. From the myth of working on commission to nonprofits not having money to hire grant writers, these myths might hold you back from even starting a career in grant writing. Why are there so many grant writing myths out there? Because a lot of folks aren’t familiar with grant writing or nonprofit organizations in general. Even many folks who start nonprofit organizations aren’t familiar with how they operate, they just have a passion for helping causes. Grant writing (to non-grant writers) also feels very mysterious and a bit untouchable. However, it’s not. Grant writing as a career is simply offering a service for organizations using your skills and experience. With a successful 20-year grant writing career that is still going strong, I decided it was time to break down some of these myths! Watch Video Podcast Here: https://youtu.be/Kzbv2Zm4lZo Links Mentioned: Grant Professional Mentorship: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshi

  • Ep: 395 Going from Scarcity Mindset to Courage with a 4-Day Workweek as a Grant Consultant

    03/04/2025 Duration: 38min

    In this week’s podcast Holly Rustick brings Laura Hull, Grant Consultant of Premio Services, LLC on the Grant Writing & Funding podcast. In this conversation, we discuss: -Laura’s journey into grant writing -How Laura negotiated with her job to get health insurance -Hiring and how it has helped to have support -Managing a growing grant writing business as a single mom. About Laura Hull Laura is a first generation U.S. immigrant with more than a decade of grants experience and nonprofit leadership in multicultural contexts. Laura launched PSI in 2017 to elevate the grants profession and increase social impact by providing transformational grants services to nonprofits. She delivers high quality consulting to nonprofits seeking to expand their grant portfolios by uncovering barriers and finding the right resources to meet unique needs. With creative strategy, an average 98% funding success rate, and a data-driven commitment to success, Laura offers the best in grant services to her clients and sector. Ou

  • Bonus Ep: The First Hire You Shouldn't Make as a Grant Professional

    02/04/2025 Duration: 08min

    Many grant professionals who are booking out clients and feeling overwhelmed think they need to hire a full-time, credentialed grant writer ASAP. They assume an experienced hire will require less training and be easier to manage. But here’s the truth: hiring a fully credentialed grant writer is NOT the first team member you should bring on. In this episode, we break down why this is a costly mistake and what you should do instead. You’ll learn: ✅ Why hiring a credentialed grant writer is your most expensive hire ✅ Why you still need to train any new hire in your methods, even if they have experience ✅ The importance of creating Systems and SOPs before bringing in a team ✅ A smarter, more affordable way to get help with research and admin tasks first You deserve to feel confident and financially safe as you build your team. Inside the Grant Professional Mentorship, we teach you exactly who to hire first, how much your business can afford, and how to streamline your hiring process with our Part-Time Lean Team

  • Bonus Ep. How to Recession-Proof Your Grant Writing Business - Why Waiting Won’t Work

    01/04/2025 Duration: 12min

    The world feels uncertain, but your grant writing business doesn’t have to be. In this episode, we talk about why waiting for the "right time" can cost you opportunities—and how leaning into change can set you up for success. I’ll also share exciting updates about our Grant Professional Mentorship, including new Innovation Calls designed to help you pivot, expand, and double your revenue in 2024.

  • Bonus Ep: How to Hire a Grant Writer in Your Grant Writing Business & Stop Doing all the Client Work

    31/03/2025 Duration: 24min

    If you're a freelance grant writer or running a service-based business, there comes a point where you hit a financial and time ceiling. To scale beyond $50,000 to $100,000 per year, outsourcing is crucial. In this episode, we explore when and how to hire grant writers to help you grow your business without burnout. Doors to the Grant Professional Mentorship close on Friday, April 4th at 11:59 pm EST. The Grant Professional Mentorship is a 12-Month Group Coaching Mastermind for Grant Professionals to Double Your Business Revenue with a Team, Systems, and Scalable Offers - without Burning Out. Join now: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Signs it’s time to start outsourcing in your grant writing business How to hire the right grant writers and avoid common hiring mistakes The difference between subcontracting and hiring contractors How to track time and set task expectations Why Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are essential for smooth onboarding How

  • Bonus Ep: Replay "Double Your Grant Writing Revenue, Writing Fewer Grants, During Any Administration"

    26/03/2025 Duration: 01h49min

    Join Holly and hundreds of folks who signed up for this Webinar, "Double your Grant Writing Business Revenue, by Writing Fewer Grants, During any Administration". The doors are now open to the Grant Professional Mentorship! The Grant Professional Mentorship is a 12-Month Group Coaching Mastermind for Grant Professionals to Double Your Business Revenue with a Team, Systems, and Scalable Offers - without Burning Out. We have limited seats available. Seats are first-come, first-served. Once our seats fill up, we will not take any further calls. This is the first time in 2025 that our Grant Professional Mentorship has OPENED publicly and might be the only time this year. The Investment for the Mentorship is one payment of $6,000 (paid in full bonus includes a 1:1 Business Strategy Call with Holly) or 6 payments of $1,000. Join by April 4th, 2025 at 11:59 pm EST or book a Sales Call: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/grant-professional-mentorship

  • Ep: 394 Growing a Grant Writing Business from $5k to $200k in 2 years with Isatou

    19/03/2025 Duration: 38min

    In this conversation, Isatou Bittaye-Jobe shares her journey from being an in-house grant writer to becoming a freelance grant writer specializing in grassroots social justice organizations. She discusses the challenges and opportunities in the funding landscape, particularly the shift from federal to foundation grants. Isatou emphasizes the importance of mentorship and community support in her business growth, highlighting how delegation and team building have allowed her to achieve a better work-life balance. Holly and Isatou also touch on the mindset shifts necessary for success in the nonprofit sector. Connect with Isatou Bittaye-Jobe: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isatoubittayejobe/ Website: https://www.amikhaconsulting.com/ Links Mentioned: Free Webinar on March 25th, 2025 at 4 pm EST “Double Your Grant Writing Business, Writing Fewer Grants, During any Administration”: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship-webinar Grant Professional Mentorship: https://grantwritingandfunding.co

  • Bonus Ep: From Higher Education Grant Writer Job to Retirement Business

    18/03/2025 Duration: 26min

    Go behind-the-scenes of the Grant Professional Mentorship with Dr. Cheri Westmoreland of Spirit Excel. Doors to the Grant Professional Mentorship Close on Friday, April 4th, 2025 at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/grant-professional-mentorship In this episode, Holly Rustick interviews Dr. Cheri Westmoreland, CEO of Spirit Excel, who shares her extensive experience in grant writing and management. Dr. Westmoreland discusses her journey from federal grants to foundation grants, the importance of compliance, and how mentorship has helped her build confidence and business acumen. She emphasizes the need for nonprofits to adapt to changing funding landscapes and the value of investing in oneself through mentorship programs. The conversation highlights the challenges and successes of managing a grant writing business while working full-time, and the evolution from being a grant writer to becoming a business owner. Takeaways - Dr. Westmoreland has 30 years of grant management experience. -

  • Ep. 392 3 Items to Restructure Your Grant Writing Business in 2025

    12/03/2025 Duration: 11min

    You may need to restructure your grant writing business in 2025. Meaning three main things need to be re-evaluated: -Offers -Systems -Team There has been a lot going on with grants in the last month, and it’s clear that there will be changes in 2025. Does that mean all grant funding is gone or your clients will dry up? No. But you may need to get back to the heart of your business. Pivoting is a word you may be bringing back into your vocabulary this year. Knowing what service offers to keep, what to double down on, and what to let go is all vital to growing your revenue and serving your clients. As a grant writing CEO (yes, you’ve graduated from the thought you are ‘only’ a freelancer), you may even have a virtual assistant and/or subcontract grant writer or two on your team. You may be wondering if you need to restructure your team and offers in 2025 with everything that is happening with the new Administration. #1 - Restructure Your Grant Writing Offers If you have federal grant writing service off

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