One of the most common questions nonprofits ask when they start chasing funding is: Should I hire a grant writer? The honest answer is: it depends — but for most nonprofits at the growth stage, a skilled grant writer is one of the best investments you can make. This post walks you through what grant writers do, what they charge, where to find them, and how to know when you're ready to hire one.
What Does a Grant Writer Actually Do?
A grant writer doesn't just write. A good one researches grants that match your mission, location, and budget; writes Letters of Inquiry (LOIs) and full applications; tracks deadlines and manages your grant calendar; translates your programs into language grantors understand; and aligns your budget narrative with the funder's priorities. In short, they sit between your mission and the money — and make sure the two speak the same language.
1. Hourly Rate
Range: $50–$150/hour. Best for small projects, LOIs, or one-time applications. Pros: Predictable scope. Cons: Can add up fast on complex applications.
2. Flat Fee Per Application
Range: $500–$5,000 per grant. Best for federal grants, foundation applications, and large asks. Pros: You know the total cost upfront. Cons: Quality varies widely — always review a writing sample before you hire.
3. Monthly Retainer
Range: $1,500–$5,000/month. Best for nonprofits with ongoing grant needs and multiple funders. Pros: Dedicated capacity and strategic support. Cons: Higher commitment; best for orgs with an established funding pipeline.
One Rule You Must Know
Legitimate grant writers do NOT charge a percentage of the grant award. If someone proposes a "contingency fee" (e.g., "I take 10% of what you're awarded"), that violates the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Code of Ethics and is a red flag. Walk away.
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Candid's Foundation Directory / GrantStation
Candid (formerly GuideStar/Foundation Center) has directories of grant professionals. Start at learning.candid.org.
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LinkedIn
Search "grant writer New Jersey nonprofit" or "grant consultant 501c3." Look for profiles with specific nonprofit sectors listed and sample work.
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Grants Professionals Association (GPA)
The GPA maintains a directory of credentialed grant professionals at grantprofessionals.org. Members adhere to a code of ethics and many hold the GPC (Grant Professional Certified) credential.
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Your Local Nonprofit Network
Ask peer organizations who they use. A warm referral in your region is worth more than a cold directory listing.
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Nonprofit Associations of New Jersey (NANJ)
NANJ connects NJ nonprofits with resources and consultants. Visit nanj.org for member directories and referrals.
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What grants have you written that were funded?
Ask for examples in your sector and size range. A track record of funded grants — not just submitted ones — is the clearest proof of skill.
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Can I see a writing sample?
Specifically an LOI or application narrative. You want to see how they write before you sign anything.
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How do you charge, and what's included?
Clarify whether research, revisions, and deadline tracking are included in the fee or billed separately.
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Do you have capacity for my timeline?
Grant writers book up — especially in spring and fall when most foundations have open cycles.
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How do you handle deadlines?
What's your process if something comes up? A professional grant writer will have a clear answer.
When You're NOT Ready to Hire a Grant Writer
A grant writer can't fix a weak organizational foundation. Before you hire, make sure you have: a signed 501(c)(3) determination letter, an active board of directors with meeting minutes, a clear mission and documented programs, a bank account in the nonprofit's name, a professional website (grantors will look), financial statements (even basic ones), and a Candid/GuideStar profile — ideally Silver seal or higher. If those aren't in place yet, start there. A grant writer working on a "grant ready" organization will produce far better results.
Grant Ready: The Complete Guide for Nonprofits (E-Book)
At Community Faith Wealth Mission, we teach nonprofits how to become grant ready through our workshops and resources — so when you bring in a professional grant writer, you're set up for success, not just spending money hoping for a result. Our Grant Ready E-Book walks through every element a grantor looks for, including the exact documentation you need before approaching funders.
Get the e-book here →Grant Writing Workshops
If you're ready to go further, our Grant Writing Workshops cover everything from researching funders to submitting your first application.
See upcoming events →
Hiring a grant writer is a smart investment — but only when your organization is ready. Build your foundation first, then bring in the professional to help you reach the funders you couldn't access on your own.