Federal and State Government Agencies that Fund Prevention | Related Federal Initiatives | Announcement of New National Coordinator Program | Foundations as a Funding Source for Prevention | Ten Tips for Writing Successful Proposals | Identifying a Qualified Grant Writer | Tips for Developing Relationships with Potential Funders |

From Tips for Finding and Working with Freelance Grantwriters. Available online at www.gse.harvard.edu/~hgseosr/toolbox.html#freelancers.

Your planning team may decide that it lacks the time and/or the expertise to write a successful grant proposal. If this is the case AND your team possesses sufficient resources, you may elect to hire an external grant writer. Here are some tips for identifying a qualified person for this job.

Questions to Ask

• How much experience does the candidate have in the field of prevention?

• Does the candidate have a history of success writing similar grants?

• Is the candidate a full-time grant writer?

• How many current clients/work commitments does the candidate have?

• Does the candidate have the equipment needed to work effectively with you (e.g., e-mail, fax, computer compatibility, software)?

Evaluating the Candidate

• Review writing samples.

• Check references.

• Consider success rate.

Contract and Fee Guidelines

Appropriate fees:

• $30-$75 hourly

• $3,000-$5,000 flat rate for a major (e.g., federal) proposal

Inappropriate fees:

• Payment contingent on success

• Percentage of funds raised

Additional References

• Getting and Working with Consultants. Available online at www.mapnp.org/library/staffing/outsrcng/consult/consult.htm.

• Tips on Hiring a Grant Writer (May 1999). Available online at www.volunteersinhealthcare.org/ResTips/grntwrit.htm.