Grant Writing & Funding

Freelance grant writing comes with freedom—and a lot of moving parts. If you’re juggling multiple clients, deadlines, and reporting requirements, you need more than a spreadsheet. You need a system that saves time without adding complexity.Join us for this live panel replay where fellow freelance grant professionals share how they use Grant Management Made Easy to stay organized, meet deadlines, and keep clients happy—without burning out.You’ll hear directly from 4 amazing grant professionals staff who made the switch from overwhelm to organized—and are now saving hours each week.Visit www.grantwritingandfunding.com/gems to book a free demo and save 10%. Thank you to our sponsor GEMS for lovingly sponsoring this podcast episode! Do you want a FREE Master Grant Template? Grab our FREE 5-Part Private Podcast, where you get1) a private podcast episode for 5 days explaining how to write our Academy Master Grant2) an editable Master Grant Template3) a Master Grant WorkbookJust visit https://www.grantwritingandfund

Ever wondered what grant writing actually is and how you can start even without a degree, certification, or years of experience?In this video, Holly Rustick, CEO of Freelance Grant Writer Academy and Grant Professional Mentorship, breaks down grant writing in its simplest form: connecting mission and money.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 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!Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickCoaches new and experienced grant writers to earn high 5-6 figure incomes writing grants from home!Get Freelance Grant Writing Spicy Tips when you Join the week

Discover how you can earn significantly more and work less as a freelance grant writer compared to a full-time nonprofit job. Join Holly Rustic, owner of the Freelance Grant Writer Academy, as she breaks down the math, showing you how freelancing can result in higher earnings and more free time. Learn about potential incomes, expenses, and the benefits of freelancing, including greater flexibility and vacations. Explore additional resources to improve your grant writing skills, set up your business, and transition to a fulfilling freelance career.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 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, p

Discover how nonprofits can build impactful, long-term partnerships with corporations to increase funding, expand reach, and boost community impact. In this inspiring conversation, Holly Rustick from Grant Writing & Funding interviews Cynthia Currence author of Beyond Checks and Halos to share real-world strategies for creating win-win collaborations between nonprofits and for-profits.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 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!Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickCoaches new and experienced grant writers to earn high 5-6 figure incomes wr

The Doors are Now Open to the Grant Professional Mentorship for the Final time in 2025. Be sure to join the 12-Month Group Mastermind to Double Your Monthly Revenue as a Grant Writer with Streamlined Systems, a Part-Time Lean Team, and a Scaling Offer - Without Burning Out. Go to www.grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship. Doors Close Sunday, August 17th at 11:59 pm EST. Limited Seats Available.In this conversation, Holly Rustick interviews Sophie Olivier, the CEO and founder of Flourish Fundraising, who shares her journey in grant writing and fundraising from South Africa. Sophie discusses the unique challenges and opportunities in the South African nonprofit sector, the importance of understanding different grant types, and the value of templates and adaptability in grant writing. She emphasizes the significance of grant readiness, building client relationships, and the impact of global changes on local funding. Sophie also reflects on her growth as a business owner, the importance of community support, and

The Doors are Now Open to the Grant Professional Mentorship for the Final time in 2025. Be sure to join the 12-Month Group Mastermind to Double Your Monthly Revenue as a Grant Writer with Streamlined Systems, a Part-Time Lean Team, and a Scaling Offer - Without Burning Out. Go to www.grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship. Doors Close Sunday, August 17th at 11:59 pm EST. Limited Seats Available.Learn about my super power - turning a no into a yes: from winning grants, to securing nonprofit clients, to having changemakers join the Grant Professional Mentorship. See this in action, as not knowing how to do this is hurting your grant wins and holding you back from getting clients.

The Doors are Now Open to the Grant Professional Mentorship for the Final time in 2025. Be sure to join the 12-Month Group Mastermind to Double Your Monthly Revenue as a Grant Writer with Streamlined Systems, a Part-Time Lean Team, and a Scaling Offer - Without Burning Out. Go to www.grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship. Doors Close Sunday, August 17th at 11:59 pm EST. Limited Seats Available.The word for grant writers to embrace in 2025 is current. This can be used in many ways, but one is that of following a current in a river. There might be rocks in the way, and sometimes it feels like a strong current, but remembering there is flow and change is vital. And currents aren't a bad thing, either! We need them so the waters aren't stagnant. Tune in today to be inspired by everything grant consulting in today's new world of grant writing.

The Doors are Now Open to the Grant Professional Mentorship for the Final time in 2025. Be sure to join the 12-Month Group Mastermind to Double Your Monthly Revenue as a Grant Writer with Streamlined Systems, a Part-Time Lean Team, and a Scaling Offer - Without Burning Out. Go to www.grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship. Doors Close Sunday, August 17th at 11:59 pm EST. Limited Seats Available.In this inspiring episode, Holly Rustick sits down with Kia Chatmon, founder of Heart for the Community Consulting, to explore her journey from working in the nonprofit sector to building a thriving grant writing and consulting business.Kia opens up about the diverse cause areas she serves—ranging from health and education to youth development—and shares the exact systems she’s put in place to streamline operations, improve client onboarding, and free up her time.From the power of networking and word-of-mouth referrals to the game-changing decision to hire a virtual assistant, Kia reveals how intentional delegation and

The Doors are Now Open to the Grant Professional Mentorship for the Final time in 2025. Be sure to join the 12-Month Group Mastermind to Double Your Monthly Revenue as a Grant Writer with Streamlined Systems, a Part-Time Lean Team, and a Scaling Offer - Without Burning Out. Go to www.grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship. Doors Close Sunday, August 17th at 11:59 pm EST. Limited Seats Available.In this inspiring conversation, Holly Rustick sits down with Dr. Ginny Blankenship, founder of Lightmaker Grants and Strategy, to explore her unexpected path into grant writing and how she built a thriving business from the ground up. Ginny opens up about the challenges and opportunities in today’s grant landscape, the power of community and mentorship, and the lessons she’s learned about growing strategically while staying true to her mission.Whether you’re just starting your grant writing journey or looking to scale your consulting business, this episode is packed with actionable advice, real-world strategies, and upl

The Doors are Now Open to the Grant Professional Mentorship for the Final time in 2025. Be sure to join the 12-Month Group Mastermind to Double Your Monthly Revenue as a Grant Writer with Streamlined Systems, a Part-Time Lean Team, and a Scaling Offer - Without Burning Out. Go to www.grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship. Doors Close Sunday, August 17th at 11:59 pm EST. Limited Seats Available.Is grant writing still a viable business in 2025? YES—and here’s the proof. In this episode of the Grant Writing & Funding podcast, Holly Rustick breaks down what’s happening in the U.S. federal grant landscape in 2025 and how freelance grant writers are still building thriving, high-income businesses even during times of funding uncertainty. 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

The Doors are Now Open to the Grant Professional Mentorship for the Final time in 2025. Be sure to join the 12-Month Group Mastermind to Double Your Monthly Revenue as a Grant Writer with Streamlined Systems, a Part-Time Lean Team, and a Scaling Offer - Without Burning Out. Go to www.grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship. Doors Close Sunday, August 17th at 11:59 pm EST. Limited Seats Available.In this bonus episode, Holly Rustick interviews Lydia Vollmann, founder of Grant Our Community, discussing her transition from federal grants to for-profit opportunities, the integration of AI into her work, and the decision to move to Germany.Lydia shares insights on environmental justice, the importance of mentorship, and her recent move to Germany, highlighting the flexibility and independence her career has afforded her. The conversation emphasizes the value of networking and collaboration within the grant writing community.TakeawaysLydia has over 18 years of experience in federal grant writing.She transitioned to f

The Doors are Now Open to the Grant Professional Mentorship for the Final time in 2025. Be sure to join the 12-Month Group Mastermind to Double Your Monthly Revenue as a Grant Writer with Streamlined Systems, a Part-Time Lean Team, and a Scaling Offer - Without Burning Out. Go to www.grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship. Doors Close Sunday, August 17th at 11:59 pm EST. Limited Seats Available.Tune into the Replay Training: "Work Smarter, Not Harder: How to Hire Help and Streamline Your Grant Writing Business in 2025."

The Doors are Now Open to the Grant Professional Mentorship for the Final time in 2025. Be sure to join the 12-Month Group Mastermind to Double Your Monthly Revenue as a Grant Writer with Streamlined Systems, a Part-Time Lean Team, and a Scaling Offer - Without Burning Out. Go to www.grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship. Doors Close Sunday, August 17th at 11:59 pm EST. Limited Seats Available.In this conversation, Holly Rustick interviews Courtney Oliphant, CEO and founder of Coastal Nonprofit Consulting. Courtney shares her journey from working at a performing arts small nonprofit to starting her own consulting business. She discusses how she added services (and hired her husband full-time and her mom) to help performing arts nonprofits and organizations impacted by 2025 grant changes, the importance of being inside the Grant Professional Mentorship when hiring help, and how her business has evolved to be a grant and funding agency. Takeaways:Courtney's journey began in the nonprofit sector, leading her to

The Doors are Now Open to the Grant Professional Mentorship for the Final time in 2025. Be sure to join the 12-Month Group Mastermind to Double Your Monthly Revenue as a Grant Writer with Streamlined Systems, a Part-Time Lean Team, and a Scaling Offer - Without Burning Out. Go to www.grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship. Doors Close Sunday, August 17th at 11:59 pm EST. Limited Seats Available.In this episode, we delve into the crucial lessons learned from spending over $97,403 on hiring freelancers and agencies for a grant writing business. Discover the importance of developing the right hiring mindset, knowing which roles to hire for and when, setting clear job descriptions, and using test projects to find the best candidates. Join us for actionable tips and insights to enhance your hiring process and drive your business forward.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

Join the Free Training on August 5th, 2025 "Work Smarter, Not Harder: How to Hire Help and Streamline Your Grant Writing Business in 2025" by clicking www.grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship-webinarIn this episode of the Grant Writing and Funding podcast, host Holly Rustic shares proven strategies to help freelance grant writers find and secure clients. Holly discusses the importance of short-term, medium-term, and long-term lead generation methods, including leveraging personal and professional networks, social media, and hosting training events. She also provides insights into the benefits of creating a newsletter, investing in ads, and using SEO to scale up your grant writing business. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow your business, this episode offers valuable tips to help you succeed.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?

Join the Free Training on August 5th, 2025 "Work Smarter, Not Harder: How to Hire Help and Streamline Your Grant Writing Business in 2025" by clicking www.grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship-webinarHolly shares her expertise in grant writing and nonprofit sales strategies to help freelance grant writers create stable incomes and flexible schedules. Holly discusses the challenges of pricing grant writing services accurately and introduces the three primary pricing models: hourly, retainer, and packaging. She emphasizes the importance of value-based pricing and offers steps to determine fair pricing.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 find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s sho

In this episode Holly delves into the various pricing models for freelance grant writers, emphasizing the importance of tracking time to accurately estimate pricing. She discusses the drawbacks of charging on commission and explains why it is against best practices. Holly presents three core pricing models: hourly, package, and retainer, outlining the pros and cons of each. She shares tips on setting up effective retainer agreements for consistent cash flow and highlights the importance of valuing one's services. This episode is a comprehensive guide for grant writers looking to optimize their pricing strategies.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 find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen t

Explore how cause-driven giving, advocacy, and innovation are reshaping nonprofits in 2025 and beyond. Tune in to listen to Micheal Thatcher from Charity Navigator.In this conversation, Holly Rustick speaks with Michael Thatcher, CEO of Charity Navigator, about the evolving landscape of nonprofit evaluation and philanthropy. They discuss the launch of new funds, trends in giving, and the importance of advocacy in the nonprofit sector. Michael shares insights on how giving patterns are changing, particularly among younger generations, and the impact of recent legislative changes on nonprofits. The conversation emphasizes the need for community engagement and the critical role of nonprofits in addressing societal needs.Holly and Michael also discuss how to work with Charity Navigator for developing a free will and how to create a legacy with your assets to nonprofits. Connect with Michael Thatcher:Charity Navigatormthatcher@charitynavigator.orgTune in today to listen to this podcast.To learn more about the podc

Navigating political divides in fundraising—learn how connection, storytelling, and strategy can drive nonprofit success.In this conversation, Holly Rustick and Kamy Akhavan discuss the intersection of politics and fundraising, emphasizing the importance of human connection in nonprofit work. They explore how social division impacts community engagement and fundraising efforts, while also highlighting opportunities that arise from chaos. The discussion underscores the need for emotional storytelling and relationship building in the nonprofit sector, particularly in grant writing and fundraising strategies.TakeawaysPolitics today influences fundraising efforts significantlyThe shrinking public square leads to increased isolationConversations are essential for fostering change and understandingBuilding trust is crucial for effective communication in nonprofitsNetworking should be approached with genuine curiosityCreating relationships takes time but is essential for long-term successConnect with Kamy Akhavan:Li

Go behind the scenes with Global Development Solutions and their 2024 Freelance Grant Writer Pricing Survey!Rachel Waterman and her team have done a 3rd annual Pricing Report! We love everything about this!Find out what freelance grant writers are pricing their grant writing surveys.Connect with Rachel Waterman:Global Development Solutions WebsiteLinkedInGrant Easy Management SoftwareTune 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 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! Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickCoaches new and experienced grant writers to earn high 5-6 figure incomes writ