Grant Writing for Nonprofits and Freelance Writers Course Syllabus

Overview (80-120 words) describing structure and time commitment.

Module 1: Introduction to Grant Writing

Estimated time: 0.3 hours

• Understand the grant landscape: foundations, corporate, and government funders
• Learn the stages of a grant cycle
• Master key grant writing terminology

Module 2: Prospect Research & Fundraiser Alignment

Estimated time: 0.8 hours

• Conduct prospect research to identify suitable funders
• Align funder priorities with nonprofit programs
• Match freelance writing niches to funding opportunities
• Evaluate funder guidelines and eligibility criteria

Module 3: Crafting the Case for Support

Estimated time: 1.0 hours

• Develop a compelling need statement using data and storytelling
• Define clear goals and SMART objectives
• Identify measurable outcomes to demonstrate impact

Module 4: Proposal Components & Structure

Estimated time: 1.3 hours

• Write attention-grabbing cover letters and executive summaries
• Structure the narrative: background, methods, and evaluation
• Incorporate sustainability planning into proposals
• Organize proposal sections for clarity and compliance

Module 5: Budget Development & Justification

Estimated time: 0.8 hours

• Build detailed line-item budgets
• Calculate indirect costs and overhead
• Write clear budget narratives to justify expenses

Module 6: Supporting Materials & Appendices

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Compile required organizational documents
• Include IRS status, board lists, and letters of support
• Format charts, tables, and infographics for clarity

Module 7: Submission Strategies & Grant Management

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Navigate common submission portals
• Avoid common application pitfalls
• Create a post-award reporting calendar
• Develop a stewardship plan for funder relationships

Module 8: Freelance Grant Writing Best Practices

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Set competitive rates for freelance grant writing
• Package services for nonprofit clients
• Market effectively on freelance platforms
• Manage client scope and expectations

Prerequisites

• Basic understanding of nonprofit organizations
• Familiarity with professional writing
• Access to internet and word processing tools

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Identify and target appropriate funding opportunities
• Craft persuasive grant proposals from start to finish
• Develop compliant budgets and budget narratives
• Compile complete applications with supporting documents
• Manage post-award reporting and donor relationships