Would it surprise you to know that 60% of members in The Global Grant Writers Collective had never touched a grant before joining our program? Even more amazing, members have won over $627 million in funding. Yep, that's right! Many of our now-successful grant consultants started off with zero experience in grant writing. Yet, through dedication, creativity, and a little bit of magic, they’ve transformed themselves into grant-writing powerhouses, earning hundreds of thousands in revenue for their superpowers.
We've seen firsthand what makes some people thrive in this field while others struggle and eventually decide it’s not for them. After coaching thousands to become grant writers and collecting insights from our members, we’ve discovered a few key traits that set stellar grant writers apart from the rest.
Spoiler alert: You don’t need to be a J.K. Rowling-level writer or have a deep knowledge of nonprofits to succeed. Instead, you need a few key qualities to jump into grant writing and crush it like candy! Let's dive into the seven superpowers that can turn you into a grant-writing unicorn.
1. You Have Some Skills in Your Professional Toolbox
It’s easy to overlook the professional superpowers you’ve gathered over the years, especially if you’ve spent time away from the traditional workforce. Stay-at-home moms, we see you! Whether you've been in a boardroom or a playroom, those skills are still tucked away inside you, waiting for the right moment to shine. And guess what? That moment could be now!
Grant writing isn’t just about putting words on paper; it’s about drawing from a diverse skill set. Think about it: you’ve probably honed some incredible skills through your career, hobbies, or even volunteer work.
Here are a few examples:
- Research: You’re a pro at diving deep into any topic and finding the information you need.
- Writing: You can craft a narrative that’s engaging, clear, and persuasive.
- Editing: You have an eagle eye for detail and can polish any document until it gleams.
- Critical Thinking: You can analyze complex problems and come up with smart solutions.
- Creative Thinking: You’re able to think outside the box and bring fresh ideas to the table.
- Community Organization: You know how to rally people around a cause and get things done.
- Project Management: You can juggle multiple tasks, timelines, and people without breaking a sweat.
- Problem-Solving: When a challenge arises, you face it head-on and figure out how to overcome it.
- Problem-Spotting: You can identify potential issues before they become full-blown problems.
- Planning: You can map out a step-by-step plan to achieve your goals.
- Budgeting: You know how to manage money and make the most of limited resources.
- Administration: You’re organized, efficient, and can handle all the nitty-gritty details that keep things running smoothly.
You don’t need to have all of these skills, but if you recognize a few of them in yourself, then
congratulations—you’ve got what it takes to be a potential grant-writing unicorn! And remember, there’s
always
room to learn new skills and sharpen old ones as you go.
2. You Jive Better With the Diversity in Project-Based Work
If you thrive on variety and love diving into new topics, grant writing might just be your jam. One of the coolest things about this field is that you get to learn about a wide range of issues, from environmental conservation to the arts, healthcare to history, and agriculture to social justice. Every project is different, and no two days are the same.
As you explore different fields, you might discover a passion for a particular cause and choose to specialize in that area. But even if you stick to one niche, the work will never feel monotonous. Grant writing keeps you on your toes, constantly challenging you to learn, grow, and adapt.
So, if you’re the type who loves variety and craves the excitement of exploring new topics, grant writing could be a perfect fit for you. After all, who wouldn’t want a job that keeps you updated on happenings in different fields?
3. You Get Your Projects Done Even When They’re Challenging
Let’s be real: grant writing isn’t always a walk in the park. There will be times when the deadlines are tight, the requirements are complex, and the stakes are high. But here’s the thing—those challenges are what make the victories so sweet.
Around here, we call ourselves Grant Writing Unicorns because we tackle projects that seem bigger than our capabilities. Like mythical creatures, we persevere through adversity and come out stronger on the other side.
Rejection is part of the process, but it doesn’t define us. We learn from it, grow from it, and keep moving forward. If you’re someone who doesn’t back down when things get tough, who keeps pushing until the job is done, then grant writing is definitely in your wheelhouse. You’ve got the grit, determination, and resilience to succeed.
4. You’re Motivated by Fulfilling and Financially Rewarding Work
Not every career allows you to wake up each day knowing you’re making a real difference in the world, but grant writing does! Imagine this: you’ve just helped an organization secure thousands of dollars in funding. That money could be going towards building a new community center, funding a life-saving research project, or providing meals for those in need. Your work isn’t just about words on paper; it’s about cultural and societal change. You’re working alongside passionate changemakers, and together, you’re making the world a better place.
But let’s not forget the financial rewards! While the fulfillment of helping others is priceless, grant writing can also be quite lucrative. As you build your skills and reputation, you’ll find that this career path offers a handsome return on your investment of time and effort. You get to do work that feeds your soul and your bank account—how’s that for a win-win? Check out this resource to explore your chances as a grant writer.
5. You Prioritize Your Self-Care
Grant writing can be intense. It requires focus, creativity, and a lot of brainpower. That’s why self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. Unfortunately, in traditional jobs, self-care often takes a back seat. You might find yourself stuck in a soul-sucking routine where taking a mid-week break requires approval from a boss.
Not exactly ideal, right?
With grant writing, you’re in control of your schedule. You have the flexibility to hit pause when you need it, without the guilt. Want to take a yoga class in the middle of the day? Go for it! Feel like spending an afternoon reading, traveling, or simply enjoying some quiet time with your family? Do it! The beauty of this career is that it allows you to prioritize your well-being while still getting the job done.
If freedom and flexibility are important to you, grant writing could be your ticket to a more balanced life. You get to work hard, make an impact, and still have time for the things that matter most to you. Because, let’s be real—self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential.
6. You’d Rather Work From Home Than Be Locked Up in a 9-5
Picture this: it’s a beautiful morning, and instead of rushing out the door to beat the traffic, you’re sipping your coffee in the comfort of your own home. Maybe you’re working from your cozy bedroom, or perhaps you’ve set up shop in a local coffee shop. Wherever you are, you’re in your element—productive, comfortable, and free from the constraints of a traditional 9-5 office job.
Studies show that a good work environment can boost your productivity, and for many, that means ditching the cubicle and embracing the freedom to work from wherever feels best. If the idea of clocking into a rigid schedule five days a week makes you cringe, grant writing offers a refreshing alternative. You get to design your workday around your life, not the other way around. Whether you’re a night owl or an early bird, a homebody or a wanderer, grant writing gives you the flexibility to work in a way that suits you.
So, if you’re ready to break free from the traditional office grind and embrace a more flexible lifestyle, grant writing might just be your perfect match.
7. You Believe You’re Capable of Doing Anything You Set Your Mind To
Let’s talk about mindset! You’ve got the skills, the drive, and the desire to make an impact, but do you believe you can do it? One of the biggest predictors of success in grant writing—or any field, really—is your mindset. We’ve seen that those who succeed aren’t necessarily the ones who know the most from the start; they’re the ones who believe in their ability to learn, grow, and adapt. The ones who recognize they can overcome imposter syndrome.
Grant writing is a journey, and like any journey, it’s going to have its challenges. There will be moments when you’re out of your comfort zone, and the temptation to throw in the towel might cross your mind. But here’s the thing—growth happens when you push through those tough moments. The real fun and fulfillment come from expanding into the next best version of yourself.
We’ve found that successful grant writers have a growth mindset. They understand that they aren’t limited by their current abilities. Instead, they see every challenge as an opportunity to learn and develop new skills. If you believe that you can do anything you set your mind to, then you have what it takes to thrive in this field.
Wrap up: Unleash Your Inner Grant Writing Unicorn
Grant writing isn’t just a job; it’s a unique blend of creativity, strategy, and passion. It’s a career where your professional skills, love for variety, and determination to overcome challenges come together to make a real impact. Whether you’re motivated by the fulfillment of helping worthy causes, the financial rewards, or the freedom to work on your own terms, grant writing offers a path that’s as rewarding as it is flexible.
So, if you’re intrigued by the idea of becoming a grant writer and think you might have the right mindset, we encourage you to explore this path further. Take our 16-question survey to see if grant writing is your next career path. Chances are, if you’ve made it this far, you’re already well on your way to becoming a grant-writing unicorn!
