Monday, February 23, 2015

The Benefits Of A Grant Writing Certificate Course

By Olivia Cross


Interest in grant writing certification has been increasing, a reflection of the increase in demand for this skill in the organizations. It is a very technical yet an essential skill in the non-profit organizations. These writers occupy big positions in organizations such as board members, fundraising specialists, or even the executive directors. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, you need some training to get to the next level and a grant writing certificate course can take you there.

There are increasing numbers of people who are now involved in grant writing as a freelancer or part time job opportunity. These are the professionals that have realized the big opportunities that come with the drafting of grants are now feeling the market gap. As freelancers, many organizations are forwarding the request and the business is booming.

The U. S Government grants are known as federal grants. In order to benefit from this, there are stringent rules that must be met. The proposals are similar in their basic parts. The areas that are the same include the order of the proposal, the terminology for each part, and the points that are allocated to each of the sections. The rules such as number of pages, double spacing, font, and 12 characters or more per inch are also the same for any proposal. Given the high rate of competition, you cannot afford to make a mistake.

The second alternative is the state government grants or municipal government grants. The state government funds come through the "flow-through" monies from the federal governments. With the state government, the competition is not too stiff. The proposal writing skills are still necessary though.

The private organizations, groups, or individuals usually fund their activities using foundations. Their money goes to charitable causes and research purpose. In order to get funding from Foundations or businesses, you have to contact their representatives and find out about the requirements.

A factor that stands out in any of the three alternatives is that there are requirements that must be met before the proposal is submitted. The basics of the grants are all the same, with few adjustments to meet the targeted requirements. As such, the NGOs are constantly seeking for services of experts to help them come up with the winning proposals for grants.

The training normally addresses topics like proposal concept development, research and development, skills in programmatic marketing, grant administration and even the emerging technology. In some cases, you may also be introduced to the skills necessary in lobbying the officers from the state or federal government.

The grant drafting is an art that you learn through formal training and experience. There is no degree in the same. The introductory parts can be covered in as little as three days. Currently, you can even take online classes and complete the course at your own pace. On completion, you can embrace the numerous opportunities that come with the skill.




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