How to Become a Grant Writer

Public projects, research initiatives and community outreach can all help shape society. However, while they may differ in methods, they share a common denominator: the need for funding. Without funding, even the best ideas can remain in limbo. While seeking funding sources is a vital part of this work, the process involves more than simply asking for money.

Skilled grant writers can be fundamental in helping an organization like nonprofits secure funding for a project. Grant writers’ ability to build persuasive cases justifying the need for funding and demonstrating how they can help bring about positive results makes them indispensable to organizations that rely on outside support.

For students seeking a unique way to apply a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts to a professional career, learning how to become a grant writer can be the first step toward a rewarding and satisfying path.

What Does a Grant Writer Do?

Before exploring how to become a grant writer, it’s important to understand what grant writers do and why their work can have such an impact.

Grant writers create funding proposals for potential donors. Using their research and writing skills, they formulate strategies to secure the capital needed to fund various projects and initiatives.

A key component of a grant writer’s duties involves research. Grant writers identify potential grant partners by exploring their giving history, organizational structure and the types of projects they typically fund. This helps match organizations with potential partners most likely to support their missions. After identifying promising sources, grant writers apply for grants, using their persuasive skills and knowledge of the givers’ history and principles to build an effective case.

Grant writers commonly work with nonprofits, government agencies, universities and healthcare organizations. Some work independently on a contractual or freelance basis, which may expose them to different work environments and fundraising agendas. Regardless of where they work, they’re dedicated to helping organizations secure the funding that makes their work possible.

With experience, successful grant writers can advance to higher-level administrative or leadership roles, such as nonprofit development director, nonprofit executive director or chief development officer (CDO).

Steps to Becoming a Grant Writer

Working as a grant writer is among the most rewarding, meaningful liberal arts careers individuals can pursue. While no single path to becoming a grant writer exists, the right combination of education and experience can help interested students succeed.

Education

Most grant writing degrees require at least a bachelor’s degree. Because the role relies heavily on writing and communication, common undergraduate degrees focus on liberal studies, writing, English, communication or journalism.

Experience and Training

Employers typically prefer grant writers to have at least two years of experience in the field. Prospective grant writers can gain experience in several ways, including securing internships and volunteering. Paid entry-level positions, such as grant writing assistant or grant coordinator, can also lead to positions with more responsibility.

Certification

While certification is typically not required, it can help demonstrate expertise to prospective employers. Common certifications include:

Grant Professional Certified: Issued by the Grant Professionals Certification Institute (GPCI), the GPC demonstrates broad knowledge of the grant process.
Certified Grant Writer: Issued by American Grant Writers’ Association Inc. (AGWA), the CGW credential focuses on strengthening skills and techniques in grant writing.

Grant Writer Salary and Job Outlook

Grant writers earned a median annual salary of approximately $57,400 as of October 2025, according to Payscale. Several factors can influence salary, including education, experience, employment sector and location.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) classifies grant writers under the broader category of social and community service managers. The BLS expects 6% job growth for this category between 2024 and 2034, double the growth projected for the labor market as a whole.

Use Your Degree to Make a Difference

Learning how to become a grant writer opens the door to a career that can have a real effect on your community. Helping organizations that share your beliefs secure funding for important projects and programs means playing a part in driving positive change.

The online Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies program from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University can equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in this critical role. The program focuses on career preparation rather than merely learning information and helps you develop the writing, research and communication skills that can form the foundation for a range of careers. Furthermore, as learning is 100% online, you can earn a degree while meeting your other obligations. The program fosters a collaborative learning environment, giving you the opportunity to make meaningful connections with others so you can share experiences and discuss program insights with those seeking similar opportunities.

Find out how North Carolina A&T can help you achieve great things.

Recommended Readings

5 Durable Skills for the Evolving Workplace

What Is a Liberal Studies Degree?

What Is a Criminal Justice Degree?

Sources:

American Grant Writers’ Association Inc., Certified Grant Writer Series

Grant Professionals Certification Institute, Why Certify

Grants.gov, A Short Summary of Federal Grants

Indeed, Development Director Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Indeed, Learn About Being a Grant Writer

Indeed, What Does a Chief Development Officer Do? (Including Skills)