We Need to Talk About Headings

[Photo by Israyosoy S. on Pexels.com] Let’s talk about headings — specifically for applicants writing complex narrative proposals, like those for tri-agency competitions. I’ve seen enough wild heading inconsistencies in recent months that I’m bumping my planned topic to address this first. 🫣 Headings can be a fun puzzle to untangle when I’m editing aContinue reading "We Need to Talk About Headings"

How Long Does It Take to Write a Grant? (Hint: Longer Than You Want)

Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Pexels.com If you think hiring a grant writer means handing off a brief and getting a submission-ready application two days later, you’re not alone — but you’re likely setting yourself up for disappointment. Competitive grant applications aren't successfully built on all-nighters. Writing a compelling grant is a strategic, multi-phase initiativeContinue reading "How Long Does It Take to Write a Grant? (Hint: Longer Than You Want)"

My Grant Application Was Unsuccessful… Now What?

Photo by Cup of Couple on Pexels.com You put in the hours, hit the deadline, and crossed your fingers. Months later, you get the disappointing news: your grant application was unsuccessful. Though no one wants this outcome, it’s reality for many. First of all, it’s perfectly okay to feel frustrated and disappointed—but don’t let thoseContinue reading "My Grant Application Was Unsuccessful… Now What?"

Equitable and Inclusive Language in Grant Writing

Photo by Brett Jordan on Pexels.com The words we choose in grant proposals describe a project, but they also signal whose knowledge counts and who is sitting at the table. When you write proposals for research and programs, language is never neutral. Many of my clients work on community-based research, so I’m keenly aware ofContinue reading "Equitable and Inclusive Language in Grant Writing"

Graphics and Grants: Using Visuals to Strengthen Your Proposal

Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com We live in an era of visuals (emojis, videos, and memes prevail). This applies to the competitive landscape of grant applications. Using visuals in your grant proposal can be an effective way to communicate information to your reviewer. Visuals can help convey complex ideas into clear, easy toContinue reading "Graphics and Grants: Using Visuals to Strengthen Your Proposal"

Understanding Grant Budgets

Photo by maitree rimthong on Pexels.com Budgets. Just the word can strike fear in any grant applicant. But they don’t need to be scary! Whether you’re applying to government, corporate, or foundation grants, the following principles will apply; resources and instructions will differ. A grant budget is critical to demonstrate feasibility. It outlines all anticipatedContinue reading "Understanding Grant Budgets"

So You Think You Can Grant(s): Working With a Grant Writer

A slightly cheeky title for a very practical conversation. So long as it earns one knowing chuckle, I’ll be satisfied 😀 Many clients are new to working with a grant writer and bring diverse expectations to our collaboration. Some need support only on specific sections or attachments (e.g., knowledge mobilization plans, budgets and justifications) whileContinue reading "So You Think You Can Grant(s): Working With a Grant Writer"

Grant Proposal Narrative and Structure

Let’s talk about how to develop a compelling narrative for your grant proposal.  Ultimately, you want to tell a story. We tend to view storytelling through the lens of character and plot, a perspective that can feel elusive when your work is more about processes and outcomes than individual stories. But think of this narrativeContinue reading "Grant Proposal Narrative and Structure"

How to Format a Winning Grant Proposal

We’ve covered the core components of a proposal. Now, let’s discuss how to format your proposal so it makes a great first impression.  Have you ever opened a document that feels like just one big wall of text? I’ve never really felt excited about digging into that kind of material, and I bet your reviewersContinue reading "How to Format a Winning Grant Proposal"