103: Master Grant Writing with These Strategies from World-Renowned Grant Writing Expert, Holly Rustick

Send us a textI’m excited to have a repeat guest on the show today, Holly Rustick. Holly’s previous episode where she told us how to transition from your toxic nonprofit job to freelancing freedom is one of our most downloaded episodes, so I’m happy to have her back on to dig a bit deeper into her expertise of grant writing. In our conversation, we discuss the significant advantages of hiring freelance grant writers over staff members, and the strategic approach necessary for success in this field. Holly shares valuable insights into her program, which helps new and seasoned grant writers replace their full-time income through flexible freelance work. We also touch on the importance of having a master grant template, the benefits of specialized training, and how to create a high-impact grant strategy. And the episode wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t bring up the role of AI in grant writing. Holly’s expertise and passion for creating equity in the space made for an engaging and informative conversation that will leave you feeling more confident when you write your next grant (or hire it out)! Topics:The difference between hiring an on staff grant writer or a contracted grant writer and how Holly thinks in house grant writing needs to changeWhat it actually means to have a grant writing strategy and if you should hire a specialized or more of an agnostic grant writer The importance of creating a standard grant template, a main focus, and a timeline when you’re writing grants so that you can prioritize ROI and get your nonprofit executives on board Reimaging what it means to set your staff up to succeed and the need for continuing education in the nonprofit sector Remembering that the nonprofit grant writing process is not personal, how to overcome rejection, and focusing on the right criteria Holly’s thoughts on using ChatGPT and AI for grant writing and the magic of the master grant template (again) Trends that Holly is currently seeing in the grant space, what is working, what’s not working and where to focus in the next yearThe one piece of advice that Holly would give to the aspiring grant writer and what she’s currently celebrating in her own business  For a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Connect with Christina on Instagram: @splendidconsulting>> Click here to get the free guide on Save $50 with code PODCASTResources: Purpose & Profit Club™ Coaching Program [Get on the waitlist for bonuses] Instagram, LinkedIn, website Purpose and Profit Club weekly newsletter Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of small and medium-sized nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more at bloomerang.co. May contain affiliate links