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Techniques to Writing a Competitive Grant

February 23rd, 2022 @ 9:00 am - april 20th, 2022 @ 5:00 pm.

This online course provides an in-depth introduction to the grant writing process. Participants in this course learn grant writing strategies firsthand from researchers who have successfully applied for funding from a variety of sources.

The course covers:

• an overview of project management practices, techniques, and procedures applicable to grant writing
• the preliminary criteria being considered to apply for grant funding
• the components of a grant
• understanding the grant application process
• creating a clear and concise grant proposal
• understanding the peer review process

Register by February 9.

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Writing, including publication, is critical to conveying science, and is often an important indicator of success in a c/t research career. Depending on the document you are writing – a grant, proposal, article, or another format – there are a variety of styles and approaches to consider. Explore the resources below to learn to write effectively and publish across several  mediums.

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A to Z Grant Writing

This course provides students with the hands-on experience and knowledge they need to successfully begin the planning process for projects in need of grant funding. An approach to grantseeking begins with thinking about why the funding is needed and involving the grant applicant's stakeholders in the planning process.

Requirements

A to Z Grant Writing will take you through the planning process for documenting the need for funding in a Theory of Change Grant Project Planning Worksheet. Beginning with writing about what will be implemented (your vision for change and impact) when the project is funded, the worksheet begins to come to life. Exploring why funding is needed is the beginning of articulating the statement of need. You will learn how to document your projection of how, when funded, your project will initiate change. Once you've created the project's goals, the worksheet asks for inputs or resources (mirroring a logic model's format). Your thought processes and imagination will be tested in the implementation activities & timeline section. You'll also have a chance to develop outputs and outcomes for the planned project. Finally, you'll learn how to develop a project budget. Where does all of this lead? Every lesson is one step closer to having 100% of the information you'll need to write a highly competitive grant proposal. Additional features include six teachable moments videos and six choose your own adventure branching scenarios to fuel your creative thinking processes.

Lesson 1 - Grant Writer Roles

Lesson 2 - grant funding research, lesson 3 - grant writing planning process, lesson 4 - introduction to peer review and constructive feedback, lesson 5 - executive summary, lesson 6 - statement of need for funding, lesson 7 - benefit to the target population, lesson 8 - project goals and measurable objectives, lesson 9 - evidence-based solutions to address the need, lesson 10 - resources, lesson 11 - funding outcomes and evaluation, lesson 12 - developing a project budget.

Prerequisites:

There are no prerequisites to take this course.

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 10 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Microsoft Word or equivalent word processor (not included in enrollment).
• Adobe Acrobat Reader .
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.
• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

Dr. Beverly A. Browning

Dr. Beverly A. Browning is a grant writing consultant and visionary who uses thought leadership to work with nonprofit organizations struggling with the woes of revenue stream imbalances. She has been researching grant funding, grantmaking trends, and board-related barriers to nonprofit capacity building for over 40 years. Together she and her team have helped her clients win over $750 million in grant awards.

Dr. Browning is the founder and director of the Grant Writing Training Foundation and Bev Browning, LLC. She is the author of 44 grant writing publications, including six editions of Grant Writing for Dummies and the 6th edition of Nonprofit Kit for Dummies (to be published in 2021).

Dr. Browning holds graduate and post-graduate degrees in organizational development, public administration, and business administration. She is also a Certified Strategic Planning Facilitator (CSPF), has a McNellis Compression Planning Institute Facilitation Training distinction, and is an Approved Trainer for the Grant Professionals Association (GPA), the Certified Fund Raising Executive International (CFRE, and the Grant Professionals Certification Institute (GPCI).

Related Courses

Check Out Our Brand-New 20 Minute Training on How to Make Money as a Grant Writer

The 19 Best Online Grant Writing Classes for Every Learner

You know that you’re interested in learning more about grant writing and that online courses and classes can help. We love that! Welcome to the party!

Now, where do you go from there? Which courses are relevant for you and worth investing in?

Knowing where to begin can be tricky because the field is so diverse. Grant writing courses and certifications come in all shapes and sizes, and different options are best for different learners.

This blog post aims to give you a solid overview of the grant writing education options available online. We’ve gathered the top grant writing resources, reviewed them, and sorted them into these categories:

• Free grant writing classes and resources
• Best for grant writing freelancers
• Best for nonprofit professionals
• Best for federal grant seekers
• University-based grant writing programs

The Ultimate Resource for Grant Learners!

Learn Grant Writing has something for everyone

Quick Picks: The Absolute Best Grant Writing Classes

Maybe you’re in a hurry—we get it. Let’s cut to the chase. Here are our top recommendations for grant writing learners with different goals:

We’ll take a closer look at each of these options and more in the categories below. Think we missed a valuable program that should be included? Let us know.

Best Free Online Grant Writing Classes

Whether you’re just getting started, working on a budget, or aren’t ready to make a paid commitment to learning grant writing, there are tons of options available. These free grant writing resources can help:

1. Learn Grant Writing's Free Introductory Class

Our free grant writing class covers all the essentials and explains how you can build a career in grant writing without the fear of where you will find clients or feeling like a failure if your grant doesn’t win. We cover the top three mistakes that keep people stuck, how to get paid to learn grant writing, and strategy for pulling off a career transition.

Following that broad overview, you are then guided through our tried and tested seven steps to writing winning grant applications:

• Step 1: Prepare for success
• Step 2: Host kickoff meeting
• Step 3: Develop your budget (you’ll also get a free copy of our grant budget template!)
• Step 4: Preparing key attachments (including a resolution and letters of support)
• Step 5: Write your narrative
• Step 6: Persuasive writing
• Step 7: Submitting your application

This free resource is best for those interested in learning about grant writing without the burden of financial or time commitment. It’s for all of you who want to get your feet wet.

2. Coursera: Fundraising & Development Foundations

Coursera is home to a free intermediate-level course created by the University of California Davis. The course carries a fee if you wish to earn a course certificate, but you can audit all of the course content for free.

This four-module course provides an in-depth background on nonprofit fundraising and development, giving grant writers invaluable context for how grant funding fits into the bigger picture of running a nonprofit. While not all of the content is directly related to grant writing, it will help you learn:

• Nonprofit and fundraising lingo
• The nonprofit fundraising process
• How to develop a case for support (an essential skill for grant writers!)
• Current issues and trends in the fundraising world

This class is best for folks who already have a general understanding of grant writing and want to learn more about the nitty gritty, technical aspects of the nonprofit world.

3. Peak Proposals: The Basics of Finding & Applying for Grants

Getting Started: The Basics of Finding & Applying for Grants is a free course consisting of three modules. It covers how to find potential funders, an overview of writing a grant proposal, and the process of submitting a proposal. Each of the 17 lessons in the course contains an assignment to help students apply the lessons learned.

Peak Proposals is best for those wanting even more hands-on training without making a financial commitment.

4. MIT: Advanced Writing Seminar

MIT’s graduate-level Advanced Writing Seminar covers much more than grant writing, but you'll find lessons on grants plus tons of writing and presentation tips that can improve your general skills. There is no enrollment or registration fee for this self-paced course.

Note that while this seminar is useful for improving writing skills as a whole and includes a grant writing-specific lesson, it won’t be a thorough dive into the grant writing process.

But it’s still an extremely helpful course for those looking to sharpen their professional writing skills, which are (of course) essential for successful grant writing. The course materials and reading list provide interesting sources to guide your self-study of writing, including The Oxford Essential Guide to Writing by Thomas Kane and The Elements of Style by Strunk and White.

***P.S. If you read only one book about writing, make it The Elements of Style ! It’s a classic for a reason. This three-minute video highlights our favorite (and arguably the most valuable) takeaway from the book.

5. Almost Free Grant Writing Courses on Udemy

Udemy is an eLearning platform where experts create and sell courses on a wide variety of subjects. It offers dozens of grant writing courses on different aspects of the process. Options range from introductions to grant writing to more specialized classes on nonprofits and NIH grants.

While these courses aren’t free, they are relatively inexpensive and can help you bolster your skills in more specific areas. Course costs average around $80, but they frequently go on sale—keep an eye out for big discounts down to $15 or less!

Is Grant Writing For You?

If you are looking for a career change and interested in grant writing consulting, check out this training on how to get started. Build a flexible life you love!

Best Online Grant Writing Classes for Freelancers and Side-Hustlers

Tons of people are drawn to grant writing as a way to generate extra income, start a freelancing business, or make bigger career changes—and for good reason! Grant writing is a learnable, specialized skill that’s always in demand, and it helps nonprofit organizations make bigger impacts in their communities.

Here are some of our favorite resources for those interested in investing more time and energy into grant writing as a business:

1. The Global Grant Writers Collective from Learn Grant Writing

The Global Grant Writers Collective is a year-long membership that includes online instructional videos, community, certification, and coaching to teach you a step-by-step system for building a flexible career in grant writing. In addition to an ever-growing community and mentorship, there are live trainings offered twice a month.

The Collective is structured in seven phases:

• Phase 1: Get Started (learn how to get paid to learn + tons of freebies!)
• Phase 2: Find Grants (our tried and true grant research method)
• Phase 3: Write Grants (a step by step approach)

After Phase 3 (and some homework!), you’ll receive your certificate - yay! With your certificate and real-world experience, you can interview well for higher-paying, quality jobs. If you enjoyed the freelancing, we show you how to work for yourself and build a vibrant grant writing consulting business in the final two modules.

• Phase 4: Make Your First $15,000 (no need to set up a business yet)

After Phase 4, you can start thinking about your next career path: full-time freelance or new job. Either way, you have $15,000 worth of freelance expertise under your belt. It’s time to grow! You can take your portfolio to land a new job or scale your freelance practice to a $250,000 per year business.

• Phase 5: Growing to $50,000 (form your LLC)
• Phase 6: Growing to $100K-$250K Annually (join the 5% club and make 6 figures!)
• Phase 7: Advanced Grant Writing

Members of the Collective also have access to an entire community of fellow grant writers, coaching and mentorship, and bonus trainings. These include logic and evaluation models, resume writing, fiscal sponsorship, federal grant training, contracting & retainer pricing, and more!

Membership in the Collective costs $500 per month or $6,000 annually. Check out these reviews and member spotlights to see how our community has changed members’ lives and unlocked lucrative new careers!

This Collective was created for those looking for a career change and are interested in freelance grant writing or landing a new job—plus, it brings the added benefits of a vibrant community and steadfast peer support.

2. Holly Rustik’s Grant Writing & Funding Course

Grant Writing & Funding, founded by Holly Rustik, offers several grant writing courses:

• Grant Writing Master Course; and
• Freelance Grant Writing Master Course.

In 39 videos, the Grant Writing Master Course covers the basics of grants, finding grants, identifying needs and problems, developing a grant proposal, and building a budget. The course is self-paced and can be purchased for $697 or in six payments at $129 each. Included in the cost of this membership are sample grants and community engagement.

The Freelance Grant Writing Master Course is for folks who want to start a grant writing business but don’t know how to find clients, build a brand, and get started with marketing. The cost of this course is $997 or six installments of $183.20.

3. Resources from the American Grant Writers Association Review

The American Grant Writers Association (AGWA) is a common resource for people to consider when researching their first steps for a grant writing side business or career change.

However, it’s important to note that AGWA converted their live workshops into an online format without intentionally building it for online learning, which might negatively impact your experience with the program.

Sarah* approached the team at Learn Grant Writing after having an unpleasant and floundering experience with a grant writing course offered through AGWA. We’ve published the review she offered to write so you can have the best information possible when deciding where to learn about grant writing. Give it a read here.

Discover Grant Writing as a Career

If you’re interested in becoming a grant writing consultant, check out this free training on how you can pull off a meaningful career change.

Best Grant Writing Certifications & Courses for Nonprofit Professionals

In the nonprofit world, it’s super common for fundraisers and program staff to wear many hats. Maybe you’ve just been handed the grant writing hat for the first time and have no idea where to start—we’ve got you covered.

Here are our favorite online resources for nonprofit professionals to learn grant writing or sharpen their skills to help their organizations secure more funding:

1. The Global Grant Writers Collective

Yep, we serve nonprofit professionals as well. The Global Grant Writers Collective helps you become a confident grant writer with a peer-proven step-by-step system for writing winning grants. Never navigate a sticky situation alone again.

This self-study online course and community help you take the guesswork out of managing all the moving parts involved in writing winning grant applications. The Collective is structured into five seven phases:

• Phase 1: Get Ready (become irresistible to funders + tons of freebies!)
• Phase 3: Write Grants (a step-by-step approach)
• Phase 4: Career Paths (build your career for portfolio experience and income)
• Phase 5: Business Development (Bonuses)
• Phase 6: Continued Education (never stop learning!)

Access to the Collective and ongoing membership costs $500 per month or $6,000 annually. With it, you get the full library of training content and coaching, plus inclusion in a thriving community of fellow grant writers eager to share and learn from each other—no question goes unanswered!

Ed2Go offers a variety of courses on grant writing, from overview classes for beginners to more detailed, advanced options. Classes vary in hourly requirements and costs, but for most of the six-week, 24-class courses, the cost hovers around $150.

The majority of these courses are geared towards nonprofit professionals involved in grant writing.

3. University of Wisconsin: Introduction to Grant Writing

The University of Wisconsin Milwaukee offers an Introduction to Grant Writing course for $150. The course covers fundraising strategies and explores the six stages of grant writing. The stages include identifying a need for funding, researching grantmakers, relationship cultivation, the grant writing process, and appropriate follow-up after winning or losing a grant award.

This course is designed for those seeking to gain a basic understanding of nonprofit management.

4. Holly Rustik: Strategic Planning Master Course & Start-Up Academy

We’re throwing Holly Rustik’s courses on here again because she has two offerings specific to nonprofits. Grant Writing & Funding offers two courses focusing on grant writing in the nonprofit sector including:

• Nonprofit Strategic Planning Master Course; and
• Nonprofit Start-Up Academy.

The Nonprofit Strategic Planning Master Course is designed for both nonprofit leaders and freelance consultants. The course will help nonprofits get their fiscal and program health organized. You can buy this course for $697 or make six payments of $127 each.

The Nonprofit Start-Up Academy covers how to create a working board, outline a strategic plan, find funding streams, and cultivate branding and messaging. This self-paced course is priced at $297.

Free Grant Matrix Template

To stay organized, we recommend you put your grant findings in a matrix. This way you can systematically filter the top pursuits.

Best Grant Writing Classes for Federal Grant Seekers

Securing grants from federal agencies and funding bodies is its own unique beast to tackle. It’s highly competitive and draws on special sets of tactics and best practices (like using Freedom of Information Act inquiries ). Sounds tough, but rest assured it’s all learnable with the right support.

Here are our recommendations for grant writing courses and resources specifically designed to help you better compete for federal funding:

1. DH Leonard Consulting: Fast Track Learning to Write Federal Grants

DH Leonard Consulting & Grant Writing Services, LLC, offers a Federal Grant Writing Boot Camp . This training webcast, spread over four half-days, covers how to successfully apply for and secure federal grants. It’s taught by Diane Leonard GPC in conjunction with My Fed Trainer .

Early bird pricing is $495 while last-minute pricing is $795 while tickets last. This Boot Camp course is offered numerous times each year — click here for the schedule .

DH Leonard Consulting & Grant Writing Services frequently offers a range of other Federal Grant Writing Training courses throughout the year as listed on their course listing. Many of these courses cost around $87. Catch webinar replays of their all-time faves, Federal Grants 101: Securing Millions for Your Organization and Federal Grants 201: How to Feel Confident and Competitive as You Click Submit, for $60 for $50, respectively.

These resources are best for individuals interested in improving their federal grant writing skills by watching webinars.

2. Grant Professionals Association: Next Level Grant Training

Next Level Grant Training is live online training to help folks advance their grant careers. The 2024 Next Level Grant Training topics include federal grants, research prospecting, best practices for reporting, and more.

Next Level Grant Training features include:

• One monthly class for 12 months
• One-hour sessions including Q&A
• Online-archived class content for later reference; and
• A constant cohort of participants, led by Grant Professional Certified and GPA-approved trainers Cyndi MacKenzie and Scot Scala.

Each session focuses on reinforcing the GPA Code of Ethics and related GPC Competencies, along with providing participants the opportunity to earn up to 12 CEUs. This series is priced at $240 for members or $299 for non-members for the entire offering.

These sessions are best for those especially interested in the ethical ins and outs of grant writing, those seeking to earn credits, and those already in established grant writing careers.

Best University-Based Grant Writing Certifications

A handful of grant resources created by universities have already been mentioned in this list, but there are more where those came from! If you’re looking for more structured certificate programs and courses taught by professional educators, higher ed has a lot to offer.

Here our are top recommendations for grant writing classes and certification programs offered by universities:

1. University of Georgia

The University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education offers two grant writing courses: an introductory-level course called Fundamentals of Grant Writing I, and a higher-level course called Advanced Grant Proposal Writing. Each course provides 24 hours of instruction for a cost of $159.

2. University of South Carolina

University of South Carolina’s Grant Writing Certificate Program involves 30 hours of classes covering four courses: Introduction to Grant Writing, Needs Based Assessment, Intermediate Grant Writing, and Program Development and Evaluation.

Both online and classroom options are available for a fee of $1,322. The goal of this program is to prepare new and established professionals for the practical and conceptual aspects that are critical to the grant writing process.

3. Arizona State University

Arizona State University offers two levels of grant writing certificates : Grant Development—State and Foundation Proposal Certificate for $999 (early bird price) and Advanced Grant Development—Federal Proposal Certificate for $1,050 (early bird price).

Both courses are fast-paced and intensive for those ready to make a serious investment in their grant writing skills. The courses take seven weeks to complete, and students can expect to spend 12 to 15 hours a week on coursework.

4. University of Colorado at Colorado Springs

UCCS has an intensive credit-bearing certificate program, Graduate Certificate in Grant Writing, Management, and Program Evaluation. To apply for the program, students must hold a bachelor's degree.

Completion of the certificate requires a grade of B- or better in four courses: Evaluation, Grant Writing, Grant Management, and an elective. The certificate is designed for people interested in professional careers in or related to grant writing, grant management, and/or nonprofit program evaluation.

Non-degree, non-Colorado resident graduate students completing the required 12 hours of coursework can expect to pay roughly $9,700 plus a $60 application fee for an online UCCS certificate program. For Colorado residents, the fees are roughly $8,300.

5. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University offers an eight-week University Grant Writing Certification Program for $175. Available for students in the United States only, the class meets online for two months.

While this is an introduction to grant proposal writing, many students enroll for a review and refresher course. The areas of focus include title page, abstract, statement of need, goal, objectives, procedures, budget, qualifications, evaluation, sustainability, dissemination, sources cited, and appendix.

Choosing the Right Grant Writing Classes for Your Goals

There is a whole internet of opportunity for you to learn more about grant writing. We hope this list guided you through your search and gave you a clearer idea of the wide range of options available online today.

As you get started, please keep this one important takeaway in mind: A grant writing course will only serve you well if it's aligned with your goals and needs.

No matter your goal, whether it’s getting your feet wet, improving skills for your nonprofit, learning more about federal grants, or starting a business, the Global Grant Writers Collective is chock-full of support for any grant writer. With curriculum, coaching, mentorship, and community, the Collective is a one-stop shop for learning about grant writing and how to adjust your mindset to achieve your goals.

For more tips and tricks on grant funding and writing a proposal, be sure to check out our FREE Grant Writing Class . You can also contact us anytime with your questions—we’ll be happy to help!

But no matter your goals, we hope you keep learning more. Keep the ball rolling by checking out these additional resources from the Learn Grant Writing blog:

• Can I Make Money as a Grant Writer?
• How to Become a Freelance Grant Writer
• How to Write a Grant in 7 Easy Steps
• Project Management for Nonprofits and Grant Writers

Let's Kickstart Your Grant Writing Journey

Learn Grant Writing has something for everyone – all backgrounds, goals, and skill levels are welcome!

About the author...

Alexis Swenson serves as Unicorn Coach and Content Director for Learn Grant Writing. The product of small-town northwestern Minnesota, she is a self-declared “old soul” and grounded free spirit. She has secured over $2.7 million in grant funding in her career. Alexis writes to help people learn, laugh, and not be so hard on themselves.

Want To Learn More?

We made this video to answer your questions about how to build a career in grant writing without the fear of where you will find clients or the fear of failure. We cover the top three mistakes that keep people from making the leap from a soul-sucking job to something more meaningful.

Watch Video

Customized Training For You

Listen to the audiobook, take free grant writing class, free grant writing resources, take our career fit quiz, take our business diagnostic audit quiz.

Free Online Grant Writing Classes

Ready to learn how to write a winning nonprofit grant proposal choose your first course and learn where to find grants, how to become a grant writer, grant writing best practices, and so much more, explore some of our most popular courses on grant writing.

Get Grant Ready

Cornerstone ondemand foundation.

This short video covers the basics of preparing a grant application.

Acquiring Public Grants

Dare mighty things.

This guide details the keys to winning government grants.

Proposal Writing

Cornerstone ondemand foundation, learn how to write effective and persuasive grant proposals..

Earn a free certificate in grant writing!

Learn how to find the right grants for your nonprofit and write great grant proposals with this free, 2-hour online training. Eligible for CFRE Continuing Education Credits.

> Click here to learn more about this free grant writing certificate program 

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Home » Blog » Best Grant Writing Classes 2024

Best Grant Writing Classes 2024

TABLE OF CONTENTS

It is a difficult profession, and it’s not for everyone. But if you’re interested in pursuing it to further grow your organization or business, then the best thing for you to do is take a class on how to write grants.

Even if you are someone who wants to step into this career as a freelance writer, it’s a good idea to take the time and effort to learn how it works in order to become a great writer .

In order to be successful in this subject, you must have certain skillsets which people don’t usually need in other types of writing. 

This article highlights some of the top grant writing classes available in 2024 and ends with FAQs to address some of the common questions.

The Best Grant Writing Classes

There are quite a few online grant writer certifications worth taking a look at. In fact, you should enroll in them as soon as one clicks to you more than others. With the list below, we try to help you make the right choice by mentioning the price, duration, key takeaways, and more for each course. In this way, it might make it easier for you to decide which classes suit you the most.

1. Udemy – Grant Writing for Nonprofits and Freelance Writers

Talk about winning proposals, the art of writing, and the skill of persuasion, this course has got it all. It is specially designed for nonprofit organizations and freelance writers. If you are an NGO and looking to get your grant approved, this course is for you. Moreover, if you are a writer who wants to grow and learn new things, take this course to hone your skills. 

This class is for someone looking for a step-by-step guide on developing successful proposals that will please the government. Udemy has a history of offering discounts now and then. Normally, you can sign up and know what it takes to strive for a government grant for only $29.99, but if a promotional offer is on, the price drops to only a few $.

This course provides lessons that will help you develop successful proposals within the shortest time possible. On the whole, it includes guidance on developing an outline of tasks and objectives for your project as well as tips on how to submit your proposal.

Tim Whitney is the creator and tutor of this course. 

Key Takeaways

• Understand why proposals are crucial for getting grants.
• Learn how to write effective project summaries, narratives, and descriptions for your proposal.
• Add a new accomplishment to your career as a grant writer.
• Find out what’s necessary for a successful grant submission.
• Prepare a template that can be reused with some changes for future projects.

Duration : 2 hours

Price : $29.99 ($9.99 on promotional discounts)

Please enroll here .

2. A-Z Grant Writing – Harvard Community Education

This course is a high-potential place for students to learn skills for approval of grants. It provides learners with a comprehensive understanding of the grant process, which is an effective way to get funding for projects or programs that need financial support.

The wisdom of Dr. Beverly A. Browning works behind this course and takes you through the process of writing a grant proposal as well as how to get it funded.

The course is divided into two parts: writing and funding, with comprehensive lessons for each. The instructional materials include traditional lectures and multimedia presentations that will provide an interactive experience for learners who want more than just reading about grant writing processes. 

Dr. Browning takes an approach that is both theoretical and practical. Learners will learn the foundation, how to develop an idea for a proposal as well as receive tips on what is needed to write a successful application that has a high chance of being funded.

The course covers in detail: what grants are; how grant applications work; structuring your proposal; and, more.

Key takeaways

• Identify potential funders.
• Find out what’s necessary for a successful proposal and find out different ways to solicit proposals.
• Discover how to build partnerships with potential funders or donors.

It will teach the basic skills for grant writing that include understanding different types of funding and how to identify a fundraising opportunity. This Harvard Community Education course would be an excellent resource for those who want to improve their knowledge of grant applications, more so, write winning proposals. 

Duration : Six weeks and three months

Price : $115 and $100

Please go here to get yourself enrolled: ed2go

3. Writing Grant Proposals – Coursera

A destination famous for online grant writer certifications , Coursera offers a course for those who want to learn more about grant applications. It is a four-week, self-paced class that teaches the basics of writing better proposals and making them stand out from the crowd. 

With graded quizzes and assignments, it’s vital to stay on top of deadlines which makes it challenging if you have other commitments outside work. However, with its detailed feedback based on what type of funder or audience you’re targeting, students can be sure they will receive valuable advice in order to make changes accordingly.

You will be taught to find the strengths and weaknesses of your organization so you have a more realistic picture of what your organization can and can’t do. 

The classes are completely online without having to go to them in person. With an overall 4.5 out of 5 ratings, they are an incredible effort from the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.

What you will learn: 

•  How to find and select financiers. 
• How to locate and assess grants. 
• The types of organizations that do not qualify for grants but still need funding. 
• How to write an effective proposal from scratch or use the templates provided by the instructors as training material. 
• Increase the efficiency of your research. 
• How to find and locate grants that are looking for organizations like yours. 

Duration : Close to 18 hours to complete

Price : $49

Please visit Coursera for applying and enrolling.

4. Online Classes for Professional Grant Writers – Harvard Extension School

Another course that is right up there with the finest grant writing courses in the year 2024. Though the registration for the last batch was closed in Aug 2020, you can always register in the new and upcoming classes to get a grip on the subject.

Benefits: This certificate program is designed for those who need to learn how to write grants in order to advance their careers and their organizations. It offers assistance with applying for foundations that may be interested in your cause or project as well as help in applying for local, state, and federal grants. If you need to grow in grant proposal writing, then this course is for you.

It is one of the best courses to date from none other than Harvard, an institute that has proved itself time and again. It includes workshops, classes, coaching sessions as well as access to the Harvard knowledge center.

What you’ll learn:

• How to develop a strategy for finding and accessing funding sources.
• The language of grants, including the various types of funding agencies.
• How to write budget-friendly grants that are high quality? You will also be learning how to use different formats such as short proposals, long prose, one-page letters, and more.
• Each week you’ll have coaching sessions that help with your progress as well as workshops where you can learn from professors in person. This course is perfect for beginners, but it’s not just limited to them! Anyone who wants an introduction or refresher may benefit from this class too. 
• Why do I recommend Harvard? Of all the courses out there designed specifically for grants or otherwise, this one offers the most comprehensive and thorough introduction to the subject.

Duration : On-Demand

Price : $2900

To learn more about the program, please visit Harvard .

5. Fundamentals of Grant Writing – University of Georgia

This course by the University of Georgia is in partnership with the Center for Continuing Education and Education to Go. It gives you a broad introduction to the fundraising world and provides insights into how to write successful proposals.

The course is divided into two sections: Introduction, which covers everything from what makes an effective proposal through its various stages of production, to be able to identify communities who would be a good fit for the program. The second section covers how to write specific proposals in detail and discusses different approaches that writers should consider when writing such documents.

The course is delivered online, with a duration of 24 hours, allowing you to tap into the content when it is convenient for you.

Moreover, it provides insights into successful proposals based on real-life experiences of the instructor, someone who has been in the field for many years. 

• The fundamentals of writing for grant awards.
• A more in-depth look at the process from drafting to asking for feedback 
• How to write a good document that is both well written and successful.

There are many courses out there, but what makes this one different? The focus on real-life examples and insights into how to craft winning proposals will give you the edge over your competitors, particularly as deadlines loom close.

It also offers plenty of opportunities for Q&A sessions with the instructor. You’ll find these online classes invaluable if you’re looking to take your career path seriously! What’s even better is that they come at a reasonable price point.

Duration : 24 hours

Price : $159

To register yourself in this course, please go to the University of Georgia .

6. Professional Certificate in Grant Writing – San Diego State University

This certificate is relevant within a state full of nonprofits like food banks, animal shelters, and other social service organizations that are always in need of funding.

Due to increasing competition for getting grant funding, this certificate from SDSU plays the role of a rescuer. 

The course includes the following areas: 

• Grant Funding for NGOs 

• Grant Management Strategies in Support of Community-Based Programs and Services 

• Proposals: Beyond Project Design to Program Quality, Efficiency, and Effectiveness

Note : It is not for people who are trying to land grants for their research or business. 

To pursue this course, the applicant must have some background in academic writing because it is focused on writing skills and not just grant research.

It includes an opportunity to explore real-world examples of organizations that are doing great work in communities across the country through case studies and interactive presentations by experts from a variety of nonprofit sectors.

Through extensive interaction with faculty members who have years of experience as practitioners, you get to know what’s it like to be in the middle of the grant approval process.

Duration : 10 weeks

Price : $898

While the classes are online, you can find more about the program or register via San Diego State University.

Here, you’ll know some of the frequently asked questions related to this field. Government grants are funds the government is supposed to release, but for that to happen, you have to be persuasive enough to grab their attention.

What is grant writing? 

It is a process of soliciting funds from donors. Due to the growing scarcity of government funds, it is becoming a necessary activity for many organizations. The need for writers to be more skilled in the art of grant acquisition is on the rise. Certified grant writers who are properly trained will not only be able to secure more funding for their organizations, but they’ll know why their organization deserves the grant in the first place. 

There are usually no prerequisites required for these classes; however, one has to have the passion to write and is ready to persuade the person on the other side.

What should I consider before writing a proposal for funds? 

In addition to having excellent content, these include: who will be reading them (namely funders); what’s included; how much money you’re asking for; why what you want done matters today; an anticipated timeline along with milestones or deadlines. As an experienced grant writer, you won’t need to put so much effort into it.

Is it worth becoming a certified grant writer?

They may or may not be worth it for your organization depending on the type of grants you are looking for. For instance, if you are looking for grants in a certain sector of the economy, then it is worth taking these classes.

However, if your focus is on finding and applying for grants that serve one specific disadvantaged population or community (say young women survivors of violence), then you may not learn much from general-purpose grant resources because they won’t go deep enough on the subject. 

How much does it cost to take a grant proposal certification? 

A typical grant writing program may cost $100 to a couple of thousands, so the charges vary. Some are free, while others have sliding scale tuition based on income – so you can make an informed decision about what is best for your situation and budget. Besides, this article helps you make intelligent decisions.

Final Words

While grants may seem like just a way to boost your ego, they are vehicles for positive change. This is why it’s of significance that you be an excellent writer, not only to make yourself look good but also tangibly improve people’s lives.

If you are looking for an affordable institute coupled with online grant writing classes, this article is a great place to start. What are your thoughts?

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3 Grant Writing Courses You Take Online

Grant writing is an essential skill to ensure financial support for projects and campaigns of nonprofit organizations. Grant writing professionals master the art of communicating with government agencies, trusts or foundations, who award grants to human rights organizations, non-profits and charities. Online courses are an excellent way to learn how to create compelling and effective grant proposals. We have compiled a list of 3 top-rated grant-writing courses you can take online.

Fundraising and Development Specialization (University of California, Santa Cruz)

This fundraising specialization consists of four courses you can audit for free. The courses included are: Fundraising and Development Foundations , Annual Campaigns , Planned Giving and Major Gifts , and are offered by the University of California, Santa Cruz. In the first course of this specialization you will learn how to develop a case for support, identify and assess prospective donors, and match a donor’s interests with your organization’s mission. You will also explore career opportunities in this field and discuss some of the issues fundraising managers are facing today.

In the second course you will learn how to write a direct mail appeal, craft an impactful email appeal, and develop a script for phone solicitation. The third course in this specialization is focused on effective proposal writing, making a successful ask and on-going donor stewardship. You will also hone your fundamental major gift development skills by developing your own prospect strategy. In the last course of this specialization you will learn to identify and assess prospective donors and match a donor’s interests and needs with the appropriate planned giving options. The entire specialization takes roughly 5 months to complete and is taught entirely in English.

Grant Writing and Crowdfunding for Public Libraries (University of Michigan)

In this course you will learn about various fundraising and grant writing approaches. You will learn how to properly read a grant application and how to understand and identify what funding organizations are looking for. You will also explore different strategies of crafting a strong grant proposal and be inspired by crowdfunding stories and strategies. This free to audit online course is offered by the University of Michigan and takes roughly 10 hours to complete.

Grant Proposal (Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology) – currently not available

Grant Proposal is an online course offered by Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology. The online class will provide you with guidance on writing a strong grant application, equip you with strategies to put your ideas into words, and demonstrate how you can search the grant market for potential funders. You will also learn how to react to negative feedback from reviewers, learn some project management basics and possible develop awareness for budget pitfalls. The self-paced course takes roughly 17 hours to complete and is taught in English. The course is part of a specialization named English for Research Publication Purposes but can be taken own its own.

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Online Undergraduate and Graduate Creative Writing Programs

Do you want to learn how to tell stories or create art through your words? If you want to write poetry, script plays, or write novels, Liberty has creative writing programs that can help you learn the skills you need. You can start with the basics and develop your skills under the teaching and mentorship of teachers who know their craft. But what program is right for you?

Associate Degrees

Liberty’s 100% online Associate of Arts (A.A.) in Creative Writing offers you the opportunity to enhance your writing skills as you prepare for a future career or a bachelor’s degree.

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Bachelor’s Degrees

Bachelor of science in creative writing – christian literature, bachelor of science in creative writing – english.

Liberty’s 100% online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Creative Writing – English offers you the chance to develop a deep understanding of the English language.

Bachelor of Science in Creative Writing – Journalism

Liberty’s 100% online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Creative Writing – Journalism allows you to develop investigative and reporting abilities and build your portfolio. 

Liberty’s 100% online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in English and Writing offers you advanced training in composition and literature, creative writing, and modern grammar.

Liberty’s 100% online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in English and Writing – Christian Literature can help you hone your writing and critical thinking skills as you explore the works of some of the greatest Christian writers in history.

Liberty’s 100% online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in English and Writing – Creative Writing degree offers advanced training in grammar, technical writing, and storytelling.

Liberty’s 100% online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in English and Writing – Journalism offers you a journalism education that can teach you to write compelling stories and help you pursue exciting writing opportunities.

Liberty’s 100% online Master of Arts (M.A.) in Composition will guide you through the fundamentals of writing and grammar and help prepare you to teach composition at the collegiate level.

Liberty’s 100% online Master of Arts (M.A.) in Professional Writing can help you craft effective communication using digital media, traditional publishing, and cutting-edge technology as you master advanced grammar and composition.

Liberty’s 100% online Master of Arts (M.A.) in Professional Writing – Research Administration and Sponsored Programs blends studies in writing with practical business applications, which can help you become a more marketable job candidate.

Liberty’s 100% online Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Creative Writing is designed to help you build on your writing skills with specific workshops dedicated to the craft of fiction, poetry, creative non-fiction, or screenwriting.

Creative Writing

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Composition

Professional Writing

Professional Writing – Research Administration and Sponsored Programs

Liberty’s 100% online Master of Arts (M.A.) in Professional Writing – Research Administration and Sponsored Programs blends studies in writing with practical business applications, which can help you become a more marketable job candidate.

Creative Writing – Christian Literature

Liberty’s 100% online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Creative Writing – Christian Literature allows you to study prominent authors and works of Christian literature of the past and present. 

Creative Writing – English

Liberty’s 100% online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Creative Writing – English offers you the chance to develop a deep understanding of the English language.

Creative Writing – Journalism

Liberty’s 100% online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Creative Writing – Journalism allows you to develop investigative and reporting abilities and build your portfolio. 

English and Writing

English and Writing – Christian Literature

Liberty’s 100% online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in English and Writing – Christian Literature can help you hone your writing and critical thinking skills as you explore the works of some of the greatest Christian writers in history.

English and Writing – Creative Writing

English and Writing – Journalism

Associate of Arts in Creative Writing

Apply Now Request Information  

Apply Now Request Information    

Liberty’s 100% online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Creative Writing – English offers you the chance to develop a deep understanding of the English language while sharpening your writing skills.

Bachelor of Science in English and Writing – Creative Writing

Liberty’s 100% online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in English and Writing – Creative Writing  offers you advanced training in composition and literature, creative writing, and modern grammar.

Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing

Liberty’s 100% online Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Creative Writing can help you learn new concepts, grow your understanding, and hone your writing skills to their highest form.

Which kind of creative writing program fits my needs?

• If you don’t have a degree and aren’t ready to commit to a bachelor’s – Liberty’s online Associate of Arts in Creative Writing gives you an entry point into creative writing. Designed as a halfway step to a bachelor’s degree, our A.A. in Creative Writing will cover foundational courses and training that can help you get started while opening the door to a more in-depth Bachelor of Science in English and Writing – Creative Writing after you graduate. 
• If you want a full bachelor’s degree focused on creative writing and English language – Liberty’s Bachelor of Science in English and Writing – Creative Writing is designed to equip you with a thorough background in English language studies to support your creative writing skills. The skills you learn in this program can also help you pursue teaching or roles in communication and writing for business. 
• If you already have a bachelor’s degree and want a career in writing – Liberty’s online Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing could be the best choice for you. The M.F.A. in Creative Writing is designed to help you refine your craft and gain a mastery in your writing discipline. And because an M.F.A. is considered a terminal degree, earning a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing can open the door to university teaching. 

Karen Kingsbury Center for Creative Writing An exciting part of our creative writing programs is that you will have the opportunity to take courses that were created in partnership with #1 New York Times bestselling author and Christian novelist Karen Kingsbury. Kingsbury has contributed course content to the degrees above, providing firsthand training in all areas of interest. We are proud to partner with her through our Karen Kingsbury Center for Creative Writing .

Potential Career Options with a Creative Writing Degree

• Book and magazine writer
• Business communications specialist
• Creative writing instructor
• Professional blogger
• Public relations
• Publications editor
• Screenwriter
• Social media coordinator
• Website copy editor and writer
• Writing manager

What Are the Benefits of Studying Creative Writing at Liberty University?

• We are recognized by multiple institutions for our academic quality, affordability, and accessibility . Our commitment to excellence also helped us rank in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America . Earning your online creative writing degree from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.
• Liberty University’s state-of-the-art online learning environment offers you a wide variety of learning methods, including simulations, recorded lectures, and digital collaboration tools that will help you engage with your studies and learn practical teaching skills.
• The majority of tuition for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs has not increased in 9 years. While many other online colleges have raised tuition, Liberty has been able to keep costs low as a nonprofit university.
• You can complete your online creative writing program in less time than you think, due to our 8-week format and 8 start times per year.

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Service is important to us, so whether you’re currently serving in the Armed Forces, have served, or are married to someone who serves, we’re here to serve you. Liberty’s military benefits are available to:

• Active duty service members of the U.S. Armed Forces
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We are proud to support you in your pursuit of a flexible and affordable online education by offering you the following benefits: 

For undergraduate programs:

• Tuition discounts –  $250 per credit hour for undergraduate courses
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• 8-week courses, 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times (may exclude certain courses such as practicums, internships, or field experiences)
• Potential college credit for military training

For graduate programs:

• Tuition discounts – $275 per credit hour for graduate courses
• Additional discount for veterans who serve in a civilian capacity as a First Responder (less than $625 per course)

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