A grant pursuit calendar is more than a list of deadlines. It’s a dynamic planning tool that ensures you’re always one step ahead. This calendar maps out not only the deadlines for key funding opportunities but also the lead times needed to prepare strong applications. I am talking big lead times - I start preparing for a grant application at least two months in advance and this two months is included on my grant pursuit calendar. With months of foresight built in, it helps you plan, execute, and win grants without the stress.

Small and medium nonprofits (those operating on budgets under $5 million) are powerhouses of passion and hard work. Built by small teams with big dreams, they achieve remarkable things on limited resources. However, managing everything—from payroll to social media to programs—often leaves staff stretched thin. When it comes to grant writing, it’s easy to think the solution lies in hiring a full-time, in-house grant writer. After all, if grants are a major revenue source, why not have someone dedicated entirely to them?

But here’s the truth: hiring a full-time grant writer is often an expensive mistake for small and medium nonprofits. Let’s debunk the myths that might have you thinking otherwise and show why contract grant writers are the better choice.

Chasing every available grant wastes time and resources, and it could actually hurt your overall funding strategy. In this post, I’ll break down the myth of “apply for every grant” and reveal what you should focus on instead to maximize your chances of securing impactful funding. By the end, you’ll know how to make smarter, data-driven decisions in your grant strategy.

Congratulations—you just submitted your grant application! Wahoo! Submitting a grant is a big deal, and it takes time, energy, and focus to get it done. You might think your work is over now, but I’ve got some news: there’s still plenty to do. A strong grant writer knows that the process doesn’t end at submission. Being proactive after your submission can make all the difference. Here are seven essential steps to take after submitting your grant application.

I’m crazy detail-oriented. I make lists inside of lists and double-check my work like it’s my job (because it is). And still, sometimes I mess up. Shocking, I know—a human making mistakes.

When it comes to grant writing, this happens too. There’s always the risk of missing a document, forgetting to update a section, or overlooking a small error.

I’m a contract grant writer by choice. While I could settle into a traditional role as an in-house grant writer, I’ve embraced contract work because it fits my lifestyle and, more importantly, offers substantial benefits to the non-profits I work with.