Grant Writing & Funding

[Marketing Series] You can turn your current nonprofit job into a freelance client Oct 9, 2026 1831 Burned out in your job and want to open a freelance grant writing business, but just don't have the energy? First, you need to get regulated in your current job. Holly Rustick gives you 7 steps to show you how to treat your current job as a client (and not your boss) so you can get regulation and boundaries to give space and rest to open a side business. You can't open a side business whe

[Marketing Series] Nonprofits don’t want employees right now, they want freelance grant writers Oct 7, 2026 1787 Nonprofits are scrutinizing their hiring budgets more than ever, and that could create a major opportunity for freelance grant writers.In this episode 2 of the Marketing Series for Freelance Grant Writers, Holly Rustick breaks down the pros and cons of nonprofits hiring a freelance grant writer versus bringing a grant writer onto staff. With the continued growth of the freelance economy,

[Marketing Series] How to Make Your Freelance Grant Writing Income as Consistent as a Salary Oct 6, 2026 1959 You want more freedom in your schedule. You want to make more money than you’re making in your nonprofit, teaching, or government job. But there’s one thing that keeps pulling you back to the traditional 9 to 5: consistency. In this episode 2 of the Marketing Series for Freelance Grant Writers Holly will pull back the curtain on retainers.That paycheck arrives every two weeks. You may hav

[FUNDED SERIES] What's Working in Freelance Grant Writing Right Now Sep 29, 2026 1706 What are nonprofits actually paying freelance grant writers for, and what can those services teach you about building more consistent income for your grant business?In this episode of our monthly Funded Series, Holly Rustick breaks down August, 2026 results from students inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and Grant Professional Mentorship. Students reported approximately $40.9 mill

How Freelance Grant Writers Are Using AI to Win Grants, Manage Clients, and Save Time in 2026 Sep 22, 2026 3257 AI is changing grant writing, but experienced grant writers aren’t simply handing over an RFP and asking AI to write the grant.In this episode, Holly Rustick sits down with a panel of three seasoned grant professionals - Sara Cohen, Gwen Valentino, and Nic Daniel - to talk candidly about how they’re actually using AI inside their grant writing businesses in 2026.From developing sophistica

I Know How to Write Grants. Why Can't I Get Enough Clients? Sep 15, 2026 1433 You can be an excellent grant writer and still struggle to build a consistent freelance grant writing business.If you know how to write grants but aren't getting enough clients, the problem may not be your grant writing skills at all. You may have a gap in one of three areas: marketing, pricing, or sales.In this episode, Holly Rustick breaks down why experienced grant writers can struggle

The GRANTS Formula: The 6-Step System Behind Every Grant I've Ever Won Sep 8, 2026 1372 How do you actually write a grant proposal that wins funding?Grant writing is both technical writing and an art form. You need to understand the funder’s requirements, speak directly to their rubric and mission, and build a compelling case backed by specific data. In this episode, Holly Rustick breaks down the process she has developed over more than 20 years of grant writing, training gr

The Funded Series: $4M in Grant + Client Wins (What Worked in July) Sep 1, 2026 777 What if the biggest opportunity in grant funding right now isn’t federal money at all?In this episode of The Funded Series, Holly Rustick breaks down the real grant and client wins reported by members of the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and Grant Professional Mentorship in July 2026—and the numbers challenge some of the biggest assumptions in the grant writing industry.In just one month

Why Your Nonprofit Sales Calls Ghost You (And the 30-Day Fix) Aug 25, 2026 1197 You had a great discovery call. They were excited. You sent the proposal right away.And then…nothing.If you’re replaying the call wondering what you said wrong, the problem might not be the call at all. The problem may be that you never told the potential client when the door closes.In this episode, Holly Rustick breaks down a simple 30-day sales follow-up system for freelance grant write

Is AI Too Precious for Your Grant Writing? Aug 18, 2026 1434 AI is everywhere. New tools are launching almost every week, platforms are changing how they work, and it seems like everyone has an opinion about the "right" way to use AI.But here's the bigger question. Are we becoming too dependent on it?In this episode, Holly Rustick shares why grant writers need to think differently about AI. She talks about how technology standards are changing, wha

The Real Truth About Gen X Grant Professionals Taking Care of Aging Parents, College Kids, and Their Own Retirement Aug 13, 2026 985 Gen X grant professionals are navigating a unique season of life: growing a business while supporting aging parents, helping college-age or young adult children, and trying to prepare for their own retirement; all at the same time.In this bonus episode, Holly Rustick gets candid about a trend she’s seeing again and again in conversations with grant professionals. As life responsibilities

Why Your Revenue isn't Predictable Aug 13, 2026 559 One month, your grant writing business feels like you’ve finally figured it out. A few months later, you’re looking at your bank account wondering where the next client, and the next paycheck, is coming from.Feast-or-famine revenue can feel completely random when you’re living through it. But it isn’t random. There are systems underneath predictable revenue, and when those systems are mis

The 4 CEO Decisions That Double Revenue Aug 13, 2026 730 What’s the difference between a grant writer and the CEO of a grant writing business? It’s not experience, more clients, a bigger team, or even writing better grants. After coaching hundreds of grant professionals over the past 20 years, Holly has learned that the biggest difference is the decisions they make.In this episode, Holly breaks down four CEO decisions that can help grant profes

June 2026 Funded Series: $7.5 Million in Impact, 41 Grant Wins, and Better Grant Writing Businesses Aug 11, 2026 1027 Every month on the Funded Series, Holly Rustick celebrates the incredible grant wins and business milestones happening inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and Grant Professional Mentorship.This month, students reported 41 grant awards totaling $7,095,276, along with $480,340 in new client contracts—creating more than $7.5 million in combined impact in June alone.But beyond the impre

5 Myths That Keep Grant Professionals Stuck from Hiring a Part-Time Team Aug 4, 2026 1369 Hiring a team should make your business easier, not more stressful. Yet for many grant professionals, mindset barriers around leadership, delegation, and responsibility make building a team feel overwhelming or even impossible.In this episode, Holly Rustick unpacks the five biggest myths she hears from grant writers who want to scale but feel stuck when it comes to hiring and retaining a

How to Scale Your Grant Writing Business Without Building an Agency Jul 28, 2026 655 What does it really take to move from being a freelance grant writer to building a thriving business?In this episode, Holly explores the powerful identity shift that transforms a freelancer into a true business owner. She explains why thinking like a CEO not just a service provider is the key to creating a grant writing business that can grow, scale, and support your long-term vision.You'

Feeling Guilty About Leaving Your Nonprofit Job? Jul 21, 2026 1018 Many people are drawn to nonprofit work because they want to make a difference—but what happens when that passion is used against you?In this episode, Holly Rustick pulls back the curtain on the often-overlooked realities of working inside nonprofit organizations. She discusses the toxic patterns that can emerge in nonprofit workplaces, how staff are frequently guilted into accepting low

The Identity Shift That Will Scale Your Grant Writing Business Jul 14, 2026 1481 Are you operating as a freelance grant writer or are you truly stepping into the role of a business owner?There’s a big difference.In this episode, Holly Rustick dives into the mindset shift that transforms a freelance grant writer into a successful business owner. She explores why adopting the identity of a CEO is essential if you want to grow beyond trading time for money and build a su

State of the Grant Industry: May 2026 Market Report Jul 7, 2026 1884 Each month, we analyze real grant awards and client wins reported by members of the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship to uncover the trends shaping the grant funding landscape and the freelance grant writing profession.In this May 2026 State of the Grant Industry report, Holly Rustick breaks down nearly $3.73 million in reported grant funding and client

What Can Make or Break a Nonprofit's Success Before Grant Funding Jun 30, 2026 2380 In this episode, Holly talks with Reece Bester, Founder and CEO of Breakthrough Grants, about what nonprofits need to have in place before pursuing grant funding. Reece shares how data, diversified revenue, fiscal responsibility, testimonials, strong program design, and relationship-building all play a role in becoming truly grant-ready.They also discuss why nonprofits are businesses, how

The 2026 Tax Change Every Grant Writer Should Know About Jun 23, 2026 1245 The 2026 tax change quietly handed nonprofits a fundraising gift, and most of them have no idea. In this episode, Holly breaks it down in plain English: what changed, who it actually helps, who it does not, and exactly how you can turn it into real value for your clients and new business for you. No tax degree required.In this episode:The new rule that lets everyday donors get a tax break

The Fear Never Fully Goes Away, Even After Six Figures (What 12 Years in Business Taught Me) Jun 19, 2026 2211 What if the thing standing between you and a thriving freelance grant writing business isn't lack of experience, but fear?In this deeply personal bonus episode, Holly Rustick pulls back the curtain on her 21-year journey from teaching overseas and volunteering in post-tsunami Indonesia to building a successful freelance grant writing business that provides both financial freedom and meani

The 5 Reasons You Haven't Started a Grant Writing Business Yet (And Why None of Them Are Real) Jun 18, 2026 1156 If you've been telling yourself that now isn't the right time to start a freelance grant writing business, this episode is for you. Holly Rustick tackles the five most common reasons aspiring grant writers stay stuck, and reveals why none of them are actually keeping you from success.From not having enough time, money, experience, or connections to fears about AI replacing grant writers,

"Will AI Replace Grant Writers?” The 2026 AI-READY Framework (Embrace It or Reject It) Jun 16, 2026 1773 Is AI coming for grant writers, or is it creating more opportunity than ever before? Should you embrace it or reject it?In this episode, Holly Rustick cuts through the fear, hype, and uncertainty surrounding artificial intelligence and the future of grant writing. Drawing on more than 20 years of grant writing experience and over a decade of coaching freelance grant writers, Holly introdu

The OMB Proposal: What Grant Writers Actually Need to Know Before July 13 Jun 9, 2026 1617 The headlines about federal grants this week are a lot — and most of them are missing the most important detail: the OMB proposal is not a law. It is not final. It is a proposal, and you have until July 13, 2026 to weigh in on it.In this episode, Holly breaks down what the White House Office of Management and Budget actually published on May 29th, what it would change about how federal gr

[Case Study] She Left Her $70K Job and Was Writing Grants for Free: Now She's Getting Paid Jun 8, 2026 1097 This is a bonus podcast with a special co-host from the Freelance Grant Writer Academy program!What if the biggest shift in your grant writing business isn’t learning how to write grants, but learning how to think like a business owner?In this inspiring Freelance Grant Writer Academy case study, guest host D Abshire sits down with Debra Bare-Rogers, founder of GrantMe Consulting Services,

[Case Study] Karen Was a Burned-Out Nonprofit ED: Now She Has Time for Her Health, Her Mom, and Work That Inspires Her Jun 8, 2026 703 This is a bonus podcast with a special co-host from the Freelance Grant Writer Academy program!What happens when nonprofit leadership burnout becomes the catalyst for building a more flexible, purpose-driven career?In this inspiring case study, guest host D Abshire sits down with Karen McCall, founder of KTM McCall Grant Strategies and a member of the Freelance Grant Writer Academy. After

[Case Study] Madeline Stopped Chasing One-Off Marketing Clients and Finally Has Steady Income (Thanks to Grant Writing Retainers) Jun 8, 2026 480

[Case Study] Cindy Was a Nonprofit Marketing Director with Little Grant Experience: She Started a Grant Writing Business on the Side, Made $87,400, and Quit Her Job. Jun 8, 2026 1433 This is a bonus podcast with a special co-host from the Freelance Grant Writer Academy program!What if you could leverage the skills you've built in nonprofit marketing and fundraising to create a thriving grant writing business—and replace your full-time salary faster than you imagined?In this inspiring Freelance Grant Writer Academy case study, guest host D Abshire sits down with Cindy

FUNDED SERIES: The Future of Grant Writing: What We're Seeing in 2026 Jun 2, 2026 1611 What does the future of grant writing look like in an increasingly uncertain funding landscape?In this episode of FUNDED, Holly Rustick analyzes the latest funding trends from April 2026 and reveals what they mean for grant writers, nonprofits, and funding professionals moving forward. From federal funding disruptions and increased competition for foundation grants to major state funding

Today Is Yesterday: Your Freelance Grant Writing Business Is More Stable Than a J.O.B. May 26, 2026 935 In this powerful solo episode, Holly Rustick shares an unplanned but deeply important message for aspiring and established grant writers alike: this is the era of the freelance grant writer.Fresh off a coaching call and curriculum update inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and Grant Professional Mentorship, Holly dives into what really happened for freelance grant writers in 2025 —

What the NSF Board Firing Means for Grant Writers, Federal Funding & Freelancers May 19, 2026 1631 In this episode of the Grant Writing & Funding Podcast, Holly Rustick breaks down the shocking dismissal of all 22 members of the National Science Board and what it signals for the future of federal funding, philanthropy, and grant strategy. Holly shares why this moment matters far beyond NSF grants and how shifting agency priorities are creating both uncertainty and opportunity acros

Why Boutique Grant Writers Are Winning Right Now (And How to Land Higher-Paying Clients Without Burnout) May 12, 2026 1614 Discover how a boutique consulting firm can outperform large agencies by leaning into relationships, strategy, and high-touch service. In this episode, Dr. Eve McGee shares how she’s secured major wins, built long-term client partnerships, and why grant readiness (not just grant writing) is the real key to funding success.ABOUT OUR GUESTBased in Kansas City, Missouri, Dr. Eve McGee is the

Funded Series: How Our Students Broke $10 Million in Grant Writing Businesses May 5, 2026 1613 This month marked a major milestone inside the grant writing community: over $10 million generated in student grant writing businesses and a collective $278 million in grant funding secured. In this episode, we break down exactly what happened in March 2026 in the grant writing industry, what’s working right now in the grant funding landscape, and what these results signal for both freela

2026 Federal Funding Changes: What Academic Researchers Must Know Now Apr 28, 2026 1606 In this episode, Holly Rustick shares a real-time update from Guam following a recent super typhoon, and then dives into what every grant writer needs to understand about 2026 federal funding.If you’ve been hearing that “there’s no more grant money” or that federal funding has been slashed, this episode breaks down what’s actually happening versus what made headlines. Holly unpacks key bu

Beyond Freelancing: The Power of Fractional Work in the Nonprofit Sector Apr 21, 2026 1778 In this episode of the Grant Writing & Funding podcast, Holly Rustick interviews Cindy Wagman, founder of the Nonprofit Fractional Network, about the growing role of fractional consulting in the nonprofit sector.Cindy explains how fractional work differs from traditional freelance work by combining strategy, planning, and implementation into one role. This model allows nonprofits to a

Grant Writers Using AI Wrong? The Readiness Problem No One Talks About Apr 14, 2026 2186 Steve Vick returns to the podcast to unpack what nonprofit leaders and grant professionals need to understand about AI adoption right now. As the founder of Bright Nonprofit and longtime host of the Nonprofit Ally podcast, Steve brings both nonprofit and tech expertise to the conversation and explains why AI is not just a tool issue: it is a governance issue.In this episode, Holly and Ste

[Funded Series] Inside a $1.9M Month Apr 7, 2026 956 In this February 2026 Funded Series episode, we break down what actually changed in just 30 days inside a growing ecosystem of freelance grant writers and why it matters.This month alone:Over $1.5 million in grant funding was securedNearly $464,000 in client deals were closedIn this episode, Holly unpacks the exact patterns behind these wins, including:The shift from learning → leveraging

What Separates a $50K Grant Writer From a $150K Grant Business Owner Mar 31, 2026 869 In this episode of the Grant Writing & Funding Podcast, Holly Rustick breaks down a key shift that separates grant writers earning around $50K per year from those building six-figure grant businesses.Interestingly, the difference isn’t talent, experience, or even how hard someone works. Many grant writers have similar technical skills:strong proposal writing, program design knowledge,

How Emma Went from Overwhelmed to Organized—and Finally Scaled Her Grant Writing Business Mar 27, 2026 1466 In this bonus episode of the Grant Writing & Funding podcast, Holly Rustick sits down with Emma Krass, Owner and Lead Grant Writer of Grants & Growth, to talk about what it really takes to move from freelancer to CEO.Emma shares her journey from working at a grant writing firm to building her own business—and the challenges she faced along the way. From underpricing services and t

How Alex Built a Scalable Grant Writing Business and Took 2 Weeks Off Without Losing Income Mar 27, 2026 896 What does it really take to move from freelancer to CEO—and finally take time off without your business falling apart?In this special mentorship spotlight episode, Holly Rustick sits down with Alexandra Cohen, founder of ANC Consult, to share her journey of building, refining, and scaling her grant writing business.Alexandra first joined one of Holly’s earliest programs back in 2022, then

How to Scale Your Grant Writing Business Without Burning Out Mar 24, 2026 669 Many successful grant writers eventually reach a moment where their business hits a ceiling, not because there isn’t demand, but because their business relies entirely on their personal capacity.In this episode, Holly Rustick discusses the transition from operating solely as a freelancer to stepping into the role of CEO of your grant writing business. She explores why burnout often appear

Scaling Smarter: How D Increased Income, Took Vacations, and Reclaimed Their Time Mar 20, 2026 1169 D Abshire of Aim for Funding shares how joining the Grant Professional Mentorship helped them move from burnout and 60–80 hour workweeks to a more sustainable, profitable grant writing business. In this conversation, D opens up about doubling her income with fewer clients, taking her first real vacation in years, and building the systems and boundaries that gave her both business growth a

How Marshan Built a Six-Figure Grant Writing Business Without Working All the Time Mar 20, 2026 1675 Marshan Marick shares how niching into public health grants, building stronger systems, and shifting her mindset helped her grow a sustainable six-figure grant writing business. In this episode, she talks about moving from doing everything manually to creating repeatable processes, defining growth on her own terms, and building a business that supports both her income goals and her family

From Overwhelmed to Confident: How Christine Built a Scalable Grant Writing Business inside The Grant Professional Mentorship Mar 20, 2026 1058 What happens when you stop letting your business “just happen” to you—and start building it with intention? In this episode, Holly Rustick sits down with Christine Sakwitz, owner and primary consultant of Kingdom Come Consulting, to share her journey from feeling scattered and reactive in her grant writing business to building clarity, confidence, and consistent revenue.Christine opens up

How Freelance Grant Writers Can Build Retirement Wealth (Even Starting From Zero) Mar 17, 2026 1300 In this episode, Holly Rustick discusses why freelance grant writing is one of the most powerful and recession-resistant skill sets nonprofit professionals can develop. She explains how building a stable freelance grant writing business allows you to take control of your financial future instead of relying on a single employer for retirement.Holly walks through the common financial challe

The Systems That Helped Amy Krigsman Double Her Grant Writing Business Mar 15, 2026 1027 Amy Krigsman shares how she doubled her revenue in 2025, reached her first six-figure year, and began scaling ARK Nonprofit Consulting with the support of the Grant Professional Mentorship. In this case study episode, she talks candidly about moving through the messy middle of business growth, reinvesting in targeted support, building a trusted team, and creating more space in her busines

How Nekaysha Built a Grant Membership for Small Businesses Inside the Mentorship Mar 15, 2026 1470 In this episode, Holly Rustick talks with Nekaycha Cavil, Founder and Lead Consultant of Connected Haven, about how she refined her consulting business and created a scalable offer inside the Grant Professional Mentorship.Nekaycha shares how she moved from being a broad generalist to gaining clarity in her services and positioning. With the mentorship support, she transformed a growing da

How Sara Fixed Her Pricing After 20 Years in Grant Writing Mar 15, 2026 908 Sara Cohen shares what it looks like to level up a grant writing business after 10 years of experience. In this conversation, she opens up about leaving nonprofit dysfunction behind, building a business through word of mouth, and reaching a point where she knew it was time to refine her systems, pricing, and boundaries.Sara talks candidly about a major mindset shift she experienced inside

From Grant Writer to CEO: How Guy Broke $100K and Scaled Beyond 1:1 Client Work Mar 10, 2026 1937 What happens when you stop thinking like a technician and start thinking like a CEO?In this powerful case study interview, Holly sits down with mentorship student Guy A. Holley to unpack the mindset, systems, and strategic shifts that helped him break through his long-standing revenue ceiling and surpass his first $100K year by an additional $15K–$20K.Guy shares how moving from ad-hoc gra

How Gwen Built a $200K Grant Writing Business and Now Out-Earns Her Husband Mar 10, 2026 1158 Securing over $23 million in grant funding in just 24 months is no small feat, and today’s guest has done exactly that.In this episode, Holly Rustick sits down with Gwen Valentino, a New Mexico-based grant strategist who specializes in navigating complex federal and state funding streams. From DOT to LWCF to Healthy Food Financing Initiative awards, Gwen shares what it really takes to man

Fielding Lost $100K in One Week: How This Federal Grant Writer Rebuilt Her Business for 2026 Mar 10, 2026 1271 Fielding Lost $100K in One Week: How This Federal Grant Writer Rebuilt Her Business for 2026What does it look like to move from fully booked grant writer… to true CEO?In this powerful mentorship case study, Holly sits down with Fielding Jezreel, CEO of Jezreel Consulting and founder of the Federal Grants Accelerator, to unpack what changed when she decided to stop operating like a contrac

[Funded Series] 37 Grants. $6 Million. One Month. Here’s What’s Working Mar 3, 2026 1112 In this episode, Holly Rustick breaks down the evolving landscape of grant writing in 2026, sharing powerful insights from January’s funding data and what it signals for the nonprofit sector and freelance grant writers.With $6 million in grants secured in January alone — 84% from family foundations — Holly unpacks what this means for funding trends, strategic positioning, and revenue grow

How Nonprofit Leaders Can Prevent Burnout and Build a Thriving Organizational Culture with Marcia Beckner Feb 24, 2026 2018 Nonprofits exist to do good in the world—but what happens when the people doing that work are burned out, overwhelmed, and working inside unhealthy cultures?In today’s episode, Holly Rustick sits down with Marcia Beckner, nonprofit founder and culture transformation strategist, to talk about one of the most overlooked drivers of impact: organizational culture.After founding My Lifeline Ca

When Nonprofits Should Consider Both Grant Writing & Individual Donor Giving Campaigns Feb 17, 2026 1721 When Nonprofits Should Consider Both Grant Writing & Individual Donor Giving CampaignsIn this conversation, Holly Rustick interviews Alex Cohen, CEO of ANC Consult, about her journey from law to nonprofit consulting, the challenges faced in the nonprofit sector in 2026, and the importance of adapting services to meet the evolving needs of nonprofits. Alex discusses her expansion from

Is Grant Writing Worth It? My Honest Answer Feb 10, 2026 817 Is Grant Writing Worth It? My Honest AnswerIs grant writing actually worth it? In this episode, Holly Rustick is breaking down the honest truth about what grant writing really is, who it’s for, and whether it can realistically turn into a paid skill or career. If you’re new to grant writing, thinking about freelancing, or wondering if this path makes sense for you, this episode will help

[Funded Series] Is Grant Funding Drying Up? December 2025 Grant Market Report Feb 3, 2026 1140 December 2025 shows what happens when grant writers stop scrambling and start operating with systems.December results:$5.01M in grant funding secured45 grants awardedMedian grant around $25K$422,000+ earned in grant writing businessesWhat got funded:General operating support, state and local funding, and capital/development grants: awarded to prepared organizations with clear narratives a

What Grant Reviewers Won’t Tell You — But Score You On Jan 27, 2026 767 Join Holly Rustick as she shares insider secrets from her decade of experience as a federal grant reviewer. Discover why even well-thought-out grant proposals can get rejected and learn strategies to ensure your proposals rise to the top. Holly discusses the importance of clarity, credibility, and alignment between your narrative and budget. Plus, find out about the resources available th

Case Study: How Theresa Moved States Without Losing Clients (and Grew Her Grant Firefighter Business) Jan 24, 2026 1913 In this engaging interview, Holly Rustick talks with Theresa Fowler about her extensive experience in grant writing and consulting. Theresa shares her journey from working full-time in California to becoming a consultant in Texas, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and family commitments. They discuss the benefits of the Freelance Grant Writer Academy, including templates and coach

Case Study: How Dr. Melvin has made more than $80K by going to the Doctor, Dentist, and Parties Jan 24, 2026 1852 In this conversation, Dr. Melvin Musick shares his journey from a traditional consultancy to a thriving grant writing business, emphasizing the importance of discipline, relationships, and creative thinking. He discusses how joining the Academy transformed his approach to grant writing and consultancy, leading to significant financial success and personal growth. Dr. Musick highlights the

Why “Stable” Jobs Don’t Feel Safe Anymore Jan 20, 2026 1026 Why “Stable” Jobs Don’t Feel Safe AnymoreIn uncertain times, many “stable” jobs don’t feel so stable anymore.In this episode, Holly Rustick, CEO of the Freelance Grant Writer Academy, unpacks the illusion of fixed income and why relying on a single employer, whether in nonprofits, government, or corporate roles, can create a false sense of security. As costs rise and economic conditions s

What Grant Writers Need To Know About Major Gifts And Donor Relationships Jan 13, 2026 2585 Grant funding doesn’t happen in a vacuum. In this episode, Holly Rustick sits down with Jeff Schreifels of Veritus Group to unpack why relationships—not just strong proposals—drive funding decisions, donor loyalty, and long-term financial resilience. A must-listen for grant writers navigating today’s shifting funding landscape.ABOUT OUR GUESTWith over 30 years in the nonprofit sector, Jef

November 2025 Report: $3.4M In Grants + $526K Earned Jan 6, 2026 1423 Funded: $3.4 Million in Grants + $525K+ Earned | November 2025In this episode of Funded, we break down what actually happened in grant writing in November 2025 using real data from grant writers inside our programs.Here’s what you’ll learn:How much grant funding was secured in one monthHow much freelance grant writers earned in their businessesWhat types of grants were awarded (foundation

11 Trends Every Freelance Grant Writer Needs To Know In 2026 Dec 30, 2025 1792 In this episode, Holly breaks down the top 11 trends freelance grant writers must lean into in 2026. From funder relationships and AI tools to flexibility, movement-centered grant writing, trigger words, diversified funding, and stepping into thought leadership — this is your roadmap for staying ahead in the rapidly shifting grant writing world.You’ll learn:Why funder relationships matter

“Is It Even Worth Applying?”… and Other Big Federal Grant Questions Answered Dec 23, 2025 1836 In this episode, Holly Rustick from Grant Writing and Funding interviews Fielding Jezreel, CEO of Jezreel Consulting, about the evolving landscape of federal grants. They discuss the challenges and strategies for nonprofits in adapting to new federal grant requirements, the importance of preparation, and the role of DEI in grant writing. Fielding shares insights on how organizations can p

Inside Our $20K Madrid Retreat: The Strategy That Will Fuel A $1B Movement Dec 16, 2025 1780 In this episode of the Grant Writing and Funding Podcast, host Holly Rustic shares an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at a recent team retreat in Madrid, Spain, that cost $20,000. Holly discusses the strategic decisions, deep work, and innovative approaches taken during the retreat, which have already shifted the trajectory of their grant writing and funding movement. Learn about the int

[Funded Series] What’s Actually Getting Funded? Real Grant Data from Hundreds of Students Dec 9, 2025 1904 In this new subseries 'Funded.' Learn about the massive movement to secure $1 billion in grants and $30 million for grant writing businesses by 2030. Holly shares success stories, real data, and insights into what's working in grant writing and funding today. Discover practical tips, how to navigate economic and political shifts, and the innovative strategies of their signature programs.

Funded by Melinda French Gates: Inside the $60M Innovation Grant Challenge Dec 2, 2025 2378 Welcome to the Grant Writing & Funding Podcast! In this episode, host Holly Rustick sits down with Clare Bresnahan English, Senior Director of the Workplace Innovation Now (WIN) Challenge at the Aspen Institute, to break down a massive $60 million grant opportunity for U.S. nonprofits.Tune in today to listen to this podcast.WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE WIN CHALLENGE GRANTTotal Gran

How to Stop Caving When Clients Ask for "Just One More Thing" Nov 25, 2025 865 Join host Holly Rustick on the Grant Writing and Funding Podcast as she delves into the essential topic of setting boundaries as a freelance grant writer. Learn how to professionally handle client requests that fall outside the scope of work while maintaining good relationships and avoiding burnout. Holly shares practical advice, including key phrases and strategies, to ensure that freela

Reclaiming Your Worth — What Money Mindset Has to Do with Grant Writing Nov 18, 2025 707 Welcome to the Grant Writing & Funding Podcast. In this episode, Holly Rustick explores the importance of money mindset in the nonprofit and freelance grant writing sectors. She shares her personal experiences growing up in poverty and how it influenced her career and pricing strategiesYOU'LL LEARN -How to reframe your worth as a grant writer -The difference between charging for time

The Hidden Path to Invite-Only Grants: Relationship Strategies from a Nonprofit's $1M+ Funding Model Nov 11, 2025 2596 Want to land invite-only grants and corporate sponsorships? Hear how Surge for Water built trust-based relationships that unlocked over $1M in funding. Founder Shilpa Alva shares actionable strategies for grant writers and nonprofit leaders to move from cold outreach to long-term funder partnerships, boost corporate support, and secure sustainable funding for water access, menstrual healt

Is Marketing and Branding Important for Your Nonprofit? Nov 4, 2025 1614 In this episode, Holly Rustick interviews Marivi V. Bryant, founder of Home Agency, discussing the critical role of marketing and storytelling for nonprofits. They explore how effective branding and a polished online presence can enhance a nonprofit's credibility and attract funding. Marivi emphasizes the importance of utilizing social media, creating engaging content, and leveraging avai

From Nonprofit Service to Securing $1M+ in Grants: Veronica’s Journey to Advocacy and Freedom Oct 28, 2025 1823 Veronica Kulon, CEO of VK Empowerment Solutions, shares her journey from starting a business to becoming an advocate for her clients after joining the Freelance Grant Writer Academy. She had been full-time with her business (and working part-time at a job) but she still wasn’t tapping into her financial goals. It wasn’t until she joined the Academy, and got some mindset coaching, that she

Student Panel "First $100K in the Academy" and Open House "Is the Academy For Me?" Bonus Pop-Up Podcast Oct 23, 2025 8215 This is a POP-UP Bonus Podcast, meaning it WILL disappear soon! It's a replay from our Student Panel, "First $100K in the Academy" and Open House "Is the Academy for Me?"

How a Social Worker made $149,000 in her Freelance Grant Writing Business in 90 days Oct 21, 2025 1386 Dr. Eve McGee shares her inspiring journey from the social work sector to more than doubling her revenue and impact as a freelance grant writer. She went from a draining job to starting her own grant writing business. The first year in her own business, with no support was isolating and hard, though. So she joined the Freelance Grant Writer Academy.Within 9 months, she went from earning

Academy FAQ Series #4: Can I Join the Academy if I Have NO Grant Writing Experience? Oct 19, 2025 487 You may be wanting to join the Freelance Grant Writer Academy, but have no grant writing experience. That is FINE. Changemakers who have never seen a grant before all the way to seasoned 20+year grant writers get value inside the Academy. You learn grant writing and business acumen in our #1 in the Industry program. The Freelance Grant Writer Academy is a 12-Month Group Coaching, Curricul

Academy FAQ Series #6: How Do I Pay Off the Academy or Get an ROI? Oct 19, 2025 1118 You may be wanting to join the Freelance Grant Writer Academy, but are wondering HOW to pay for it. Find out with these 8 ways. The Freelance Grant Writer Academy is a 12-Month Group Coaching, Curriculum, and Community program to help aspiring and seasoned grant writers replace your full-time income, on flexible hours, writing grants from home.Doors close to the Academy on Friday, Oct. 2

Academy FAQ Series #7: Should I Join the Academy if I already Have a Freelance Grant Writing Business? Oct 19, 2025 625 You may be interested in joining the Freelance Grant Writer Academy, but aren't sure if it's for you since you already have a freelance grant writing business. If you don't have recurring income, filled out your client pipeline, or are still confused about your offers, marketing, or sales... then yes. The Freelance Grant Writer Academy is a 12-Month Group Coaching, Curriculum, and Communi

Academy FAQ Series #3: How Much Time Does it Take in the Academy to Learn Grant Writing and Get Clients? Oct 19, 2025 569 You may be wondering how long it takes to learn grant writing and to get a paying client in the Freelance Grant Writer Academy. You can do it within 90 days. The Freelance Grant Writer Academy is a 12-Month Group Coaching, Curriculum, and Community program to help aspiring and seasoned grant writers replace your full-time income, on flexible hours, writing grants from home.Doors close to

Academy FAQ Series #5: Should I Join the Academy if I don't have a Network? Oct 19, 2025 210 You may be wondering if you can get grant writing clients if you don't have a network, email list, or social media following. YES. Our Academy students get clients without websites, email lists, or on social media. The Freelance Grant Writer Academy is a 12-Month Group Coaching, Curriculum, and Community program to help aspiring and seasoned grant writers replace your full-time income, o

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