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How to Write a Grant: Become a Grant Writing Unicorn
#1 bestseller for nonprofit fundraising and grants
This 2nd edition answers all your questions related to grant writing and the questions you want to ask like...
���� How do I build a career in grant writing?
���� What if the grant I write doesn't win?
���� How do I make time for this?
Here's what we want you to if you can think critically and commit to being the best version of yourself, you will succeed as a grant writing unicorn.
We often get ahead of ourselves, and fear overruns our hopes and dreams. But did you know that you can get started sooner than you realize? As soon as you close this book, you are ready. Marked with chocolate fingerprints, coffee stains, post-its, and highlights, you will feel confident and inspired to take action.
Freshen that cup of joe or tea my friend. We move quickly around here. You are on your way to becoming a Grant Writing Unicorn! ����
This 2nd edition answers all your questions related to grant writing and the questions you want to ask like...
���� How do I build a career in grant writing?
���� What if the grant I write doesn't win?
���� How do I make time for this?
Here's what we want you to if you can think critically and commit to being the best version of yourself, you will succeed as a grant writing unicorn.
We often get ahead of ourselves, and fear overruns our hopes and dreams. But did you know that you can get started sooner than you realize? As soon as you close this book, you are ready. Marked with chocolate fingerprints, coffee stains, post-its, and highlights, you will feel confident and inspired to take action.
Freshen that cup of joe or tea my friend. We move quickly around here. You are on your way to becoming a Grant Writing Unicorn! ����
329 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2021
142 people are currently reading
163 people want to read
About the author
Meredith Noble
1 book4 followersMeredith Noble is the co-founder of Learn Grant Writing, home of the Grant Writers Collective, the #1 online program for grant writing professionals.
She is most known for serving those who are burnt out in their careers and looking to make a change, while also making a difference. Her grant writers have secured over $1 billion in grants (a number that grows daily) and made $6.2 million in the process. Most started with no prior experience.
Meredith has a popular YouTube channel (@learngrantwriting), and she is the author of How to Write a Grant: Become a Grant Writing Unicorn. Her expertise has been featured in NASDAQ, Forbes, Business Insider, Fast Company, Authority Magazine, and other top publications. When not thinking about grants, Meredith is adventuring in Alaska with her family and building her tiny-house dream next to Wrangell St. Elias National Park.
________________________________________________
Learn & Earn with Classes & Community at https://www.learngrantwriting.org/
Build a career you love with Learn Grant Writing. We give you all the skills to thrive personally and professionally. Join our herd of grant-writing unicorns!
She is most known for serving those who are burnt out in their careers and looking to make a change, while also making a difference. Her grant writers have secured over $1 billion in grants (a number that grows daily) and made $6.2 million in the process. Most started with no prior experience.
Meredith has a popular YouTube channel (@learngrantwriting), and she is the author of How to Write a Grant: Become a Grant Writing Unicorn. Her expertise has been featured in NASDAQ, Forbes, Business Insider, Fast Company, Authority Magazine, and other top publications. When not thinking about grants, Meredith is adventuring in Alaska with her family and building her tiny-house dream next to Wrangell St. Elias National Park.
________________________________________________
Learn & Earn with Classes & Community at https://www.learngrantwriting.org/
Build a career you love with Learn Grant Writing. We give you all the skills to thrive personally and professionally. Join our herd of grant-writing unicorns!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
September 10, 2022
This book is like one massive advertisement for the online classes. In the first 50 pages, I found 1 piece of advice helpful. So much was broad strokes advice that is pretty intuitive.
August 9, 2024
This is a great resource if you're looking to hone your skills in project-based grant writing! I learned a lot of things I can improve upon in my approach to grant writing. This book is ideal for people new to grant writing or someone who is already a grant writer but needs some more guidance on how to secure more funding/improve their success rate. However, suppose you work as an in-house grant writer or aren't freelance. In that case, there isn't any advice on approaching a general operating grant. This is probably because project grants are much more common, and funders are typically more interested in projects. Still, I would have loved at least a chapter on advice for Gen Ops funding. I work at a non-profit arts organization, and general operating grants are highly sought after and needed! Overall, I would definitely recommend this book, and I'm excited to start implementing these new processes!
September 14, 2022
To start off, I recommend this book if you’re interested in grant writing. There’s a lot of great information and it’s very clear and concise. My problem is the ridiculous amount of plugs the author had to her website and to her friends’ websites. I wouldn’t have minded if it was two or three mentions, but it was so much more than that. She had links almost every chapter and discount codes every other. It got very annoying after awhile and really brought me out of the learning mood
March 1, 2022
Less than 2 hours to read. Walked away with practical tips and feeling a little more confident to tackle an upcoming work project!
May 11, 2024
Listened to the first edition as a podcast format on Spotify and learned a lot. I appreciate the author making it free and accessible to everyone!
October 15, 2023
A decent starting place. The book focuses a lot on lifestyle advice rather than examples (but, there are specific graphs and samples of what to do in the book as well). But the author does tackle things that may hold you back, such as imposter syndrome and trying to go after grants that really aren't feasible for your project. Don't frame your grants as all doom and gloom, but make sure you have a problem that you're clearly trying to solve. As well as some advice on not letting your bias cloud your judgement with projects. All really good, sound advice for starting out. As well as a playful writing style that makes the book read as more friendly rather than dry text book.
However, the book really never stops selling itself. And look, I get it, you're trying to get people to the online class. But when I've already bought the thing that you're saying will teach me, please just get on with it. I don't mind something in the front, back, or both pointing to other resources, but when it's spaced out constantly like advertisements in a magazine I wish I just watched YouTube videos on the topic instead. They might have the same amount of adds but at least I didn't have to pay money to be sold to.
However, the book really never stops selling itself. And look, I get it, you're trying to get people to the online class. But when I've already bought the thing that you're saying will teach me, please just get on with it. I don't mind something in the front, back, or both pointing to other resources, but when it's spaced out constantly like advertisements in a magazine I wish I just watched YouTube videos on the topic instead. They might have the same amount of adds but at least I didn't have to pay money to be sold to.
March 21, 2022
Well written and concise. I'm not sure it is as thorough as other resources. It skips a lot of the nitty gritty detail and instead goes for broad brush strokes of how the big world of grant writing works. It definitely felt like promo material for the course offered on the website, but was also valuable in it own right. I read some things here I have never read or come across in other material (and I've read quite a bit of grant writing material in my career). If you know nothing about grant writing, I'd read this along with another book with some of the basics.
August 12, 2020
This book is so awesome! It's really fun to read and also helped me develop a much better system for writing grant applications. I like it because it's both a pep talk that explains the "bigger picture" of how to think about grant writing, and a motivator that gives step-by-step guidance on how to get your application prepared.
I have helped lots of businesses and nonprofits put together proposals, and one thing that I almost always see is that the people who do the work really aren't the best ones to explain what they do or why it matters. Most of the time, the drafts that they waste their time putting together are a disorganized mess, providing too much detail about some things and not enough detail about the parts that actually matter. This author must have worked with clients like that before, too, because she knows how to get past those types of roadblocks. As a matter of fact, after reading this book I took the chance on giving it to one of my clients, hoping that it would help him understand what he's been doing wrong and why he never seems to win grants. As it turned out, I was totally thrilled by his response: he ended up buying copies for our entire grant writing team so that we could adopt her system! Since then, things have been much more smooth and now we are able to put together proposals in a shorter amount of time and with a lot less grief.
The advice in this book is both a little unconventional and really practical. It's not your typical, boring index that you can never get through because it reads like a dictionary and ends up sitting on your shelf, taking up space, never to be looked at again. Instead, this book tells you how exactly to get your resources ready so that your important details are planned in advance; how to describe projects in a way that will actually be interesting to funders; and how to make sure that you are giving yourself the best possible shot at winning a grant.
No matter who you are or what type of award you're trying to win, I really think you will find this book helpful. It will teach you how to get organized, so that you can be sure you're really covering all your bases and not wasting your time. It's a pretty quick read, but it's so valuable that you'll refer to it again and again as you change your old, unproductive grant writing habits and adopt ones that will help you actually WIN!
I have helped lots of businesses and nonprofits put together proposals, and one thing that I almost always see is that the people who do the work really aren't the best ones to explain what they do or why it matters. Most of the time, the drafts that they waste their time putting together are a disorganized mess, providing too much detail about some things and not enough detail about the parts that actually matter. This author must have worked with clients like that before, too, because she knows how to get past those types of roadblocks. As a matter of fact, after reading this book I took the chance on giving it to one of my clients, hoping that it would help him understand what he's been doing wrong and why he never seems to win grants. As it turned out, I was totally thrilled by his response: he ended up buying copies for our entire grant writing team so that we could adopt her system! Since then, things have been much more smooth and now we are able to put together proposals in a shorter amount of time and with a lot less grief.
The advice in this book is both a little unconventional and really practical. It's not your typical, boring index that you can never get through because it reads like a dictionary and ends up sitting on your shelf, taking up space, never to be looked at again. Instead, this book tells you how exactly to get your resources ready so that your important details are planned in advance; how to describe projects in a way that will actually be interesting to funders; and how to make sure that you are giving yourself the best possible shot at winning a grant.
No matter who you are or what type of award you're trying to win, I really think you will find this book helpful. It will teach you how to get organized, so that you can be sure you're really covering all your bases and not wasting your time. It's a pretty quick read, but it's so valuable that you'll refer to it again and again as you change your old, unproductive grant writing habits and adopt ones that will help you actually WIN!
August 13, 2020
I'm officially a grant writing unicorn! You can be too!
Let's just say that this little book packs a punch. I mean, enough of a magical punch that I've transformed into a unicorn. I don't know, that seems like a big deal to me. ;)
In all seriousness, Meredith explains the most important elements of grant writing in a very clear, honest way. I learned about several new resources/tools/tips/tricks from reading the book which I so appreciate. I recommend this book if you're interested in learning more about grant writing or to simply shake up the way you have been doing grant writing. Overall, Meredith is smart, practical, and encouraging. She knows what she's talking about and is proven in the field of grant writing. It was refreshing, dare I say FUN, to read about grant writing in a book with so much energy, humor, and wisdom!
Start your journey to becoming a grant writing unicorn today!
Let's just say that this little book packs a punch. I mean, enough of a magical punch that I've transformed into a unicorn. I don't know, that seems like a big deal to me. ;)
In all seriousness, Meredith explains the most important elements of grant writing in a very clear, honest way. I learned about several new resources/tools/tips/tricks from reading the book which I so appreciate. I recommend this book if you're interested in learning more about grant writing or to simply shake up the way you have been doing grant writing. Overall, Meredith is smart, practical, and encouraging. She knows what she's talking about and is proven in the field of grant writing. It was refreshing, dare I say FUN, to read about grant writing in a book with so much energy, humor, and wisdom!
Start your journey to becoming a grant writing unicorn today!
August 9, 2023
When I was just learning to write grants, I got a physical copy of the original version of “How to Write a Grant” which has been now been passed around extensively to friends and colleagues. It’s completely dog eared and well worn with copious notes in the margins.
So, I purchased a Kindle edition. I like having an easily portable reference that I can pop up on my phone to share an excerpt with a project partner. That ebook version has more info and also has highlighted notes!
Such a great resource!!!
So, I purchased a Kindle edition. I like having an easily portable reference that I can pop up on my phone to share an excerpt with a project partner. That ebook version has more info and also has highlighted notes!
Such a great resource!!!
August 12, 2023
I bought the paperback version along with three other grant writing books to get me started on this amazing journey. While all the books are great, THIS book stood out as being more than a guide to writing and preparing a grant.
I bought the audiobook version to have with me on the go. Meredith brings so much energy to the material; it's a fun way to learn and get excited about grant writing. The audiobook is a fantastic resource to have, and trust me, you'll like you have a friend along for the ride!
I bought the audiobook version to have with me on the go. Meredith brings so much energy to the material; it's a fun way to learn and get excited about grant writing. The audiobook is a fantastic resource to have, and trust me, you'll like you have a friend along for the ride!
August 16, 2023
I recently decided to make a transition to a new career in grant writing. I picked up Meredith’s book a few weeks ago to get a primer on the basics of grant writing. It’s a very easy to read and is jam-packed with information and the tips and tricks of the trade. Most of my non/fiction reading is done via audio so when the audiobook was released last week. Meredith does a good job reading her own material although she speaks very fast — Audible luckily provides a way to speed up / slow down narration.
As I venture into this new career, I expect this book to be a trusted reference guide.
As I venture into this new career, I expect this book to be a trusted reference guide.
August 15, 2023
I just found the second edition of this book in an audio format. I love the thorough explanation of the grant writing process. It helped me visualize what working as a grant writer would look like and helped me understand how my prior work experience would benefit that process. I learned several useful tips and tricks about finding the right grant for an organization and how to become a freelance grant writer.
March 17, 2021
Great book for diving into grant writing
I found this book to be very helpful, digestible, and personable. I’m no longer terrified of diving into grant writing. This book laid out the roadmap in actionable steps with vivid and inviting language. Definitely recommend.
I found this book to be very helpful, digestible, and personable. I’m no longer terrified of diving into grant writing. This book laid out the roadmap in actionable steps with vivid and inviting language. Definitely recommend.
October 12, 2022
Aside from finding out ‘you don’t know what you don’t know’ isn’t just a common saying, Meredith gives practical advice and gives you a path that makes sense while assisting you to be more organized. Brilliant! No nonsense and not a boring read lol
December 13, 2022
Excellent and inspiring!
I’ve been a grant writer for five years; I was in need of inspiration to reach my next level. This book taught me new strategies, and truly inspired me to be the best I can be. I highly recommend it. Thank you!
I’ve been a grant writer for five years; I was in need of inspiration to reach my next level. This book taught me new strategies, and truly inspired me to be the best I can be. I highly recommend it. Thank you!
August 9, 2023
Meredith's book did exactly what it's title advertised. I learned how to write a grant with confidence! I was not expecting all of the great project management skills that came along with it. It is well written, easy to read, and I realy did become a Unicorn by the end!
April 27, 2020
Great book
Looking to expand my freelance writing business into grant writing and this book offers simple straight to the point insight on how to do just that.
Looking to expand my freelance writing business into grant writing and this book offers simple straight to the point insight on how to do just that.
August 26, 2020
The best book I have found on Grant Writing and Project Management. Short and sweet book that left me feeling inspired.
May 14, 2022
Really helpful book. I had no idea how grants worked and this book gave a clear and easy to understand strategy to approach the process.
October 24, 2024
Lots of helpful information!
August 17, 2021
Just what I needed for a beginner
Really enjoyed the book. It was concise, clear, and presented a lot of valuable information. As a beginner, this was the right starting point.
Really enjoyed the book. It was concise, clear, and presented a lot of valuable information. As a beginner, this was the right starting point.
August 20, 2023
I'm new to grant writing, and I am so thankful for this book with a clear overview of what I need to know, pay attention to, and the best areas of focus to thrive as a grant writer. I especially appreciate the website links and downloads provided as companion resources. I plan to keep this book on hand for a VERY long time to come, as it has great tips for both new and established writers!
December 12, 2021
So Much in one Magical Book
I bought this book to try to learn how to write a grant for a non profit I am involved with. It helped me understand the process of grant writing but also as an inspirational self help, leadership, and entrepreneurship book. Even if you care nothing about grants, these two women will keep you engaged and flipping pages well after bedtime! Who knew you could learn so much from Unicorns!
I bought this book to try to learn how to write a grant for a non profit I am involved with. It helped me understand the process of grant writing but also as an inspirational self help, leadership, and entrepreneurship book. Even if you care nothing about grants, these two women will keep you engaged and flipping pages well after bedtime! Who knew you could learn so much from Unicorns!
April 3, 2020
I enjoyed this book; however, if you're new to grant writing, I don't think you will get much out of this.
March 14, 2023
This book is AWESOME and the second edition is soooooo good!
August 15, 2023
A Treasure Trove of Wisdom That Takes You Beyond the Basics:
This book is like having a seasoned mentor right by your side, and an absolute must-read for grant writing newbies and pros alike. The whole grant writing process is broken down and includes building your funding strategy, managing your team and projects, writing persuasively for funders, and so much more beyond the writing itself.
"How to Write a Grant" doesn't just serve as a technical guide, but really gets into the art of what makes a great proposal (and writer!) really stand out. I'm impressed with how Meredith has taken such a complex process and breaks it down into concise, concrete steps. She demonstrates her knowledge and expertise while sharing relatable examples from her own career and life. Her book and overall approach are fantastic for anyone with Imposter Syndrome who finds themselves stuck on asking all of the 'what ifs'. This is definitely a must-have for your grant writing journey!
This book is like having a seasoned mentor right by your side, and an absolute must-read for grant writing newbies and pros alike. The whole grant writing process is broken down and includes building your funding strategy, managing your team and projects, writing persuasively for funders, and so much more beyond the writing itself.
"How to Write a Grant" doesn't just serve as a technical guide, but really gets into the art of what makes a great proposal (and writer!) really stand out. I'm impressed with how Meredith has taken such a complex process and breaks it down into concise, concrete steps. She demonstrates her knowledge and expertise while sharing relatable examples from her own career and life. Her book and overall approach are fantastic for anyone with Imposter Syndrome who finds themselves stuck on asking all of the 'what ifs'. This is definitely a must-have for your grant writing journey!
June 27, 2023
Meredith has a way of engaging the reader as both a student and a friend. Her stylistic approach is as if she is sitting next to on the couch and she is telling you about her personal journey with grant writing while cheering you on that you can do it too! It is immediately engaging, thoughtful, and easily applicable. While the book can be read in a start-to-finish fashion, you can also reference whatever particular grant writing phase you need help with by flipping to the appropriate section without feeling like you missed crucial tidbits. Meredith's guidance in the world of grant writing is direct, soft, and charming. You feel her sincerity. The book is filled with excellent analogies, examples of successes and misses, and encouragement. Highly recommend!
June 22, 2023
I wish that I had found "How to Write a Grant" sooner! This is not your "typical" grant writing book because Meredith makes the content engaging and impactful. The front cover definitely shows the spirit behind the book!
For anyone remotely interested in or intrigued by grant writing, I would highly recommend reading this! Since reading "How to Write a Grant" I have launched my own boutique grant consulting firm! I can't rave enough about Meredith's actionable approach to grant writing!
For anyone remotely interested in or intrigued by grant writing, I would highly recommend reading this! Since reading "How to Write a Grant" I have launched my own boutique grant consulting firm! I can't rave enough about Meredith's actionable approach to grant writing!
December 31, 2021
I powered through this book in a day! Written like a conversation, it is informative, thoughtful, and entertaining. Also, incredibly practical and I learned so much about developing relationships with funders, strategy, and project management. I'm so glad I stumbled upon this!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews