The Artist's Guide to Grant Writing: How to Find Funds and Write Foolproof Proposals for the Visual, Literary, and Performing Artist

by Gigi Rosenberg

The Artist’s Guide to Grant Writing is designed to transform readers from starving artists fumbling to get by into working artists who confidently tap into all the resources at their disposal. Written in an engaging and down-to-earth tone, this comprehensive guide includes time-tested strategies, anecdotes from successful grant writers, and tips from grant officers and fundraising specialists. The book is targeted at both professional and aspiring writers, performers, and visual artists who need concrete information about how to write winning grant applications and fundraise creatively so that they can finance their artistic dreams.

Genres: Art, Nonfiction, Writing, Business

222 pages, Paperback

First published July 23, 2010

Reviews

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I appreciated most about this book is that it is about so much more than grant writing! It is an energizing invitation for artists to advocate for one’s self and work. GiGi Rosenberg takes apart the whole process of conceptualizing creative projects and re-framing the details---not just to attract funders, but, also, to help the artist to stop walking around with nebulous aspirations that never grows legs or wings.
While there is plenty of singular work to be done, Rosenberg encourages the development of a trusted team of folk with whom one can hash ideas, help field critical questions, and collaborate. Understanding and addressing the basic elements of a successful grant proposal includes bold and realistic budgeting, and strategies for how to do that are clearly presented. Sample artist statements and “elevator speeches” are provided, as well as 11 pages of appendices of where to find grants, residencies, books, and websites to assist any artist’s quest to fulfill their creative dreams---a lot of motivation and support packed into a book of less than 200 pages!

[Linds · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very helpful with real world advice.

[Rachel Czech · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read to get introduced to the daunting world of grant writing. I'm looking forward to trying out some of Rosenberg's tips this year (she has supplied many ideas to kick-start your brainstorming) as I apply for my first grants and try-out different fundraising projects for a future 2016 recital tour that I will be planning with the help of my composer friends. The appendices are filled with additional resources from where to find grant money to other books and websites about the artist/grant process that I am eager to research and devour this year as well!

I highly recommend this book to artists of all types (visual, spatial, performance, etc) to learn how to confidently ask for money- because it is extremely difficult without thinking you are somehow belittling your work.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is fantastic -- not just for all of the grant-writing advice (which is in itself invaluable) but also because it really made me look at and think about my art and writing as a career in which to formulate plans and goals, and gives practical, useful advice on how to go about doing that. This is definitely a book that's going to live on my desk for awhile while I try to absorb all the passages I've highlighted.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grant writing needn't be a chore, as Gigi Rosenberg proves with this book. The anecdotes and exercises that she includes are designed to tap into the natural creativity of artists, thus allowing them to gain the perspective necessary to define the value of their work and convey that to funders. Even dryer subjects like budgets spring to life under Rosenberg's warm, witty gaze. This book is a must-read for artists, grant writers, and funders.

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gives practical advice for applying for grants. It also left me inspired to fight for art.

[Mandy Lehti · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Artist's Guide to Grant Writing by Gigi Rosenberg is a practical, empowering, and highly accessible guide for artists seeking to secure funding and bring their creative visions to life. The book transforms what can often feel like a confusing, intimidating process into clear, actionable steps, making it invaluable for both emerging and professional artists.

Rosenberg excels at blending practical instruction with real-world anecdotes, sharing insights from successful grant writers and fundraising specialists. Her guidance covers everything from identifying funding opportunities to crafting proposals that stand out, all in a conversational, approachable style that keeps readers engaged. The strategies she offers are applicable across visual, literary, and performing arts, ensuring that artists of all disciplines can benefit.

This guide’s strength lies not just in technique, but in encouragement: it empowers readers to approach grant writing with confidence, creativity, and a strategic mindset. Artists finish the book not only equipped with tools but also motivated to actively pursue opportunities that support their work.

Artists, performers, writers, and creatives seeking to finance their projects, expand their reach, or professionalize their practice will find this book indispensable. It’s a resource that combines expertise, practicality, and inspiration in a way that truly elevates the grant-writing experience.

[Shan Dante · Rating 4 out of 5]

An easy and exciting book that delves into the boring nature of Grant Writing. Gigi does an excellent job in trying to make a monotonous task sound exciting, using helpful tips and strategies to combat resistance. My only issue is that it is very American Focused, and by consequence a lot of the financial aspects don't translate well over in Australia very well. No-one wants to write for grants, and no-one wants to read books on how to write for grants, but Gigi makes it just that little bit easier to get into.

[Ruby Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had to read this book slowly because every page was packed with valuable tips and information.

A book I will reference for many years to come.

Lots of impactful questions that left me pondering for days. Now I need to set time aside for tons of research and writing.

Highly recommended it, even if you just need tips on how to write a better bio.

[UndeadArtist]

Business meets artistic

[mmmm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal, helped me get several grants in a row!

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really great resource that transcends the basic "how to" on writing grant proposals to encompass wise advice on staying motivated as you advocate for the value of your work. Chapter 5's step by step guide to the proposal writing process has great tips on writing and kicking procrastination that you can keep in your back pocket even when not applying for grants. My favorite feature, however, is the wonderful annotated appendices that not only list several books and websites to guide you through the grant process, but also feature titles on creativity, personal finance,career guidance,and psychological support to keep you empowered and inspired.

[Sarah Key · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great introduction to grant writing. I have a feeling that I will be sharing this book with friends and inciting arguments with my tech writing teacher. It was refreshing to see Mary Syzbist along with several other Oregon writers quoted in Rosenberg's book.

[Stefanie Lubkowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has great instructions, tips and resources for generating the kinds of material you need not just for grants, but for any promotion and advancement of your work. Best of all, among all the instructional material are lots of encouraging words.

[Stephanie Harvey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is definitely a book to own, not to borrow. Lot of great resources to look back upon as you're working on grants and ideas for fundraising. Took me a really long time to read, but I'm definitely glad I read it. Will be putting some of these practices to use very soon.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Useful, friendly advice on all details of grant applications for artists of all types. Rosenberg makes a boring subject readable, and throws in lots of resources for even more info.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really useful and also interesting. I have ideas . . .

[Paullette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely fantastic!!!