Grant Writing
Grant Writing is the process of creating detailed proposals to request funding from organizations, foundations, or government agencies. In orchestra management and arts organizations, this is a crucial skill for securing financial support for programs, performances, and educational initiatives. Think of it as telling a compelling story about your organization's needs and impact to convince funders to provide financial support. Similar terms include "grant development," "proposal writing," or "fundraising writing." It's a specialized form of professional writing that combines storytelling, budget planning, and project development.
Examples in Resumes
Secured $500,000 in funding through Grant Writing for youth music programs
Led Grant Writing initiatives resulting in $1M+ annual foundation support
Developed and managed Grant Writing calendar for 20+ annual proposals
Coordinated cross-departmental Grant Proposal development process
Typical job title: "Grant Writers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Grant Writers
Professional Associations
Online Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you manage multiple grant deadlines and prioritize opportunities?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate experience with creating annual grant calendars, evaluating funding opportunities, and coordinating with multiple departments. They should mention tools or systems they've used to track deadlines and requirements.
Q: Tell me about a time you had to turn around a declining funding relationship.
Expected Answer: Strong candidates should describe specific strategies for relationship building with funders, understanding changing priorities, and adapting proposals to meet funder interests while maintaining program integrity.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you collaborate with program staff to gather information for proposals?
Expected Answer: Should discuss methods for collecting program information, translating technical details into clear language, and maintaining good working relationships with colleagues across departments.
Q: What's your process for ensuring proposal budgets align with narrative content?
Expected Answer: Should explain how they work with finance teams, understand basic budget components, and ensure numbers match the story being told in the proposal.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What research methods do you use to identify potential funders?
Expected Answer: Should mention basic research tools like foundation databases, online resources, and ability to review guidelines to determine fit with organizational programs.
Q: How do you ensure you're following all application guidelines?
Expected Answer: Should describe attention to detail, use of checklists, and process for reviewing guidelines and requirements before submission.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic proposal writing and editing
- Research on funding opportunities
- Following application guidelines
- Support with grant tracking
Mid (2-5 years)
- Independent proposal development
- Budget development
- Relationship management with program staff
- Grant reporting and compliance
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic planning for grant programs
- Major proposal management
- Team leadership
- Funder relationship building
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with deadline management
- Poor writing samples
- Lack of attention to detail in applications
- No knowledge of basic funding sources
- Unable to explain how to match programs with funders
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Refining Job Descriptions to Expand Applicant Pools: Casting a Wider Talent Net
The Hidden Art of Salary Negotiation: How to Win Hearts Without Going Broke
How Collaborative Goal Setting Transforms Team Culture
