Madison Shampine Grant Writing & Consulting

In accordance with the GPA Code of Ethics, I don’t work on commission and my fees are not based on awarded grants. From a compliance standpoint, grants are rarely allowed to be used on previously incurred expenses, general operating or fundraising, and costs outside of the specific program/project described in your application.

From a personal perspective, the work I perform with regard to grant writing is completed at the pre-award phase and, while I do everything in my power to give you the best chance of an award, they are not guaranteed. My fee is based on my experience, the strategy I bring forth, and the many hours I spend crafting a compelling proposal.

GPA Code of Ethics: Grant Professionals Association

This is one of the first questions most prospective clients ask, but it’s a hotly debated topic for grant professionals. A win rate rarely assesses a grant writer’s skill and more often has to do with an organization’s experience, capacity, and grant strategy. 

For example, Client A has cultivated their funder relationships for years, receives annual invitations to apply, and uses their current relationships to establish new ones. They typically only apply to grant opportunities that they have a high chance of success, rarely submitting “cold call” applications or long shots. Because of this strategy, Client A has a high win rate.

Client B, on the other hand, is just building their grants portfolio. While they’re actively cultivating current and new funders, they also apply to new prospects without first establishing a relationship. Essentially, the strategy is more applications = the higher chance of an award. While this can also be effective, you do end up with more declines initially. Because of this strategy, Client B has a lower win rate.

As an independent contractor, my role is primarily in the background. The best use of my time is preparing the grant proposal documents, while your time should be spent cultivating long-lasting, impactful relationships with your funders. At the end of the day, the funder is building a relationship with you and your organization, not a contractor. On occasion, it may be helpful for you to invite me to a meeting with your funder when discussing a specific grant application, which I am happy to attend!