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Grant Writing & Funding

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May 9, 2025 • 47min

Celebrating 400 Episodes: Top Grant Writing Tips and Encouragement from 35 Industry Leaders AND a Free Master Grant Template

THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academyWe have exciting news to share: The Grant Writing & Funding Podcast just hit its 400th episode! 🎉We couldn’t have reached this amazing milestone without YOU—your support, your curiosity, and your drive to make a difference in the nonprofit world.To celebrate, Holly Rustick, our founder and host, is giving you something extra special: an exclusive, FREE 5-part private podcast series, “Inside the Master Grant Template: Private Strategies from Our Signature Framework”, hosted by Holly Rustick and the Freelance Grant Writer Academy. Plus, you will get:A Master Grant TemplateA downloadable Workbook you can use right away. Tap into Holly’s 20 years of experience and the proven framework that’s helped program members win over $225 million in grant funding!🎁 How to Get Your Free Bonus:Go to grantwritingandfunding.com/400 and claim your access before this limited-time offer disappears.What’s Inside Episode 400:The inspiring origin story of the podcast (did you know it started as a $100 bet?!)90-second tips and encouragement from a powerhouse line-up of leading grant pros and nonprofit experts, including Dr. Bev Browning, Sean Kosofsky, Meredith Noble, Rachel Werner, Alejandra Salazar, Philip Deng, Steve Boland, and many more!Practical advice on building relationships with funders, diversifying revenue, using AI, and how to face uncertain times as a grant writer or nonprofit professional.Words of encouragement and reminders that you are making a powerful impact—even when it feels tough.A Few Golden Nuggets from Our Guests:✨ “Be like a detective. Look under every unturned stone.”—Dr. Bev Browning✨ “Don’t chase the money. Chase alignment.”—Brian Meagher✨ “Focus leads to clarity, confidence, and trust—for yourself and your constituents.”—Sarah Olivieri✨ “You are making ripples in people’s lives you’ll likely never meet.”—Niki R. JonesDon’t miss:The story behind Holly’s first guest appearance from her longtime grant hero, Dr. Bev BrowningHow our listenership has grown to over 650,000 downloads from 2017 to todayReal strategies to get through challenges and keep your mission strong.A Big Thank YouThis milestone belongs to every one of you—a true community of grant pros, nonprofit leaders, change makers, and supporters. The world needs your work now more than ever. Please save this episode and come back to it anytime you need inspiration, encouragement, or practical ideas to move forward.Wishing you all the best in your missions—and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!With gratitude,Holly & the GWF TeamP.S. Grab your free private podcast series and master grant template at grantwritingandfunding.com/400. You’ll love the energy and actionable tips inside! THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy
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Apr 29, 2025 • 33min

Ep: 399: State of Grants 2025: A Conversation with Mike Chamberlain of GPA - Part 2

THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academyExecutive Director of the Grant Professionals Association (GPA), Mike Chamberlain and Holly Rustick of Grant Writing & Funding to discuss the role of GPA in supporting grant professionals through advocacy, community building, and professionalism. Holly and Mike delve into the importance of job classification for grant professionals, the annual salary and benefits survey, and the future of grant writing in 2025 amidst changing federal policies and economic conditions. They also discuss the intricacies of the grant application process, the evolving landscape of funding, and the importance of adaptability for grant professionals. They explore the necessity of diversifying funding sources, overcoming assumptions in grant writing, and the value of repurposing materials for broader applications. The discussion also highlights the resilience required in the face of uncertainty and the upcoming Grant Summit as a vital community-building opportunity for grant professionals.Watch Video Podcast HERE: https://youtu.be/ZrdynSl3B6cLinks Mentioned:Grant Professional Mentorship: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipFreelance Grant Writer Academy: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/Tune in today to listen to this podcast.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward writing higher quality grants without overwhelm, and to start and grow successful grant writing businesses! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!"This Podcast Episode is Lovingly Sponsored by:Grant Easy Management Software (GEMS).Break Up with Your Spreadsheet – Get GEMS Grant Easy Management Software and NEVER MISS A DEADLINE AGAIN!Book YOUR FREE demo now! THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy
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Apr 23, 2025 • 34min

State of Grants 2025: A Conversation with Mike Chamberlain of GPA - Part 1

THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academyExecutive Director of the Grant Professionals Association (GPA), Mike Chamberlain and Holly Rustick of Grant Writing & Funding to discuss the role of GPA in supporting grant professionals through advocacy, community building, and professionalism. Holly and Mike delve into the importance of job classification for grant professionals, the annual salary and benefits survey, and the future of grant writing in 2025 amidst changing federal policies and economic conditions.They also discuss the intricacies of the grant application process, the evolving landscape of funding, and the importance of adaptability for grant professionals. They explore the necessity of diversifying funding sources, overcoming assumptions in grant writing, and the value of repurposing materials for broader applications.The discussion also highlights the resilience required in the face of uncertainty and the upcoming Grant Summit as a vital community-building opportunity for grant professionals.Watch Video Podcast HERE: youtu.be/HC0KoDvYiHgLinks Mentioned:Grant Professional Mentorship: grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorshipFreelance Grant Writer Academy: grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-g…er-academy/Tune in today to listen to this podcast.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward writing higher quality grants without overwhelm, and to start and grow successful grant writing businesses!Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!"This Podcast Episode is Lovingly Sponsored by:Grant Easy Management Software (GEMS).Break Up with Your Spreadsheet – Get GEMS Grant Easy Management Software and NEVER MISS A DEADLINE AGAIN!Book YOUR FREE demo now! THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy
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Apr 15, 2025 • 15min

Ep: 397 How AI Is Changing Grant Writing and What You Need to Know

THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academyArtificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the grant writing world, but maybe not how you imagine. Sure you could go ChatGPT, put in a Request for Proposal and ask it to produce a grant proposal. But that grant would not get funded. Why? Before AI can produce a quality grant proposal, you need to provide it with your own original content. Today’s AI models need that original content to use, edit, and respond to. In other words, AI grant writing still requires work! In other words, the nonprofit sector still needs grant writers. However, AI tools can make grant writing easier and more efficient. Through my Freelance Grant Writer Academy, I’ve trained thousands of grant writers, helping them build thriving grant writing businesses. It also gives me a unique insight into how grant writers are really using tools like AI. Let’s take a look at what’s working with grant writing and AI (and what isn’t). Watch Video Podcast HERE: https://youtu.be/CbsNL22cM3U Related Links: -Why AI Won’t Take Your Grant Writing Job: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/why-ai-wont-take-your-grant-writing-job/ -Using Chat GPT and AI for Grant Writing with Philip Deng: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/using-chat-gpt-and-ai-for-grant-writing/ Links Mentioned: Grant Professional Mentorship: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship Freelance Grant Writer Academy: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/ Tune in today to listen to this podcast. Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts “Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward writing higher quality grants without overwhelm, and to start and grow successful grant writing businesses! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!" This Podcast Episode is Lovingly Sponsored by: Grant Easy Management Software (GEMS). Break Up with Your Spreadsheet – Get GEMS Grant Easy Management Software and NEVER MISS A DEADLINE AGAIN! Book YOUR FREE demo now! THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy
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Apr 7, 2025 • 24min

Ep: 396 Grant Writing Myths: What No One Will Tell You About this Career

THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academySurprisingly, there are a lot of myths out there about grant writing. From the myth of working on commission to nonprofits not having money to hire grant writers, these myths might hold you back from even starting a career in grant writing. Why are there so many grant writing myths out there? Because a lot of folks aren’t familiar with grant writing or nonprofit organizations in general. Even many folks who start nonprofit organizations aren’t familiar with how they operate, they just have a passion for helping causes. Grant writing (to non-grant writers) also feels very mysterious and a bit untouchable. However, it’s not. Grant writing as a career is simply offering a service for organizations using your skills and experience. With a successful 20-year grant writing career that is still going strong, I decided it was time to break down some of these myths! Watch Video Podcast Here: https://youtu.be/Kzbv2Zm4lZo Links Mentioned: Grant Professional Mentorship: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship Freelance Grant Writer Academy: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/ Tune in today to listen to this podcast. Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts “Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward writing higher quality grants without overwhelm, and to start and grow successful grant writing businesses! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!" This Podcast Episode is Lovingly Sponsored by: Grant Easy Management Software (GEMS). Break Up with Your Spreadsheet – Get GEMS Grant Easy Management Software and NEVER MISS A DEADLINE AGAIN! Book YOUR FREE demo now! THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy
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Apr 3, 2025 • 40min

Ep: 395 Going from Scarcity Mindset to Courage with a 4-Day Workweek as a Grant Consultant

THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academyIn this week’s podcast Holly Rustick brings Laura Hull, Grant Consultant of Premio Services, LLC on the Grant Writing & Funding podcast. In this conversation, we discuss: -Laura’s journey into grant writing -How Laura negotiated with her job to get health insurance -Hiring and how it has helped to have support -Managing a growing grant writing business as a single mom. About Laura Hull Laura is a first generation U.S. immigrant with more than a decade of grants experience and nonprofit leadership in multicultural contexts. Laura launched PSI in 2017 to elevate the grants profession and increase social impact by providing transformational grants services to nonprofits. She delivers high quality consulting to nonprofits seeking to expand their grant portfolios by uncovering barriers and finding the right resources to meet unique needs. With creative strategy, an average 98% funding success rate, and a data-driven commitment to success, Laura offers the best in grant services to her clients and sector. Outside of grants, Laura enjoys spending quality time with her son and daughter, ages 9 and 4, reading, creative writing, and exploring Idaho's spectacular outdoors. Connect with Laura Hull: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurahullgrantconsultant/ Website: https://premioservices.com/ Links Mentioned: Grant Professional Mentorship: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship Freelance Grant Writer Academy: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/ Tune in today to listen to this podcast. Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts “Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward writing higher quality grants without overwhelm, and to start and grow successful grant writing businesses! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!" This Podcast Episode is Lovingly Sponsored by: Grant Easy Management Software (GEMS). Break Up with Your Spreadsheet – Get GEMS Grant Easy Management Software and NEVER MISS A DEADLINE AGAIN! Book YOUR FREE demo now! THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy
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Apr 2, 2025 • 11min

Bonus Ep: The First Hire You Shouldn't Make as a Grant Professional

THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academyMany grant professionals who are booking out clients and feeling overwhelmed think they need to hire a full-time, credentialed grant writer ASAP. They assume an experienced hire will require less training and be easier to manage. But here’s the truth: hiring a fully credentialed grant writer is NOT the first team member you should bring on. In this episode, we break down why this is a costly mistake and what you should do instead. You’ll learn: ✅ Why hiring a credentialed grant writer is your most expensive hire ✅ Why you still need to train any new hire in your methods, even if they have experience ✅ The importance of creating Systems and SOPs before bringing in a team ✅ A smarter, more affordable way to get help with research and admin tasks first You deserve to feel confident and financially safe as you build your team. Inside the Grant Professional Mentorship, we teach you exactly who to hire first, how much your business can afford, and how to streamline your hiring process with our Part-Time Lean Team Method. Join the Grant Professional Mentorship!A 12-month group coaching mastermind designed to help grant professionals double their business revenue with a team, systems, and scalable offers—without burning out. 💰 Investment: $6,000 paid-in-full (includes a 1:1 Business Strategy Call with Holly!) or 6 payments of $1,000.🚀 Limited seats available! Once spots are filled, enrollment will close. 📌 Ready to grow your team the right way? Join now or book a sales call today! Doors close April 4th, 2025 at 11:59 pm EST https://grantwritingandfunding.com/grant-professional-mentorship THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy
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Apr 1, 2025 • 14min

Bonus Ep. How to Recession-Proof Your Grant Writing Business - Why Waiting Won’t Work

THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academyThe world feels uncertain, but your grant writing business doesn’t have to be. In this episode, we talk about why waiting for the "right time" can cost you opportunities—and how leaning into change can set you up for success. I’ll also share exciting updates about our Grant Professional Mentorship, including new Innovation Calls designed to help you pivot, expand, and double your revenue in 2024. 👉 Doors to the Mentorship close this Friday, and we may not re-open in 2025! If you’re serious about thriving, not just surviving, tune in to learn why NOW is the time to take action. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✔ Why waiting for stability could hold back your success ✔ How to recession-proof your grant writing business ✔ The power of Innovation Calls and expert mentorship ✔ Why this may be the last chance to join before 2026 Doors to the Grant Professional Mentorship close Friday, April 4th at 11:59 pm EST. Find out more here: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/grant-professional-mentorship THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy
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Mar 31, 2025 • 27min

Bonus Ep: How to Hire a Grant Writer in Your Grant Writing Business & Stop Doing all the Client Work

THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academyIf you're a freelance grant writer or running a service-based business, there comes a point where you hit a financial and time ceiling. To scale beyond $50,000 to $100,000 per year, outsourcing is crucial. In this episode, we explore when and how to hire grant writers to help you grow your business without burnout. Doors to the Grant Professional Mentorship close on Friday, April 4th at 11:59 pm EST. The Grant Professional Mentorship is a 12-Month Group Coaching Mastermind for Grant Professionals to Double Your Business Revenue with a Team, Systems, and Scalable Offers - without Burning Out. Join now: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Signs it’s time to start outsourcing in your grant writing business How to hire the right grant writers and avoid common hiring mistakes The difference between subcontracting and hiring contractors How to track time and set task expectations Why Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are essential for smooth onboarding How to determine what your business can afford to pay contractors Creating a clear job description and application process Why and how to use test projects before hiring Steps to successfully hire and onboard your first grant writing contracto Be sure to subscribe to our podcast! THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy
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Mar 26, 2025 • 1h 51min

Bonus Ep: Replay "Double Your Grant Writing Revenue, Writing Fewer Grants, During Any Administration"

THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academyJoin Holly and hundreds of folks who signed up for this Webinar, "Double your Grant Writing Business Revenue, by Writing Fewer Grants, During any Administration". The doors are now open to the Grant Professional Mentorship! The Grant Professional Mentorship is a 12-Month Group Coaching Mastermind for Grant Professionals to Double Your Business Revenue with a Team, Systems, and Scalable Offers - without Burning Out. We have limited seats available. Seats are first-come, first-served. Once our seats fill up, we will not take any further calls. This is the first time in 2025 that our Grant Professional Mentorship has OPENED publicly and might be the only time this year. The Investment for the Mentorship is one payment of $6,000 (paid in full bonus includes a 1:1 Business Strategy Call with Holly) or 6 payments of $1,000. Join by April 4th, 2025 at 11:59 pm EST or book a Sales Call: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/grant-professional-mentorship THE DOORS ARE OPEN TO THE FREELANCE GRANT WRITER ACADEMY! The Academy is for new and aspiring grant writer so you can Replace Your Full-Time Income, on Part-Time Hours, Writing Grants & Funding Assets from Home. Join before Sunday, June 22nd at 11:59 pm EST. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy

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