Grant Writing & Funding
Holly Rustick
Quit your toxic nonprofit job and replace your full-time income while writing grants part-time, from home! Join our students in the Freelance Grant Writer Academy to create Financial Stability and Flexibility through writing grants for causes you are passionate about: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy
World-renowned grant writing expert and Amazon bestselling author Holly Rustick provides coaching that helps new and experienced grant writers replace their full-time income while writing grants part-time from home (or anywhere they want to live or travel in the world).
She coaches changemakers to master grant writing and start to grow 6-figure+ grant writing businesses on part-time hours via her signature group program, “Freelance Grant Writer Academy."
As an unapologetic feminist, Holly’s work in coaching female grant writers to master grant writing, find their cause-area niche, and navigate value-based pricing and nonprofit sales is breaking glass ceilings for women all over the world.
Every week, she coaches thousands of people through the top-ranking podcast, Grant Writing & Funding, books on grant writing, and inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy.
Holly has 20 years of experience in grant writing, and began her freelance grant writing journey back in 2005. While teaching in Kuwait and Indonesia, and then earning a Master’s Degree in International Political Economy in Belgium, Holly saw the light of setting up a virtual-based business in grant writing back in the mid-2000s. Having secured more than $45 million of dollars for nonprofit organizations, and then setting up a multi 6-figure freelance business, Holly has a mission to help female grant writers break out of toxic nonprofit J-O-B-S and create high-level income while freelance grant writing.
Inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy, students have secured more than $225+ million in grant funding and $4+ million in revenue in their grant writing businesses within two years.
To amplify this work, she is past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce and was appointed to the Guam Business Advisory Task Force as an advisor to the first female governor of Guam. Holly lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella.
If you are interested in replacing your full-time income while writing grants part-time from home (or from anywhere in the world!) join the Freelance Grant Writer Academy!
www.grantwritingandfunding.com.
World-renowned grant writing expert and Amazon bestselling author Holly Rustick provides coaching that helps new and experienced grant writers replace their full-time income while writing grants part-time from home (or anywhere they want to live or travel in the world).
She coaches changemakers to master grant writing and start to grow 6-figure+ grant writing businesses on part-time hours via her signature group program, “Freelance Grant Writer Academy."
As an unapologetic feminist, Holly’s work in coaching female grant writers to master grant writing, find their cause-area niche, and navigate value-based pricing and nonprofit sales is breaking glass ceilings for women all over the world.
Every week, she coaches thousands of people through the top-ranking podcast, Grant Writing & Funding, books on grant writing, and inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy.
Holly has 20 years of experience in grant writing, and began her freelance grant writing journey back in 2005. While teaching in Kuwait and Indonesia, and then earning a Master’s Degree in International Political Economy in Belgium, Holly saw the light of setting up a virtual-based business in grant writing back in the mid-2000s. Having secured more than $45 million of dollars for nonprofit organizations, and then setting up a multi 6-figure freelance business, Holly has a mission to help female grant writers break out of toxic nonprofit J-O-B-S and create high-level income while freelance grant writing.
Inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy, students have secured more than $225+ million in grant funding and $4+ million in revenue in their grant writing businesses within two years.
To amplify this work, she is past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce and was appointed to the Guam Business Advisory Task Force as an advisor to the first female governor of Guam. Holly lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella.
If you are interested in replacing your full-time income while writing grants part-time from home (or from anywhere in the world!) join the Freelance Grant Writer Academy!
www.grantwritingandfunding.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 10, 2025 • 15min
How to Start a Freelance Grant Writing Business: Tips & Logistics
Join the Free, Live Training, "Earn an Extra $10K in 90 Days Writing Grants at Home" on Tuesday, October 14th at 4 pm - 5:30 pm EST. Click here https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar.Learn how to kickstart your freelance grant writing business, whether as a full-time income source or a part-time side hustle. We'll cover essential administrative logistics like incorporating your business, choosing a business name, and the benefits of going freelance. Discover the flexibility and earning potential of grant writing, ideal for various life situations. Get tips on setting your services and pricing, and stay tuned for more insights on going full-time or part-time in the next video!Links 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!
Jun 9, 2025 • 47min
HOW EOWYN WENT FROM WORKING IN HIGHER ED TO GETTING HER FIRST GRANT WRITING CLIENT (AND OPERA NONPROFIT)
Join the Free, Live Training, "Earn an Extra $10K in 90 Days Writing Grants at Home" on Tuesday, October 14th at 4 pm - 5:30 pm EST. Click here https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar.Holly Rustick interviews Éowyn Melaragno, who shares her journey from a career in higher education to becoming a successful grant writer. Éowyn discusses her motivations for transitioning into grant writing, the valuable support she received from the Freelance Grant Writer Academy, and the importance of community in building confidence and skills. She reflects on her first client experience, the challenges of navigating client relationships, and the mindset shifts that have helped her thrive in the nonprofit sector. Tune in today to listen to this podcast. To learn more about the podcast episodes go to https://grantwritingandfunding.com/grant-writing-podcast/ "Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple PodcastsFavor, please?If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickCoaches new and experienced grant writers to earn high 5-6 figure incomes writing grants from home!Get Freelance Grant Writing Spicy Tips when you Join the weekly newsletter series “Write Grants. Get Paid” https://grantwritingandfunding.com/ Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home.https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/———————————————————————————This podcast episode was lovingly sponsored by GEMS!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! Click here: https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/gems ———————————————————————————
Jun 3, 2025 • 13min
Ep: 404 Do You Need a Grant Writing Certification? Here’s the Truth
Join the Free, Live Training, "Earn an Extra $10K in 90 Days Writing Grants at Home" on Tuesday, October 14th at 4 pm - 5:30 pm EST. Click here https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar.In this episode, Holly Rustic, founder and CEO of the Freelance Grant Writer Academy, shares essential tips for starting a freelance grant writing business. Learn where to find clients, the key skills needed, and why you don't need certifications or extensive experience to get started. Holly also discusses the value of practical experience, business acumen, and how to grow your confidence and skills in grant writing. Tune in for expert insights and actionable advice to build a successful freelance grant writing career.Links 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!
Jun 3, 2025 • 34min
From State Senator to Grant Writer: Tina Maharath's Journey
Join the Free, Live Training, "Earn an Extra $10K in 90 Days Writing Grants at Home" on Tuesday, October 14th at 4 pm - 5:30 pm EST. Click here https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar.In this episode, Holly Rustick interviews Tina Maharath, a former state senator turned grant writer, who shares her journey from volunteering in grant writing to establishing her own business, Lobby Edge. Tina discusses her experiences in the Academy, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the importance of networking and marketing in the nonprofit sector. She emphasizes the need for nonprofits to understand the opportunities available through state contracts and the value of hiring lobbyists for funding. Tina also highlights the diverse services she offers, including grant writing and government contracts, and encourages aspiring grant writers to invest in their skills and businesses.Tune in today to listen to this podcast. To learn more about the podcast episodes go to https://grantwritingandfunding.com/grant-writing-podcast/ "Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple PodcastsFavor, please?If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! Thanks for listening!Warmly,Holly RustickCoaches new and experienced grant writers to earn high 5-6 figure incomes writing grants from home!Get Freelance Grant Writing Spicy Tips when you Join the weekly newsletter series “Write Grants. Get Paid” https://grantwritingandfunding.com/ Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home.https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/———————————————————————————This podcast episode was lovingly sponsored by GEMS!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! Click here: https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/gems
May 27, 2025 • 1h 8min
Ep: 403 Spilling the Tea on all Things AI and Grant Writing with Phil Deng
Join the Free, Live Training, "Earn an Extra $10K in 90 Days Writing Grants at Home" on Tuesday, October 14th at 4 pm - 5:30 pm EST. Click here https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar.Grant pros, we’re spilling the tea! Holly Rustick and Philip Deng (Grantable CEO) dive into the wild world of AI + grant writing—from cheap-clothes tech to deep strategy. If you’re using (or side-eyeing) AI for grant writing, this one’s a must-listen.THIS episode! Grant writers, grab your headphones—because we’re spilling the tea on all things AI! Holly Rustick sits down with Philip Deng, CEO of Grantable, to talk about how AI is shaking up grant writing. From the risks of ‘fast fashion’ tech to the need for human strategy, this convo dives into what’s real, what’s hype, and how to stay curious in the AI age.If you are considering, or currently using, AI for grant writing - tune in today! Phil and Holly go deep into items like:How AI can be like ‘cheap clothes’ if not used correctlyWill grant writers be left behind if they aren’t using AI?How AI is impacting the environmentWhy and how thought needs to be a part of AI and grant writingHow to be curious with AI when navigating the rapidly changing landscapeLinks 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!
May 20, 2025 • 32min
Ep: 402 Unlocking Museum and Nonprofit Grant Opportunities with Shiloh Holley
Join the Free, Live Training, "Earn an Extra $10K in 90 Days Writing Grants at Home" on Tuesday, October 14th at 4 pm - 5:30 pm EST. Click here https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar.In this conversation, Holly Rustick interviews Shiloh Holley, founder of Aderworks Consulting, who shares her journey into grant writing and consulting for nonprofits, particularly museums. Shiloh discusses her transition from executive director to consultant, the development of grant writing products, and the challenges faced by museums in securing funding. She emphasizes the importance of diversifying funding sources and using data to inform fundraising strategies. The conversation highlights the collaborative nature of consulting and the need for nonprofits to adapt to changing funding landscapes.Links 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!
May 13, 2025 • 29min
Ep: 401 How Grant Writers Priced Their Services in the Past (Replay)
Join the Free, Live Training, "Earn an Extra $10K in 90 Days Writing Grants at Home" on Tuesday, October 14th at 4 pm - 5:30 pm EST. Click here https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar.Find out how much grant writers charged in 2023 for their grant writing services.Join this Replay from Rachel Waterman from last year as we prepare for the upcoming NEW survey results of 2024.First, give a catch up to where freelance grant writers were in their pricing in 2023. And be sure to join us for the upcoming FREE Survey Results Webinar on May 14th! You will hear how much grant consultants are charging, how they feel about charging, and gaps in pricing.This is the 3rd year that Grant Writing & Funding has hosted GDS Grant Professional Survey Results!In the upcoming workshop on May 14th, from 4 pm - 5:30 pm EST, Rachel will unveil the 2024 Grant Professional Survey results AND we will have some time to talk about those results!LINK HERE: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/survey-pricingLinks 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!
May 9, 2025 • 45min
Celebrating 400 Episodes: Top Grant Writing Tips and Encouragement from 35 Industry Leaders AND a Free Master Grant Template
Join the Free, Live Training, "Earn an Extra $10K in 90 Days Writing Grants at Home" on Tuesday, October 14th at 4 pm - 5:30 pm EST. Click here https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar.We 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!
Apr 29, 2025 • 32min
Ep: 399: State of Grants 2025: A Conversation with Mike Chamberlain of GPA - Part 2
Join the Free, Live Training, "Earn an Extra $10K in 90 Days Writing Grants at Home" on Tuesday, October 14th at 4 pm - 5:30 pm EST. Click here https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar.Executive 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!
Apr 23, 2025 • 33min
State of Grants 2025: A Conversation with Mike Chamberlain of GPA - Part 1
Join the Free, Live Training, "Earn an Extra $10K in 90 Days Writing Grants at Home" on Tuesday, October 14th at 4 pm - 5:30 pm EST. Click here https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar.Executive 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!
