Here are answers to frequently asked questions about my organization and my services. If you have any questions not addressed below, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Click the “+” for the answer to the FAQ.
What types of grant applications do you write?
I mostly write government grant applications because they are the most complex and challenging, therefore the most likely for clients to need assistance. I can and do also write foundation and corporate applications.
What is the difference between government and foundation/corporate grant applications?
Governments are more fact specific and usually have rigidly detailed guidelines. The proposals are usually lengthier. Government grants are mostly objectively scored with funding decisions depending on the proposals. The applications need to be absolutely clear, clean and specific.
Foundations are much more interested in funding organizations based on relationships. Cultivating relationships is more critical than the proposal. An excellent proposal is still necessary, however without a strong relationship it is unlikely to get funded. The applications are more of a persuasive case statement.
What is your fee structure?
I have a strong preference for negotiating a flat rate fee based on a clearly specified scope of services. Clients enjoy price certainty. Clients do not care how long the work takes my team. When clients strongly prefer I am willing to quote hourly or daily fees which will vary according to specific circumstances.
What is your payment policy?
Generally 50% due upon hiring and 50% due upon completing agreed scope of services. I will negotiate different terms when needed.
Do you ever work on a contingency basis?
Absolutely not. It is a violation of professional ethics. It is bad public policy. It violates the codes of ethics of both the Grant Professionals Association and the Association of fundraising professional. It violates most funder regulations.
Are you available to do pro bono work?
I frequently provide pro bono services. As a practical measure I limit pro bono to those instances where I volunteer and decline in those instances wherein I am solicited.
Do you provide discounts for under-resourced organizations?
I routinely consider my clients’ ability to pay when I negotiate fees.
Do you only serve non-profit organizations?
I mostly provide services to nonprofit community-based, faith-based and national organizations, public entities such as governments and public schools, quasi-public entities such as charter schools and for-profit organizations serving a public good such as inner city daycare providers and medical providers. The overriding consideration is that I am working to advance the needs of vulnerable and/or needy persons through assisting the organizations who support them.