Oh yes. Those pesky grant writing qualms. 

Here are the top questions that I get. 

#1: How Do You Get Funding From Grants for General Operating Expenses?

You can get funding for general operating expenses through 3 ways:

Pursue specific grants that target general operating 
Include a certain percentage of your general operating expenses within the direct categories of a grant project budget
Include up to 10% of the grant amount in the indirect category in a grant budget
#2: As a non-US grant seeker, is there funding available?

Yes! There is absolutely funding available! You can get that through the following:

There are certain U.S. federal grants that give specifically to nonprofits (both U.S. organizations based abroad and to non-U.S. nonprofits)

Certain foundations give out money to nonprofits around the world (think Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation)

There are many international funding sources, such as EU organizations, UN organizations, foundations, Canadian funding, etc.

#3: Do you recommend college courses for beginning grant writers?

That depends. If you are in college already and want to get college credit toward a degree this could be great. However, if you are not in college nor seeking a degree, then I would recommend taking a grant writing course offered by a grant writer that is in the field. 

Such as my 6-Week Live Grant Writing Course or DIY Grant Writing Course *wink-wink*

But the fact is these courses can cost way less and take less time, but give you the real tips of how grant writers are actually winning grants!

#4: What's the best approach when a foundation states they don't accept unsolicited applications?

Develop a relationship. A way to side-step the gatekeeper is to go on LinkedIn and start a relationship with decision-makers at the foundations.

But remember - don't go in blazing asking for money right away. Spend time liking their posts and making comments. Start sharing things with them that they may find interesting. And make sure they are a good fit. Does their mission statement align with your nonprofit's mission?

#5: I am a freelance grant writer and my nonprofit client does not know how to guide me.  What questions should I ask to get information?

Ooh, I love this one. So first off you need to:

Give them a list requesting certain documents 

Then have a Kick-off Grant Writing Meeting

Include the Executive Director, Bookkeeper, Grant Coordinator, and possibly an expert

Write down the deadlines and tasks for everyone

Thanks for listening!
Holly Rustick
Expert Grant Writer & Bestselling Author
https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/