The Secrets Behind Grant Writing
October 1, 2025 | Lisa Gibbs
Let’s face it, grant writing can feel like a daunting task. Knowing that it is a critical process to secure funding for your non-profit or organization, it can be an extremely nerve-wracking and anxious process to go through. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back. UWF Continuing Education’s online grant writing program is designed to help you navigate the world of grants with confidence.
What will I learn in the course?
This course covers the most important aspects of grant writing, focusing on the rhetorical and audience analysis skills needed to read a Request for Proposal (RFP). It also teaches how to create an intentional message that targets the specific expectations of a granting agency in form, content and style that clearly articulates your project or organization’s mission and need for funding.
You will also work to put into practice the fundamental elements of a grant proposal, such as objectives, problems addressed, methodology, evaluation, assessments, budget and effective cover letters. By the end of this program, you will come out a more ambitious and compelling grant seeker!
Are there any grant writing jobs?
Though it may seem like a niche field, grant writing is a very important job that many organizations look to hire. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not collect data specific to this occupation and include grant writers among other types or writers and authors.
Here are the statistics that would best match grant writers:
- Job Outlook: 4% (As fast as average)
- Number of Jobs, 2023: 50,100
- Median Pay: $91,670 per year
What makes our program special?
The process of grant writing is already stressful, so attending school for in-person courses can be an added stressor. This fully online course is self-paced, so you can work through the content at your own pace. The course access is 22 weeks long, with students completing it in an average of 18 weeks. Led by a UWF professor, this class provides a valuable opportunity to ask all your relevant questions and engage with an expert in writing and securing grant funding.
Don’t let the stress of grant writing affect your proposals. Learn more about our grant writing program.
Student Spotlight: Turning Knowledge Into Impact
Michael Swords successfully secured a $3,000 award for a portable sonogram project and submitted a competitive $5,000 grant to support habitat upgrades at a local conservation center. Building on this momentum, Michael is putting what he learned into practice to launch a freelance grant writing business.
Reflecting on the course experience, he shared:
“Initially, I didn’t see the impact right away. The course taught me that it’s not just about technical writing skills — it’s also about building relationships. As I’ve written more grants, I’ve grown my network and found a real sense of security in that. All nonprofits need a way to raise money, and I can choose which ones I work with to find fulfillment and answer my ‘why.’”
When asked about the most valuable aspect of the course, he highlighted the shift in perspective:
“I gained a better understanding of how grant writing is different from the academic papers I wrote as an undergraduate or the scientific journal articles I published. I would absolutely recommend this class to anyone in science pursuing a Master’s or PhD.”
Michael's advice for others? “No matter how niche your project is, grant writing will help you identify potential funders to help you achieve your dream.”
This is just one example of how the skills learned in our Grant Writing course can open new doors. Whether you’re pursuing research, nonprofit work or personal passion projects, effective grant writing can help bring your ideas to life.
