A number of writers working in the freelance field have
regular jobs to pay the bills. This is especially true for newbies who find it
difficult to get a steady stream of income coming in. For any individual with a
dream of writing full time and quitting the daytime job, consider getting a
grant.
Freelance writing grants exist if you happen to know where
to look for them. They bridge the gap between the dream of writing full time
and seeing it come true. Most are large enough to supplement an income in this
field and a few are more than most people will make in their daytime jobs.
There are two types available, competitive and non-competitive.
This will review both types to help inform writers what options are on hand for
these when and if you need them.
Competitive
Countless ones are accessible for both newbies and veteran
writers. There is an enormous field of opportunities open for fiction and non-fiction
writers alike.
Various competitive ones match social causes with writing
opportunities. Projects worth thousands of dollars are on the table. A great
example of matching a social cause would be a company wanting to produce
articles surrounding green living or recycling. A terrific match is writers
displaying expertise or skill in this field.
Applying for a competitive grant typically means submitting
applications or proposals to a review board. The board or sometimes simply a
single reviewer evaluates the information and makes a decision of who gets the
money.
The decision process includes giving points and ranking competitively
all applications received. The highest scores win out.
Noncompetitive
These are similar to competitive grants, but are awarded
using a different method. Candidates receive the money based on a legally
defined blueprint. All grants have their own formula. A number of these never
need a proposal submitted, an application is everything needed. Each will have
their own guidelines outlining what is required and who is eligible based on
the guidelines.
A wonderful example would be extending one to female
writers. There is competition with each applicant, but a proposal from each one
is not necessary. Non female writers are not eligible based on the blueprint.
Where to find grants
These are a few sources to check into for freelance writing
grants. Several are general subjects while others are for a specific genre or
venue. These are both competitive and non-competitive as well.
Fiction writers
A few tips to make it easier
There are several things every writer looking at a grant
should do to make certain they increase the likelihood of getting one.
a)
Always research each one carefully. Know what
the foundation or company offering the grant is searching for and make sure you
are a great fit for it.
b)
Read the instructions for applications and
proposes thoroughly. Follow the directions to the letter
c)
Always handle yourself professionally. If you
are denied, follow up with a thank you for the opportunity to apply, etc. There is a possibility a professional
connection is made for future work or other writing gigs even with a denial.
d)
Look for these through foundations, companies,
organizations and government agencies. Thousands exist for a variety of
different monies.
In conclusion
Hunting for these is a full time job and there is lots of
competition. This is a time consuming project for many and prepare to spend the
time needed to make it successful. Though the time investment is substantial
the payoff is terrific when you find one and get the funds you need.
Literally thousands of funds are located in foundations established for writers in need of grant monies. Some wonderful examples are the Amber Brown Fund, Martha Weston Grant and the Barbara Carlin Grant.
This is only a glimpse of what is available around the web and
there are lots more to be discovered. This is a place to begin your
journey as a freelance writer looking for a writing grant.
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