Non-profits like to hire writers on commission. That way if the grant isn’t funded they are not out any money. It’s also attractive for a freelance writer, anxious for work, to accept a job like this, in hopes of getting that grant.

However, The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) considers this practice unethical and will withdraw the membership of any writer who works on commission. Not a good business practice. Foundations frown upon it as well.

Here’s why:

1. Grant writers have little control over whether nonprofits win grants. An expert writer is going to deliver a nonprofit a more competitive proposal, but in the end the decision rests with the foundation. Even the most well written, most compelling grants get turned down, at no fault of the grant writer. Foundations have many more applicants than funds available. In addition, much of what goes into a grant proposal is out … Read More

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