Why should journalists consider transitioning to grant writing?

In both grant writing and journalism, attention to detail is key. Often, grant funding sources require the same procedures and documentation, but differ slightly between agencies. These details can be make-or-break in the pre-award process, and if overlooked throughout the grant duration, can become obstacles in the close-out phase. Similarly, journalists must pay close attention to how their sources present information. A question or prompt might generate similar responses, but they likely vary in the way the answers were delivered-- whether through vocal cues, body language, or confidence. Close attention must be paid so that these nuances can be discerned and accurately portrayed.

The two require similar skill sets, ability to conduct thorough research, attention to details and facts, and the ability to write a compelling narrative, which is a key element in both fields.

Research, compelling storytelling with facts and objectivity, collaboration, deadline-driven accuracy, and the discernment of objectives and outcomes are important shared characteristics of journalists and grant writers. While the deadline timetable may differ, planning backward from the submission timeframe to ensure all bases and guidelines are covered, leaving space for the unexpected, is a grant writing must. And like journalists, grant writers become quick experts on the matter at hand, through research and ... listening.

I transitioned from journalism to grant writing and I have found there to be several similarities. Writing for a grant requires the same level of information gathering that you would from interviewing, and you're often working with word or character limits. Grant writing allows you to make a great impact and difference for the community and the beneficiaries, and there are a good number of opportunities available whether it be with a smaller non-profit or a larger organization such as a college/university.

After many years in journalism, I became a grant writer in 2015. My newswriting skills transferred readily to grant writing. The biggest difference is the deadlines. As a reporter for an environmental daily, I sometimes didn't get an assignment until the morning or even early afternoon and had a 5:00 p.m. deadline. I almost always know about a grant deadline weeks in advance. Newswriting style works for grant proposals. Tell the story with facts, statistics, data, and quotes. Skip the adjectives. Use active voice. Don't use that ponderous style too common in grant writing. It's not a legal brief or your PhD dissertation! Keep your readers in mind. Don't bore them. Tell them everything they need to know once, i.e., don't be repetitive.

Every time I take on a new client as a grant writer, I end up learning about a completely new issue. I've had clients working on everything from college education for incarcerated people to free veterinary care for low-income communities. This is one of the most rewarding aspects of being a grant writer.

Journalists tackle diverse topics and niches.Grant writers also work on diverse topics. Journalists can also work as consultants just like the grant writers. Journalist will benefit more when they transition to grant writing as it will help them an an extra income.

There are a lot of opportunities available at both state and federal levels. Plus, a journalist's wide range of knowledge can be useful in the various subject areas and funding sources. These grants tend to value a concise writing style that many journalists may be adept at. Also, it's a great way to help the non-profits or causes that you champion.

Grant writing allows you to see tangible change as a result of words you write. Within the last year, I was able to see an academic remediation tutoring program begin as a result of funds coming in through grant applications. Programs are created and lives are positively changed as a result of your time and efforts.

A great way to get started is by volunteering on websites like CatchAFire. You can hone your skills there until you are confident enough to offer your services for money.

Grant writing and journalism may be more similar than you would think. For example, many home improvement or restoration grants rely heavily on the human impact portion of the grant, with requirements like photographs and interviews to accompany the paperwork. Speaking with grant applicants and members of the community is usually a sort of impromptu interview, where you learn about the needs of the individual and the broader needs of the community as you discuss information related to the grant. Furthermore, grant writers can act as advocates on behalf of the community to voice a need or concern that may have been overlooked previously. Journalism and grant writing at their core focus on addressing needs and uplifting voices for change.