Grant Strategy and Support
Most nonprofits want grant funding more than they're ready for it.
I have had the pleasure of working with Margot and can confidently say she is an exceptional resource for any nonprofit organization. Her knowledge of nonprofit finance, budgeting, and grant writing is extensive, and she has consistently provided thoughtful guidance and practical solutions.
The Groundwork Comes First
Grant funding tends to arrive at the end of a lot of unglamorous groundwork: a board that functions, financial systems that can show where the money went, policies that prove you can manage what you're given. The organizations that grow sustainably put that groundwork in place before they apply, and their applications are stronger for it. Blue Heron Nonprofit Consulting works as a grant writing consultant and strategist for nonprofits, wherever you are in that process: deciding which funders to pursue, getting ready to apply, or writing the application for a specific project. Tell us where you're starting from, and we'll meet you there.
Three Ways We Help You Get Grant Ready
Grant Strategy & Prospecting: $1,800
For organizations that want a funding strategy, not just a list of grants to chase. You walk away with:
- A prioritized list of funders worth pursuing, based on what you actually do
- A sequencing plan: when to apply, how to stack multiple grants without overextending your team, and which programs to fund first
- A realistic timeline built around your actual capacity and program needs
Grant Readiness Assessment: $1,000
Wondering whether you're ready to apply at all? Start with our free grant-readiness checklist for a quick, self-guided read on where you stand.
The Grant Readiness Assessment takes that a step further. It's a focused look at whether you're ready to apply, with clear recommendations and next steps, scoped to grant readiness specifically. It does not require our full Organizational Assessment.
Project-Based Grant Writing: $3,500 to $4,500
Writing and submission for a defined set of grants tied to a specific project: a capital campaign, facility expansion, or program launch. The base package covers up to three grants. Where the price lands in that range depends on length and complexity. Additional grants beyond the base three are $750 each. Federal or otherwise complex grants add $3,000.
For capital campaigns in particular, we bring campaign tools built and tested in the field, from planning worksheets to donor outreach frameworks.
Free tool
Start With the Free Grant-Readiness Checklist
Wondering whether you're ready to apply at all? Start with our free grant-readiness checklist for a quick, self-guided read on where you stand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you do ongoing or annual grant writing?
No. Every engagement here has a defined scope and a specific end. We can pick up the next engagement when you have one, but we don't manage grants on an ongoing or annual basis.
Can you guarantee we'll win the grant?
No credible grant consultant can guarantee an award. The funder makes that decision. What we can do is build a strong, well-positioned application: the right funder fit, a clear case, and a proposal that meets every requirement, so your application has the best possible chance.
Do we need to be grant ready before we start?
For project-based grant writing, yes. Grant readiness comes first, before writing begins, and we recommend the Grant Readiness Assessment as part of that process. Grant Strategy & Prospecting can start before you're grant ready. If you want a quick read on where your organization stands, start with our free grant-readiness checklist.
As an Executive Director, I have relied on Margot's expertise on numerous occasions. She has been an invaluable support in helping me navigate complex financial and grant-related challenges, always taking the time to explain processes and offer strategic recommendations.
Talk About a Grant
We work with a small number of organizations at a time, so each grant gets the attention it needs. If you have a specific grant or capital project ahead, or you're still figuring out which funders to pursue, we'd like to hear about it. We respond within one business day. Email: margot.holmes@blueheronnpconsulting.com.