---

In this episode, Holly Rustick dives into a nuanced topic that many freelance grant writers grapple with: Should you, as a freelancer, submit grants directly on behalf of your clients, or should your clients always be the ones submitting? Holly unpacks the different approaches, shares best practices, and explores the implications for liability, client capacity-building, and business strategy.

Key Discussion Points:

The Big Question:

Who should submit the grant applications—freelancers or clients?

Building Funder Relationships:

Why it’s important to reach out to funding sources before applying, and how those relationships can impact success.

Different Approaches: 

• Freelancers handling all communication and submissions.
• Freelancers coaching clients to be the face of their organization in all funder interactions.
• Hybrid models where responsibilities are shared or adapted based on client needs and context.

Capacity Building:

The trend towards helping nonprofits build in-house capacity and why this matters for long-term funding success.

Liability and Logistics:

The pros and cons of taking on the responsibility of submitting grants—including legal and practical considerations—and why clear contracts matter.

Technology and Practical Roadblocks:

Portals, email addresses, and the messy reality of online submissions.

Real-World Scenarios:

How things can go awry if responsibilities and systems aren’t clear.

Best Practices:

The importance of flexibility, transparency, and having a clear process to follow.

Holly’s Tips:

1. Clarify roles in your contracts: Spell out who will submit the grant and manage communications with funders to avoid misunderstandings or liability.
2. Focus on capacity-building: Whenever possible, train your clients so they can manage relationships and grant submissions long after your contract ends.
3. Remain flexible: Every nonprofit is different—sometimes, a hybrid approach works best.
4. Watch for red flags: If you’re handling submissions, know the extra responsibility (and possibly cost) that comes with it.
5. Always get approval: If you’re submitting, make sure you have written client approval for all final proposals.

Listener Takeaways:

Building strong relationships—with both clients and funders—remains key to success.

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer—much depends on your business style and your client’s needs.

Prioritize systems and communication to make grant writing smoother for everyone.

Links Mentioned in the Podcast

Freelance Grant Writer Academy

Join Holly’s newsletter “Write Grants, Get Paid” for tips and resources.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward writing higher quality grants without overwhelm, and to start and grow successful grant writing businesses! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!“

This Podcast Episode is Lovingly Sponsored by: