Waiting just might be the hardest part of the grant-writing process. It can take months. What should you do in the meanwhile? I discuss what can improve (and what can sink) your chances of receiving the grant while you’re waiting.

And then the letter arrives! Whether the answer is yes or no, you still have work to do to develop your relationship with the funder. Reporting back to the funder is critical if you hope to receive a second grant, so I take you through the steps in creating a good report, including what to do if the project has not progressed as you planned.

Individuals face special challenges in getting grants, so I’ve included a chapter on different research options for individuals and how to create a professional resumé and statement of purpose.

Finally, I’ve included some advice on how to become a successful freelance grant writer. Before you open for business, you need to examine the legal hurdles you must surmount, gather all the tools you’ll need to succeed, learn how to set your fee, and know what to look for in clients.