Grant Writer cover letter
A Grant Writer cover letter is a one-page letter with four parts: an opening that names the role, two short paragraphs proving your fit with specific grants, proposals, funding achievements, and a closing that asks for an interview. Keep it under 400 words, mirror the language of the job posting, and quantify at least one result. For a mid-level nonprofit role, the tone should be professional and focused.
- Role
- Grant Writer
- Industry
- Non-Profit
- Experience level
- Mid level
- Key skills
- grants, proposals, funding
Cover letter essentials
Length
3-4 paragraphs, 250-400 words
Focus skills
grants, proposals, funding, writing
Tone
Professional, non-profit-focused
Cover letter structure
Use this structure for your Grant Writer cover letter.
Header & contact information
Include your full name, email, phone, LinkedIn URL, and the date. For Grant Writer positions, ensure your email address is professional.
Opening paragraph
Hook the reader immediately. Lead with a specific achievement that demonstrates your value. Mention the specific Grant Writer position and where you found it.
Skills & experience paragraph
Highlight 2-3 key achievements relevant to Grant Writer roles. Use metrics when possible: "Increased X by Y%" or "Led a team of Z people." Focus on grants, proposals, funding skills.
Company connection paragraph
Show you've researched the company. Explain why you're excited about this specific nonprofit organization and how your values align with their mission.
Closing paragraph
Reiterate your interest, thank them for their time, and include a clear call-to-action. Express enthusiasm for discussing how you can contribute as their next Grant Writer.
Expert tips for Grant Writer cover letters
Keep your cover letter to one page (300-400 words maximum)
Use a professional tone throughout your letter: professional and focused
Mirror keywords from the job description: grants, proposals, funding, writing
Quantify achievements whenever possible with specific metrics
Customize the opening for each application - avoid generic openings
Proofread carefully - employers expect attention to detail
Reference your years of experience in the field
Connect your background to the company's current challenges
Sample Grant Writer cover letter
Use this template as a starting point and customize it for your specific situation.
Common Grant Writer cover letter mistakes
Steer clear of these pitfalls to make your Non-Profit cover letter stand out.
Rehashing your resume
Using a generic opening
Not showing company knowledge
Forgetting a call to action
Complete your Grant Writer application
Need a cover letter too? Try the japply.io cover letter app, free to start.
Grant Writer cover letter FAQs
Common questions about writing cover letters
How long should a Grant Writer cover letter be?
A Grant Writer cover letter should be 3-4 paragraphs, or 250-400 words on a single page. Don't repeat your resume line by line. Include your strongest qualifications and specific achievements that demonstrate your fit for the role.
What should I include in a Grant Writer cover letter?
Your Grant Writer cover letter should include: a compelling opening that grabs attention, specific examples demonstrating your skills in grants, proposals, funding, evidence of your knowledge about the company, and a clear call-to-action closing. Customize each letter for the specific nonprofit position you're applying to.
How do I address a Grant Writer cover letter if I don't know the hiring manager's name?
If you can't find the hiring manager's name for a Grant Writer position, use "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear Grant Writer Hiring Team." Avoid outdated phrases like "To Whom It May Concern." Try researching the company on LinkedIn or calling the company to find the appropriate person's name.
Should I send a cover letter if it's optional for a Grant Writer position?
Yes, always send a cover letter for Grant Writer positions, even when optional. In nonprofit, a cover letter gives you an opportunity to showcase your personality, explain career transitions, and demonstrate genuine interest in the specific role. It can differentiate you from candidates who only submit resumes.
Write your Grant Writer cover letter
Paste the job and get a cover letter written from your resume, with facts checked against it. Cover letters are free.