We can't tell you how many times we come across organizations who have a grant writer, who get frustrated, and then contact us at Midwest Studies Group about taking over their grant writing.

When talking with potential clients, we often end up suggesting that perhaps their grant writer is better than they might get credit for. Consider this:

- A 60% success rate is considered "good" as long as you have a relationship with the group you are writing the grant to. If you don't have a relationship and randomly send an application to a group? That number dives to 10-20% or worse.

- Is someone from your organization taking the time to contact the funder before you apply? Ask questions, see what else has been funded, talk about your project idea, etc? Taking the time to do those things can help make a difference.

- Simply put . . . did you hire anyone with any experience? If not, then perhaps it would be fair to give that person the tools and training they need in order to be successful. Just like any other job, you can't just toss someone new into that role and then say, "OK, go do your job and pass with flying colors".

Far too often, organizations see a grant writer as some sort of magic pill that will bring in money left and right. So before you get frustrated and choose to part ways with your grant writer, make sure you take the time to consider the items above. The person might be better than you think.

For more support with fundraising or strategic planning, be sure to visit us at www.midweststudiesgroup.com.