Join the FREE, LIVE Training, "How to Make $10K/Months Writing Grants from Home in 2026 (No degree, No Experience, No 40-Hour Work Weeks)" on Wednesday, Jan. 21st from 4:30 pm - 6 pm EST. Register here: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar

Funded: $3.4 Million in Grants + $525K+ Earned | November 2025

In this episode of Funded, we break down what actually happened in grant writing in November 2025 using real data from grant writers inside our programs.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• How much grant funding was secured in one month
• How much freelance grant writers earned in their businesses
• What types of grants were awarded (foundation, state, federal)
• What offers and strategies helped grant writers earn income
• What this means if you’re considering grant writing or freelancing

  ABOUT HOLLY RUSTICK

  Grant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030.  Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship. 

  Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy,  past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella.

  CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICK

  Website: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/

  RESOURCES:
  
  Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox.  https://grantwritingandfunding.com/
  
  Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/
  
  Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship

  RATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCAST
  Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?

  This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!

  “Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!

  Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.

  Thanks for listening!

  Warmly,
  Holly Rustick
  Leading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

  ———————————————————————————
  This podcast episode was lovingly sponsored by GEMS!
  This podcast episode is lovingly sponsored by Grant Easy Management Software (GEMS). Break Up with Your Spreadsheet – Get GEMS Grant Easy Management Software and NEVER MISS A DEADLINE AGAIN! Book YOUR FREE demo now! Click here: https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/gems 
  ———————————————————————————

Join the FREE, LIVE Training, "How to Make $10K/Months Writing Grants from Home in 2026 (No degree, No Experience, No 40-Hour Work Weeks)" on Wednesday, Jan. 21st from 4:30 pm - 6 pm EST. Register here: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar

In this episode, Holly breaks down the top 11 trends freelance grant writers must lean into in 2026. From funder relationships and AI tools to flexibility, movement-centered grant writing, trigger words, diversified funding, and stepping into thought leadership — this is your roadmap for staying ahead in the rapidly shifting grant writing world.

You’ll learn:

• Why funder relationships matter more than ever
• How to position your freelance business for growth
• The role of AI in modern grant writing
• How to align your language with funders
• Why flexibility is essential in 2026
• The power of becoming movement-driven
• How trainings help you expand influence + revenue
• And so much more

If you want to elevate your grant writing in 2026, this is the episode to bookmark.

Resources Mentioned:

• Free Guide: Banned & Trigger Words in Federal Grant Writing
   https://grantwritingandfunding.com/banned-and-trigger-words-in-federal-grant-writing-in-the-trump-administration-2-0/

ABOUT HOLLY RUSTICK

Grant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030.  Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship.  

Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy,  past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella. 

CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICK 

Website: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/ 

RESOURCES:

Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox.  https://grantwritingandfunding.com/

Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/

Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship 

RATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCAST

Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?

This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!

“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.

Thanks for listening!

Warmly,

Holly Rustick

Leading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

———————————————————————————

This podcast episode was lovingly sponsored by GEMS!

This podcast episode is lovingly sponsored by Grant Easy Management Software (GEMS). Break Up with Your Spreadsheet – Get GEMS Grant Easy Management Software and NEVER MISS A DEADLINE AGAIN! Book YOUR FREE demo now! Click here: https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/gems 

———————————————————————————

Join the FREE, LIVE Training, "How to Make $10K/Months Writing Grants from Home in 2026 (No degree, No Experience, No 40-Hour Work Weeks)" on Wednesday, Jan. 21st from 4:30 pm - 6 pm EST. Register here: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar

In this episode, Holly Rustick from Grant Writing and Funding interviews Fielding Jezreel, CEO of Jezreel Consulting, about the evolving landscape of federal grants. They discuss the challenges and strategies for nonprofits in adapting to new federal grant requirements, the importance of preparation, and the role of DEI in grant writing. Fielding shares insights on how organizations can position themselves for future opportunities and the significance of training in federal grant writing.

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Fielding Jezreel is an accomplished federal grants professional who provides federal grant readiness and grant writing services to St. Louis area nonprofit organizations and local government agencies. Across the country, she trains grant consultants to assess and build their clients' federal grant readiness. 

Fielding has a strong reputation for crafting compelling federal grant proposals and supporting organizations pursuing their first federal grant award. She has secured over $85 million with clients focusing on providing underserved St. Louis communities with high-quality and equitable health, behavioral health, education, and economic development.

CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST

Federal Grants Accelerator: https://www.federalgrantsaccelerator.com/ 

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/fieldingjezreel 

Website: http://jezreelconsulting.com/

OTHER RESOURCES:

• Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox.  https://grantwritingandfunding.com/
• Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/
• Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship 

RATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCAST

Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?

This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!

“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.

Thanks for listening!

Warmly,

Holly Rustick

Leading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

———————————————————————————

This podcast episode was lovingly sponsored by GEMS!

This podcast episode is lovingly sponsored by Grant Easy Management Software (GEMS). Break Up with Your Spreadsheet – Get GEMS Grant Easy Management Software and NEVER MISS A DEADLINE AGAIN! Book YOUR FREE demo now! Click here: https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/gems 

———————————————————————————

Join the FREE, LIVE Training, "How to Make $10K/Months Writing Grants from Home in 2026 (No degree, No Experience, No 40-Hour Work Weeks)" on Wednesday, Jan. 21st from 4:30 pm - 6 pm EST. Register here: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar

In this episode of the Grant Writing and Funding Podcast, host Holly Rustic shares an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at a recent team retreat in Madrid, Spain, that cost $20,000. Holly discusses the strategic decisions, deep work, and innovative approaches taken during the retreat, which have already shifted the trajectory of their grant writing and funding movement. Learn about the intense planning, the creation of new curriculum pathways, and the alignment that will support their goal of securing $1 billion in grants and generating $30 million for grant writing businesses by 2030. Holly also shares insights on the importance of investing in your mission, stepping into leadership, and building a supportive, results-driven community.

ABOUT HOLLY RUSTICK

Grant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030.  Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship.  

Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy,  past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella. 

CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICK 

Website: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/ 

RESOURCES:

• 
  Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox.  https://grantwritingandfunding.com/
• Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/
• Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship 

RATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCAST

Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?

This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!

“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.

Thanks for listening!

Warmly,

Holly Rustick

Leading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

———————————————————————————

This podcast episode was lovingly sponsored by GEMS!

This podcast episode is lovingly sponsored by Grant Easy Management Software (GEMS). Break Up with Your Spreadsheet – Get GEMS Grant Easy Management Software and NEVER MISS A DEADLINE AGAIN! Book YOUR FREE demo now! Click here: https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/gems 

———————————————————————————

Join the FREE, LIVE Training, "How to Make $10K/Months Writing Grants from Home in 2026 (No degree, No Experience, No 40-Hour Work Weeks)" on Wednesday, Jan. 21st from 4:30 pm - 6 pm EST. Register here: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar

In this new subseries 'Funded.' Learn about the massive movement to secure $1 billion in grants and $30 million for grant writing businesses by 2030. Holly shares success stories, real data, and insights into what's working in grant writing and funding today. Discover practical tips, how to navigate economic and political shifts, and the innovative strategies of their signature programs. Plus, hear from real students about their achievements and experiences in the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship.

ABOUT HOLLY RUSTICK

Grant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030.  Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship.  

Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy,  past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella. 

CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICK 

Website: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/ 

RESOURCES:

Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox.  https://grantwritingandfunding.com/

Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/

Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship 

RATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCAST

Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?

This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!

“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.

Thanks for listening!

Warmly,

Holly Rustick

Leading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

———————————————————————————

This podcast episode was lovingly sponsored by GEMS!

This podcast episode is lovingly sponsored by Grant Easy Management Software (GEMS). Break Up with Your Spreadsheet – Get GEMS Grant Easy Management Software and NEVER MISS A DEADLINE AGAIN! Book YOUR FREE demo now! Click here: https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/gems 

———————————————————————————

Join the FREE, LIVE Training, "How to Make $10K/Months Writing Grants from Home in 2026 (No degree, No Experience, No 40-Hour Work Weeks)" on Wednesday, Jan. 21st from 4:30 pm - 6 pm EST. Register here: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar

Welcome to the Grant Writing & Funding Podcast! In this episode, host Holly Rustick sits down with Clare Bresnahan English, Senior Director of the Workplace Innovation Now (WIN) Challenge at the Aspen Institute, to break down a massive $60 million grant opportunity for U.S. nonprofits.

Tune in today to listen to this podcast.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE WIN CHALLENGE GRANT

• Total Grant Monies: $60 Million ($20 million for each Opportunity)
• How Many Application Opportunities: 3 (Culture and Practices, AI, and Narratives). Yes, you can submit 3 different applications if your nonprofit has programs for all.
• Eligibility: 501c(3) Nonprofit in the US or Territories (they need to be a lead at least. If you are a different 501 or business, you need a 501c3 who will be the lead)
• Initial Registration Due Date: Dec. 11th at 5 pm EST. This is a quick registration ONLY and just takes a few minutes.
• Full Grant Due Date: Each Opportunity has a different due date in January 2026, but only for folks who registered.
• What the Fund is looking for: Innovative ways to change the workplace culture & practices, making AI more accessible for women in the workplace, and reshaping the narrative for women in the workplace (not us making it worse, NY Times!)
• More Info: This competition is part of Melinda French Gates’ broader $150 million commitment to tackle the biggest barriers and maximize the opportunities available in quickly evolving workplaces. 
• Why? Because when women succeed, it benefits all society. Melinda French Gates recently released a short video announcing the effort, emphasizing "When women get what they need to succeed, we all win.”
• WIN Challenge Website: https://www.winchallenge.org/

Listen to the full podcast to get more information about this grant opportunity if your nonprofit, or your clients, may be eligible.

Extra notes: 

• Even if your grant doesn’t get awarded, they are getting more investors on board and will share the entire list of ideas for other funders to invest.
• Even if you aren’t sure if you will apply, REGISTER by Dec. 11th, 2025 at 5 pm EST to be considered.

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Clare Bresnahan English is the Senior Director, Workplace Innovation Now (WIN) Challenge. In this role, she advances innovative, high impact, actionable solutions that lower barriers for women in the workplace, and help women thrive to the benefit of themselves, their families, the economy, and the community at large. Clare has uplifted women’s leadership across government, media, civil society, and the private sector for over 15 years. Before joining The Aspen Institute, she served as CEO for New Leaders Council, a national nonprofit connecting and training local leaders representing a diversity of identities, industries, and issue areas. 

As the former Executive Director She Should Run, Clare helped spark a national movement that supports thousands of women and girls in owning their leadership path and to run for office. A 40 Under 40 Honoree with the Center for Leadership Excellence, Clare’s impact has been recognized as a Fellow with the American Council of Young Political Leaders, New Profit Civic Lab, and Aspen Ideas Festival. She serves on the Board of the Washington English Center, which provides English literacy and workforce development trainings for adult immigrants and refugees. She graduated magna cum laude with a Masters in Public Management from Johns Hopkins University and earned a B.A. in Communications, Law, Economics, and Government from American University.

OTHER RESOURCES:

• Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox.  https://grantwritingandfunding.com/
• Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/
• Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship 

RATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCAST

Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?

This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!

“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.

Thanks for listening!

Warmly,

Holly Rustick

Leading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

———————————————————————————

This podcast episode was lovingly sponsored by GEMS!

This podcast episode is lovingly sponsored by Grant Easy Management Software (GEMS). Break Up with Your Spreadsheet – Get GEMS Grant Easy Management Software and NEVER MISS A DEADLINE AGAIN! Book YOUR FREE demo now! Click here: https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/gems 

———————————————————————————

Join the FREE, LIVE Training, "How to Make $10K/Months Writing Grants from Home in 2026 (No degree, No Experience, No 40-Hour Work Weeks)" on Wednesday, Jan. 21st from 4:30 pm - 6 pm EST. Register here: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar

Join host Holly Rustick on the Grant Writing and Funding Podcast as she delves into the essential topic of setting boundaries as a freelance grant writer. Learn how to professionally handle client requests that fall outside the scope of work while maintaining good relationships and avoiding burnout. Holly shares practical advice, including key phrases and strategies, to ensure that freelance grant writers can protect their time, deliver quality work, and run a sustainable business.

Tune in today to listen to this podcast.

ABOUT HOLLY RUSTICK

Grant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030.  Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship.  

Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy,  past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella. 

CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICK 

Website: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/ 

RESOURCES:

• Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox.  https://grantwritingandfunding.com/
• Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/
• Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship 

RATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCAST

Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?

This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!

“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.

Thanks for listening!

Warmly,

Holly Rustick

Leading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

———————————————————————————

This podcast episode was lovingly sponsored by GEMS!

This podcast episode is lovingly sponsored by Grant Easy Management Software (GEMS). Break Up with Your Spreadsheet – Get GEMS Grant Easy Management Software and NEVER MISS A DEADLINE AGAIN! Book YOUR FREE demo now! Click here: https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/gems 

———————————————————————————

Join the FREE, LIVE Training, "How to Make $10K/Months Writing Grants from Home in 2026 (No degree, No Experience, No 40-Hour Work Weeks)" on Wednesday, Jan. 21st from 4:30 pm - 6 pm EST. Register here: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar

Welcome to the Grant Writing & Funding Podcast. In this episode, Holly Rustick explores the importance of money mindset in the nonprofit and freelance grant writing sectors. She shares her personal experiences growing up in poverty and how it influenced her career and pricing strategies

YOU'LL LEARN
-How to reframe your worth as a grant writer
-The difference between charging for time vs. transformation
-Why undercharging hurts both you and your clients
-How to use value-based pricing in your freelance business
-Real success stories from grant writers who tripled their income

This is the episode every grant writer needs to hear — especially if you’ve ever felt guilty about charging what you’re worth.

Tune in today to listen to this podcast.

ABOUT HOLLY RUSTICK

Grant Writing & Funding (GWF) has a Global Movement to Secure $1 Billion in Grant Funding for Good and $30 Million in Grant Writing Businesses by 2030.  Holly Rustick, CEO of GWF, is leading the movement; a world-renowned grant writer with 20+ years of experience, bestselling author, and business coach for new and seasoned grant writers to replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship.  

Rustick is the host of the top grant writing podcast “Grant Writing & Funding” and the author of the Bestselling book, The Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing. With an MA in International Political Economy,  past-president of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, serving on numerous boards of directors, Holly is also an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella. 

CONNECT WITH HOLLY RUSTICK 

Website: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/ 

RESOURCES:

• Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox.  https://grantwritingandfunding.com/
• Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/
• Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship 

RATE, REVIEW, & FOLLOW THE PODCAST

Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?

This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!

“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.

Thanks for listening!

Warmly,

Holly Rustick

Leading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

———————————————————————————

This podcast episode was lovingly sponsored by GEMS!

This podcast episode is lovingly sponsored by Grant Easy Management Software (GEMS). Break Up with Your Spreadsheet – Get GEMS Grant Easy Management Software and NEVER MISS A DEADLINE AGAIN! Book YOUR FREE demo now! Click here: https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/gems 

———————————————————————————

Join the FREE, LIVE Training, "How to Make $10K/Months Writing Grants from Home in 2026 (No degree, No Experience, No 40-Hour Work Weeks)" on Wednesday, Jan. 21st from 4:30 pm - 6 pm EST. Register here: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar

Want to land invite-only grants and corporate sponsorships? Hear how Surge for Water built trust-based relationships that unlocked over $1M in funding. Founder Shilpa Alva shares actionable strategies for grant writers and nonprofit leaders to move from cold outreach to long-term funder partnerships, boost corporate support, and secure sustainable funding for water access, menstrual health, and community-led solutions. 

Most grant writers never get access to invite-only funding…but Surge for Water cracked the code. In this episode, founder shares how building trust and transparency helped the nonprofit unlock over $1.7 million in foundation and corporate funding. You’ll learn how relationship-building, cultural sensitivity, and community ownership can position your nonprofit for exclusive funder invitations — not just open calls.

Key Takeaways:
-How Surge for Water earned funder trust before ever applying
-Turning reports into relationship tools
-Steps to get noticed by invite-only grant funders and corporate sponsors
-How community ownership fuels sustainable solutions

Connect with Surge for Water
https://surgeforwater.org/

RESOURCES:

Weekly Newsletter: “Write Grants. Get Paid” - Get thought leadership on grant and freelance grant writing strategies every week in your inbox.  https://grantwritingandfunding.com/

Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/

Grant Professional Mentorship: Double your Monthly Revenue with an Income Stream Outside of Grant Writing. https://grantwritingandfunding.com/mentorship 

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

Favor, please?

If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?

This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!

“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!

Thanks for listening!

Warmly,
Holly Rustick
Leading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

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This podcast episode was lovingly sponsored by GEMS!
This podcast episode is lovingly sponsored by Grant Easy Management Software (GEMS). Break Up with Your Spreadsheet – Get GEMS Grant Easy Management Software and NEVER MISS A DEADLINE AGAIN! Book YOUR FREE demo now! Click here: https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/gems 
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Join the FREE, LIVE Training, "How to Make $10K/Months Writing Grants from Home in 2026 (No degree, No Experience, No 40-Hour Work Weeks)" on Wednesday, Jan. 21st from 4:30 pm - 6 pm EST. Register here: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/academy-webinar

In this episode, Holly Rustick interviews Marivi V. Bryant, founder of Home Agency, discussing the critical role of marketing and storytelling for nonprofits. They explore how effective branding and a polished online presence can enhance a nonprofit's credibility and attract funding. 

Marivi emphasizes the importance of utilizing social media, creating engaging content, and leveraging available resources, including board members and interns, to build a strategic roadmap for success. The conversation highlights practical steps nonprofits can take to improve their marketing efforts and effectively communicate their mission.

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Marivi Bryant is the Founder and President of HOME Agency, a people-first marketing, branding, and communications firm with clients and team members nationwide. With nearly 25 years of experience across in-house and agency leadership, she built HOME on a simple belief: that marketing done with purpose and humanity can create measurable impact.

Under her leadership, HOME partners with mission-driven organizations, consumer brands, and cultural institutions to deliver strategy, creative, and storytelling that connect brands to people in meaningful ways. Her experience includes guiding marketing strategy, brand development, and community engagement for organizations such as the Phoenix Suns, NASCAR Foundation, State Farm, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and national brands including New Balance, Giant Foods, and Girl Scouts of America.

A native of Venezuela, Marivi came to the United States alone at age 13 to pursue tennis, later earning a Division I scholarship. That early experience taught her perseverance and independence, qualities that continue to shape her leadership today. She is passionate about community building and arts advocacy, serving on the boards of Slow Burn Theatre Company in Fort Lauderdale and Old Town Playhouse in Traverse City. Her past service includes leadership roles with the Blumenthal Center for the Performing Arts, Levine Museum of the New South, Arena Stage, and The Salvation Army of South Florida.

In 2025, she launched the Values in Action Award, a $100,000 pro bono initiative supporting non-profits through strategic marketing and storytelling. The program reflects her commitment to using business as a force for good and creating opportunities for collaboration, growth, and lasting impact.

Marivi continues to champion creativity, equity, and connection in both her professional and personal life. She lives in Michigan with her husband, Mathew, and their children, Logan and Lyla.

CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST

• wearehomeagency.com

LINKS MENTIONED

• Freelance Grant Writer Academy

RESOURCES:

• Get Freelance Grant Writing Spicy Tips when you Join the weekly newsletter series “Write Grants. Get Paid”  https://grantwritingandfunding.com/
• Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home.
• https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts
Favor, please? If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?

This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!

“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! 

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Grant Writing & Funding podcast to get grant and freelance grant writing proven strategies and conversations in your podcast player every single week.

Thanks for listening!

Warmly,
Holly Rustick
Leading the $1 Billion for Good Movement: By 2030, aspiring and seasoned grant writers inside the Freelance Grant Writer Academy & Grant Professional Mentorship will 1) WIN $1 Billion in Grants, and 2) MAKE $30 Million in their Grant Writing Businesses. We are on our way already.

———————————————————————————

This podcast episode was lovingly sponsored by GEMS!
This podcast episode is lovingly sponsored by Grant Easy Management Software (GEMS). Break Up with Your Spreadsheet – Get GEMS Grant Easy Management Software and NEVER MISS A DEADLINE AGAIN! Book YOUR FREE demo now! Click here: https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/gems 
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