How much do volunteer grant writing jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for volunteer grant writing in the United States is $66,107.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $73,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are volunteer grant writers?

Volunteer grant writers are individuals who offer their time and skills to help organizations, often nonprofits, secure funding through grant proposals. They research potential funding opportunities, write and edit grant applications, and collaborate with organization staff to gather necessary information. By volunteering, they help organizations access critical resources without incurring the costs of hiring professional grant writers, making it easier for nonprofits to achieve their missions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Volunteer Grant Writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Volunteer Grant Writer, you need strong research, writing, and analytical skills, often supported by experience in nonprofit or fundraising environments. Familiarity with grant databases, online application portals, and tools like Microsoft Word and Excel is advantageous. Attention to detail, perseverance, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for crafting compelling proposals, meeting deadlines, and securing funding to support organizational missions.

What are some common challenges volunteer grant writers face, and how can they overcome them?

Volunteer grant writers often encounter challenges such as limited access to organizational data, balancing grant writing with other commitments, and understanding complex grant requirements. To overcome these obstacles, it's helpful to establish clear communication with the nonprofit team, request access to necessary information early, and seek out training or mentorship opportunities. Collaborating closely with program staff ensures accurate proposals, while time management skills help volunteers meet deadlines effectively.

$52k-$86k Volunteer Grant Writing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Catholic League for the Poor of NIgeria, Inc.

Volunteer Grant Writer

Houston, TX · On-site

... late VOLUNTEER POSITION CLPN's Grant Writer is responsible for developing and writing grant ... This position requires someone who has excellent research, writing, and communication skills, is ...

Catholic League for the Poor of NIgeria, Inc.

Volunteer Grant Writer

Houston, TX · On-site

... late VOLUNTEER POSITION CLPN's Grant Writer is responsible for developing and writing grant ... This position requires someone who has excellent research, writing, and communication skills, is ...

Catholic League for the Poor of NIgeria, Inc.

Volunteer Grant Writer

Houston, TX · On-site +1

... late VOLUNTEER POSITION CLPN's Grant Writer is responsible for developing and writing grant ... This position requires someone who has excellent research, writing, and communication skills, is ...

Catholic League for the Poor of NIgeria, Inc.

Volunteer Grant Writer

Houston, TX · On-site +1

... late VOLUNTEER POSITION CLPN's Grant Writer is responsible for developing and writing grant ... This position requires someone who has excellent research, writing, and communication skills, is ...

The Aparecio Foundation, NFP

Volunteer Grant Writer

New York, NY

This is a unpaid Volunteer / Intern position. The Grant Writer's primary goals are to assist the Aparecio Foundation by completing and submitting application for private or federal grants available ...

The Aparecio Foundation, NFP

Volunteer Grant Writer

New York, NY

This is a unpaid Volunteer / Intern position. The Grant Writer's primary goals are to assist the Aparecio Foundation by completing and submitting application for private or federal grants available ...

Allina Health

$19.61 - $26.70/hr

No weekends The Grant Writing Intern expands the Foundation's capacity to pursue philanthropic ... Voluntary Benefits (vision, legal, critical illness) * Tuition Reimbursement or Continuing Medical ...

Allina Health

$19.61 - $26.70/hr

No weekends The Grant Writing Intern expands the Foundation's capacity to pursue philanthropic ... Voluntary Benefits (vision, legal, critical illness) * Tuition Reimbursement or Continuing Medical ...

Kim Joyce & Associates, LLC