We get it. As a nonprofit leader, you often have to make tough decisions about how to allocate resources, and hiring a grant writer is no exception. Sometimes, the idea of paying a grant writer only if they win the grant seems like a practical solution—it feels like a way to reduce risk while incentivizing success.

But here’s the reality: paying grant writers on commission isn’t just a questionable practice; it’s widely regarded as unethical, and for good reason.

Ethical Guidelines in Grant Writing

First, it’s important to understand that reputable organizations, including the Grant Professionals Association, have clear ethical guidelines against commission-based pay for grant writers. These guidelines exist to protect the integrity of the grant-seeking process.

Grant professional’s association
"Members shall not accept or pay a finder’s fee, commission, or percentage compensation based on grants and shall take care to discourage their organizations from making such payments."

When a grant writer’s compensation is tied directly to the award amount, it can create a conflict of interest. The focus may shift from crafting a proposal that aligns with the funder’s priorities to simply chasing dollars, which can harm your organization’s credibility and relationship with funders.

The Grant Writing Process is About More Than Outcomes

It’s also worth noting that the outcome of a grant application is influenced by a host of factors that go far beyond the grant writer’s control. Funders often make decisions based on internal priorities, current funding cycles, or even sheer competition from other applicants. A well-written proposal is a key piece of the puzzle, but it’s not the only determinant of success. Holding a grant writer financially accountable for factors outside their control simply isn’t fair.

Most Funders Don’t Support Commission-Based Pay

Funders themselves also discourage the practice of paying grant writers on commission. Many grant guidelines explicitly prohibit using awarded funds to cover costs incurred before the grant was received. If an organization were to use part of the grant to pay a commission-based fee, it could be in violation of the funder’s rules, potentially jeopardizing the funding and the organization’s reputation.

person with brown hair at a typing on a laptop at a desk with a plant, a pile of books, and a calendar on the wall

Why Fair Compensation Matters

Fair compensation for professional work is a fundamental principle in any industry, and grant writing is no different. Grant writers provide a specialized service that requires time, expertise, and careful strategy. They deserve to be paid for the work they put in, regardless of whether the grant is awarded.

Just as you wouldn’t pay your accountant only if you get a tax refund or your personal trainer only if you reach your weight-loss goal, grant writers shouldn’t be compensated based solely on outcomes.

Invest in Ethical and Effective Practices

Ultimately, paying grant writers on commission devalues the work they do and creates unnecessary risks for your organization. Instead, your organization should approach grant writing as an investment in its fundraising strategy. By paying a fair fee for services rendered, you not only respect the professionalism of your grant writer but also build a foundation for a stronger, more sustainable relationship with funders.

If you’re serious about securing funding and want to maintain ethical practices, compensating your grant writer appropriately is a critical step. It ensures that the process is fair, transparent, and aligned with the standards of the nonprofit sector.

After all, integrity is just as important as the impact you’re working so hard to create.

We Make the Most of Your Grants Investment

We offer a variety of solutions beyond simply writing your grant. By partnering with us, your nonprofit will benefit from our suite of grant services designed to create a solid grants program.

A Grant Readiness Audit to assess your organization’s preparedness and identify areas for improvement.

A Comprehensive Grant Proposal Toolkit featuring essential resources like a master grant template, needs assessments, program narratives, budget worksheets, and evaluation frameworks to streamline future applications.
Tailored Grant Prospect Research using leading databases and networks to uncover and rank funding opportunities that align with your mission and priorities.
A well-organized and detailed Grant Recommendations Spreadsheet or seamless integration into your existing grant tracking software.
An Annual Grants Calendar to keep your team on track with deadlines and submissions throughout the year.
Monthly Strategy Meetings to keep your grant-seeking efforts focused, collaborative, and aligned with organizational goals.
Foundation Stewardship Profiles for executive leadership to strengthen relationships with key funders.
Outcome and Impact Narratives crafted to elevate your grant reporting, fundraising appeals, and marketing materials.