Writing Invoice Template

Free Grant Writer Invoice Template

Invoice nonprofits and organisations for grant writing, research, and reporting services. Get paid on time with Tidybill.

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What is a Grant Writer invoice?

A grant writer invoice documents fees for researching, writing, and submitting grant funding applications on behalf of non-profit organisations, charities, arts organisations, educational institutions, and social enterprises. Grant writers help clients identify suitable funders, develop compelling funding narratives, and meet the specific requirements of each funder's application process. Because grant writing work is not contingent on the grant being awarded (fee-on-success arrangements are generally considered unethical in this field), invoices document professional services rendered regardless of the outcome. Fees are typically charged as a flat project fee per application, a retainer covering multiple applications, or an hourly rate for research and strategy work.

What to include on a Grant Writer invoice

Common grant writer invoice line items

Service Typical Rate Unit
Grant Application Writing (major foundation) £500 - £2,500 per application
Grant Application Writing (small/local fund) £200 - £800 per application
Grant Research & Prospect List £200 - £800 per project
Grant Reporting (interim or final) £200 - £600 per report
Grant Writing Retainer (3+ apps/quarter) £600 - £2,000 per month
Strategy Consultation £60 - £120 per hour

How to invoice as a grant writer

Invoice per application on submission, regardless of the outcome. For retainer arrangements covering multiple applications and reporting, invoice monthly. Research and prospect identification work is invoiced separately as a distinct phase before writing begins. Avoid any success-fee arrangements as these violate grant-making ethics guidelines. Net 14 to Net 30 depending on client size and their invoicing cycle.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I charge a percentage of the grant amount if the application is successful?
No. Success-based or contingency fee arrangements for grant writing are widely considered unethical and many funders explicitly prohibit them. Your fee is for the professional service of writing and submitting the application, regardless of outcome. Charge a fair flat or hourly fee that reflects your expertise and the time required.
How do I price grant applications of different sizes?
Price based on the complexity of the application, the time required, and the funder's requirements — not as a percentage of the grant amount. A 10-page application to a major lottery funder takes significantly more time than a 2-page local community fund application. Assess each application individually and quote accordingly.
Should I charge for unsuccessful applications?
Yes. Grant writing is professional work regardless of outcome, and most applications are unsuccessful — competitive funders have award rates of 10-30%. Your client is paying for your expertise, research, and writing, not a guarantee of funding. Be clear about this expectation from the first conversation.
What ongoing services do grant writers offer after a grant is awarded?
Funded grants require interim and final reports documenting how the money was spent and the impact achieved. Many organisations hire grant writers to produce these reports, which is additional fee-earning work. This reporting work is invoiced per report and should be proposed to the client at the time of application.
How do I handle confidential information about a client's organisation in my invoicing?
Invoice professionally with a clear project reference. You do not need to include sensitive financial or organisational information on the invoice itself — the invoice records your service, not the grant content. Keep all client information confidential under your standard professional obligations.
Can I use this template for free?
Yes. Tidybill's free plan lets you create up to 5 invoices per month at no cost, with no credit card required. You can use the Grant Writer invoice template straight away after signing up.