Application Guide
How to Apply for Contract Grant Writer
at Born Free USA
🏢 About Born Free USA
Born Free USA is a global wildlife protection nonprofit that stands out for its unwavering commitment to ending the exploitation of wild animals and promoting coexistence. The organization values inclusivity and work-life balance, making it an attractive place for mission-driven professionals who want to make a tangible impact on wildlife conservation.
About This Role
This contract Grant Writer role is critical for securing funding to support Born Free USA's wildlife protection initiatives. You will research and write proposals to diverse funders, translating the organization's mission into compelling cases for support, directly enabling their conservation work.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might start with reviewing a grants calendar to track upcoming deadlines, then researching new funding opportunities from foundations or government agencies. You'd spend several hours drafting or editing a proposal, collaborating with program staff to refine budgets and ensure alignment with funder guidelines, and finally submitting a polished application before the deadline.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Born Free USA Is Looking For
- Proven track record of securing grants from public, private, and corporate sources, ideally for wildlife or environmental causes.
- Exceptional research skills to identify aligned funding opportunities and tailor proposals to each funder's priorities.
- Strong writing and editing abilities to craft clear, persuasive narratives that highlight impact and align with Born Free USA's mission.
- Highly organized with experience managing grants calendars and meeting strict deadlines independently.
📝 Tips for Applying to Born Free USA
Highlight specific grants you've secured for wildlife or conservation nonprofits, including dollar amounts and funder names.
Tailor your cover letter to show understanding of Born Free USA's core issues (e.g., captive wildlife, fur trade) and how your work can advance their goals.
Include a sample grant proposal or writing portfolio that demonstrates your ability to tell a compelling story and meet funder guidelines.
Mention your experience working remotely and managing your own schedule, as this is a contract role with independence.
Research Born Free USA's current campaigns and recent grants to show your proactive interest in their work.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Express genuine passion for wildlife protection and alignment with Born Free USA's mission to end wild animal exploitation.", "Provide concrete examples of grants you've secured, emphasizing diversity of funding sources (public, private, corporate).", 'Demonstrate your ability to work collaboratively with program staff to develop budgets and ensure compliance.', 'Showcase your organizational skills and experience maintaining a grants calendar to meet deadlines.']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review Born Free USA's website to understand their key campaigns (e.g., captive wildlife, fur trade, wildlife trade) and recent news.
- → Look at their annual reports or financials to see funding sources and past grant successes.
- → Research their current grant partners or funders to understand the types of proposals they submit.
- → Familiarize yourself with their brand voice—how they communicate their mission—to align your writing style.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Sending a generic cover letter that doesn't reference Born Free USA's specific mission or campaigns.
- Overemphasizing general grant writing experience without highlighting wildlife or conservation wins.
- Ignoring the contract nature—failing to address your ability to work independently and manage your own time.
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!