Top 11 Grant Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are important for a grant coordinator in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the duties of a successful grant coordinator. Certifications can be helpful in distinguishing an applicant from other potential candidates, as certifications attest to a level of expertise that is often required for positions in the field. Additionally, certifications may be required by employers looking to fill positions, so having one or more relevant certifications can make an applicant more attractive to potential employers. Finally, certifications provide validation of an individual’s professional development and can help open up new opportunities and career paths.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Grant Coordinators and explain how they can help advance a grant coordinator's career.

What are Grant Coordinator Certifications?

Grant coordinator certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in grant coordination. Grant coordinators are responsible for managing the process of applying for and securing funding from grants, which can be complex and time-consuming. Certification demonstrates the grant coordinator’s knowledge of best practices and commitment to the profession.

The certification process typically includes completing coursework, passing an exam, and demonstrating experience in grant coordination. The curriculum focuses on topics such as grant writing, budgeting, research methods, and program evaluation. By obtaining this certification, grant coordinators demonstrate their ability to manage the entire grant lifecycle – from identifying potential funders to managing expenditures during the project period.

Having a certified grant coordinator on staff can help organizations become more competitive when applying for grants by providing assurance that their proposal will be managed professionally and efficiently. It also helps ensure that organizations adhere to all applicable regulations when using grants funds. Finally, having a certified grant coordinator on staff can provide credibility with funders who are looking to support organizations that employ knowledgeable professionals in the field of grant coordination.

Pro Tip: When pursuing grant coordinator certification, research the different certifications available and decide which one best matches your professional goals. Make sure to review the requirements for each certification and determine if you meet them before investing in any training or courses.

Related: What does a Grant Coordinator do?

Top 11 Grant Coordinator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Grant Coordinators today.

1. Certified Grant Professional (GPC)

Certified Grant Professional (GPC) is a professional certification program for grant writers and grant professionals. It is the only certification program of its kind that is recognized and endorsed by the Grant Professionals Association (GPA). The GPC credential recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, skill, and experience in the field of grantsmanship.

The GPC certification process consists of three components: an application review, a written exam, and an oral interview. The application review includes verification of education, work experience, and other qualifications. The written exam tests applicants’ knowledge in areas such as proposal writing, research methods, project management, evaluation techniques, budgeting practices, and more. The oral interview assesses applicants’ ability to communicate effectively with funders.

To become certified as a GPC requires passing all three components of the certification process. Depending on individual circumstances such as educational background or prior work experience in grantsmanship, it can take anywhere from 3-6 months to complete the process.

The cost to become certified as a GPC varies depending on which type of membership you have with the GPA. For non-members it costs $495; for members it costs $395; for student members it costs $295; and for retired members it costs $195.

2. Certified Research Administrator (CRA)

A Certified Research Administrator (CRA) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have the knowledge and skills necessary to manage the administrative aspects of research projects. The CRA credential is offered by the Research Administrators Certification Council (RACC). To obtain this certification, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as research compliance, project management, financial management, and human resources.

It typically takes around two to three months to prepare for the exam and complete the application process. Applicants should review the RACC's Candidate Handbook for detailed information on how to apply for and take the exam.

The cost of obtaining a CRA credential varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of RACC. For non-members, there is an initial fee of $125 plus an additional $200 fee for taking the exam. For members, there is just a $200 fee for taking the exam.

3. Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP)

Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a level of excellence in the nonprofit sector. It is offered by the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance, a national alliance of colleges and universities dedicated to preparing students for careers in the nonprofit sector.

To become certified, an individual must demonstrate mastery of core competencies in areas such as fundraising, financial management, board governance, volunteer management, marketing and communications, and program evaluation. The certification process requires applicants to submit a portfolio of evidence that demonstrates their knowledge and experience in these areas.

The CNP certification process typically takes 6-9 months to complete. Applicants must first complete an application form and pay a nonrefundable fee of $125. Following this, applicants are required to take an online assessment that tests their knowledge of the core competencies associated with the CNP designation. After passing the assessment, applicants must then submit a portfolio that includes work samples demonstrating their mastery of the core competencies. This portfolio will be reviewed by a panel of experts who will decide whether or not an applicant has met all requirements for certification.

Once certified, CNPs are expected to adhere to ethical standards and stay current on best practices in the field through continuing education opportunities provided by the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance. The CNP designation is valid for three years and can be renewed upon successful completion of continuing education requirements.

4. Certified Proposal Writer (CPW)

Certified Proposal Writer (CPW) is a professional certification program designed to help individuals gain the skills necessary to write successful proposals. The CPW program provides training and guidance on proposal writing techniques, best practices, and strategies for success. It also provides resources for preparing and submitting winning proposals.

The CPW program consists of two components: an online course and an in-person workshop. The online course covers topics such as proposal structure, research methods, budgeting, editing, and more. It takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete the course. The in-person workshop is a one-day event that focuses on practical skills such as proposal writing techniques, effective communication strategies, and how to develop relationships with potential clients.

To obtain the CPW certification, applicants must successfully complete both the online course and in-person workshop. Applicants must also pass a written exam at the conclusion of the workshop in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining the CPW certification varies depending on where you take the course or workshop. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$1000 USD for both components combined.

5. Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE)

Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of fundraising professionals. The CFRE credential is offered by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and is recognized internationally as a mark of excellence in fundraising.

In order to become certified, individuals must have five years of paid, full-time professional fundraising experience within the past 10 years and pass a rigorous exam. The exam covers topics such as ethics and accountability; resource development; volunteerism; diversity, equity, and inclusion; legal compliance; financial management; strategic planning; donor relations and stewardship; public relations; research and evaluation; marketing and communications; technology in fundraising; data analytics/data-driven decision making.

The process to obtain the CFRE credential takes approximately six months from start to finish. First, individuals must complete an online application form with information about their work history and educational background. After submitting the application, applicants will be required to pay a fee of $395 USD for AFP members or $495 USD for non-members. Once approved for the exam, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the test date that best suits their needs. Finally, after passing the exam, applicants will receive their official CFRE certificate in 4-6 weeks.

6. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a professional certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is one of the most highly sought after certifications for project managers, and it is recognized and respected around the world.

The PMP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in leading and directing projects. To receive the certification, applicants must have at least 3 years of project management experience, 4500 hours leading and directing projects, 35 hours of formal project management education, and they must pass an exam. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as initiating a project, planning a project, executing a project, monitoring and controlling a project, closing a project, managing stakeholders’ expectations, managing risk and quality assurance.

It typically takes between 6 months to 1 year to prepare for the PMP exam depending on your prior experience in project management. During this time you should study for the exam using books or online courses from PMI or other providers. You should also practice taking sample exams to get familiar with the format of the test.

To apply for the PMP certification you will need to create an account with PMI and submit an application along with proof of your work experience and education. Once your application has been approved you can register for the exam which currently costs $405 for members of PMI or $555 for non-members. After passing the exam you will become certified as a Project Management Professional (PMP).

7. Financial Management Certification (FMC)

Financial Management Certification (FMC) is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage financial resources effectively. The FMC program is offered by the Financial Management Association International (FMAI) and is designed for professionals who are involved in financial management, budgeting, accounting, auditing, taxation, or other related fields.

The FMC certification requires successful completion of four courses which cover topics such as financial analysis, budgeting and forecasting, corporate finance, and investment management. Each course typically takes between two to three weeks to complete. Upon completion of the four courses, individuals must pass a comprehensive exam in order to receive their certification.

In order to get certified through the FMC program, individuals must first register with the FMAI and pay an application fee of $150 USD. After registration is complete, individuals can then purchase access to the online courses for $399 USD each or purchase all four courses at once for a discounted rate of $1199 USD.

Once all four courses are completed and the comprehensive exam has been passed successfully, individuals will receive their FMC certificate from the FMAI. This certificate is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed by completing additional coursework or passing another exam.

8. Advanced Grant Writing Certification (AGWC)

Advanced Grant Writing Certification (AGWC) is a professional certification program designed to equip grant writers with the knowledge and skills needed to develop successful grant proposals. This certification is offered by the Grant Professionals Association (GPA), a non-profit organization that promotes ethical standards and best practices in the field of grant writing.

The AGWC program consists of two parts: an online course and an assessment exam. The online course covers topics such as research, proposal writing, budgeting, evaluation, and reporting. It takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete the course and it can be taken at your own pace. After completing the course, you must pass an assessment exam which tests your knowledge of grant writing principles and practices.

To get certified, you must first become a member of GPA. Membership fees vary based on your profession and experience level but typically range from $75-$200 per year. Once you become a member, you can register for the AGWC program for an additional fee of $150-$250 depending on your membership level.

Once you have completed both parts of the program successfully, you will receive your Advanced Grant Writing Certification from GPA. The certification is valid for three years after which time you will need to renew it by taking continuing education courses or attending workshops related to grant writing.

9. National Grants Management Association Certification (NGMA-C)

The National Grants Management Association Certification (NGMA-C) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of grants management professionals. The certification is offered by the National Grants Management Association (NGMA), an organization dedicated to promoting best practices in grants management.

The NGMA-C certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in grants management, as well as their commitment to ethical standards. To become certified, applicants must have at least three years of full-time experience in grants management, pass a comprehensive exam, and agree to adhere to the NGMA Code of Ethics.

The NGMA-C certification process typically takes between six months and one year from start to finish. The first step is to submit an application that includes information about your education and work experience in grants management. After your application is approved, you will be eligible to take the NGMA-C exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as grant writing, budgeting, monitoring, reporting, compliance, and more. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your NGMA-C certification.

The cost of obtaining the NGMA-C certification varies depending on where you live and whether or not you are a member of the National Grants Management Association. Generally speaking, it costs around $500 for nonmembers and $400 for members.

10. Nonprofit Leadership and Management Certificate Program

The Nonprofit Leadership and Management Certificate Program is a comprehensive program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to effectively manage and lead nonprofit organizations. The program is offered by many universities and colleges across the United States.

The program usually takes around 12-18 months to complete, depending on the institution offering it. It consists of courses that cover topics such as fundraising, financial management, board governance, strategic planning, marketing, human resources management, and more.

To get the certificate, you must complete all required courses in the program with a passing grade. You may also be required to submit a portfolio or other evidence of your learning outcomes for review.

The cost of the Nonprofit Leadership and Management Certificate Program varies from institution to institution but typically ranges from $2,000-$5,000.

11. National Council of Nonprofits Certificate Program

The National Council of Nonprofits Certificate Program is a professional development program designed to provide nonprofit leaders with the skills, knowledge, and resources they need to manage their organizations effectively. The program consists of three courses: Foundations of Nonprofit Management, Financial Management for Nonprofits, and Human Resources for Nonprofits. Each course includes online modules, interactive activities, and self-assessments that help participants develop their understanding of nonprofit management.

The program takes approximately six months to complete. Participants are expected to complete all three courses within this timeframe in order to receive the certificate.

To get the certificate, participants must register for the program and pay a fee of $195 USD. Upon successful completion of all three courses, participants will receive a digital certificate from the National Council of Nonprofits.

Do You Really Need a Grant Coordinator Certificate?

Grant coordinators play a vital role in the success of many organizations, providing invaluable expertise and guidance to those seeking funding. As such, it is important for grant coordinators to have the right qualifications and experience in order to be successful. A Grant Coordinator Certificate can be an excellent way to demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to this field, as well as providing you with a valuable credential that may help you stand out from other job seekers.

However, whether or not you should pursue a Grant Coordinator Certificate depends largely on your individual circumstances. If you already have considerable experience in the field or are already working as a grant coordinator, then it may not be necessary; however, if you are new to the field or looking to advance your career, then obtaining a certificate may give you an advantage over other applicants. In addition, having a certificate can often lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries.

Ultimately, deciding whether or not you need a Grant Coordinator Certificate will depend on your own personal situation and goals. It is important to consider carefully what kind of benefits it could bring before making any decision. However, if you are serious about pursuing an exciting career in grant coordination and want to ensure that you have the qualifications that employers look for, then obtaining a certificate may provide just the edge that you need.

Related: Grant Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Grant Coordinator Certifications

1. What is a Grant Coordinator Certification?

Answer: A Grant Coordinator Certification is a professional certification designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of grant coordinators who work in the public and nonprofit sectors. This certification demonstrates to employers that an individual has the expertise necessary to effectively manage grants and grant-related activities.

2. How do I become certified as a Grant Coordinator?

Answer: To become certified as a Grant Coordinator, individuals must complete a combination of education and experience requirements, such as completing courses in grant writing, budgeting, evaluation, project management, and other related topics. They must also pass an examination administered by the Council for Certified Professional Grant Coordinators (CCPGC).

3. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified?

Answer: Yes, applicants must meet certain minimum requirements in order to be eligible for the certification exam. These requirements include having at least two years of professional experience in grant writing or management; completing at least 15 hours of approved coursework; obtaining letters of recommendation from two current or former supervisors; and passing the CCPGC’s comprehensive examination.

4. How long does it take to become certified?

Answer: The process typically takes 4-6 months from start to finish; however, this can vary depending on an individual’s previous experience and educational background. Additionally, some applicants may need more time if they are unable to complete all of the necessary coursework or if they have difficulty passing the exam.

5. How much does it cost to get certified?

Answer: The cost for taking the CCPGC's certification exam is $350 USD plus applicable taxes and fees; however, this fee may vary depending on your location. Additionally, some organizations may cover part or all of this cost as part of their employee development programs.