Top 11 Grants Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a grants manager in the job market because they demonstrate an individual's knowledge and expertise in the field. Certifications show employers that the person has a strong understanding of the subject matter and is capable of managing grant programs. They also provide assurance to potential employers that the individual is up-to-date on industry trends, regulations, and best practices. Additionally, certifications can help a grants manager stand out from other applicants who may not have the same level of training or experience.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for Grants Managers and how they can help advance their career.

What are Grants Manager Certifications?

Grants Manager Certification is a professional credential that recognizes an individual's knowledge and experience in grants management. It is designed to help those working in the field of grants management develop and demonstrate their skills to advance their careers. The certification is offered by the Grant Professionals Association (GPA), which provides training, resources, and support for grant professionals.

The certification requires individuals to have five years of professional experience in grants management, complete a comprehensive exam, and adhere to ethical standards established by the GPA. Individuals who successfully earn the certification are recognized for their expertise in navigating complex issues related to the development, implementation, and management of successful grant programs.

For those seeking to advance their career or gain additional recognition within their field, Grants Manager Certification offers an opportunity to demonstrate knowledge and commitment to excellence. Earning this certification can open doors to new opportunities such as increased responsibility or higher salaries. Additionally, employers may view certified individuals as more reliable when selecting candidates for positions within grants management.

Pro Tip: Before applying for a grants manager certification, make sure to research the requirements and expectations of the program. Additionally, you should consider taking a course in grants management or obtaining other relevant certifications to help prepare for the program and increase your chances of success.

Related: What does a Grants Manager do?

Top 11 Grants Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Grants Managers today.

1. Certified Grants Management Professional (CGMP)

Certified Grants Management Professional (CGMP) is a professional certification program for individuals who manage grants. The CGMP credential is offered by the National Grants Management Association (NGMA). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of grant professionals in the field of grants management. The program is based on a comprehensive set of competencies that have been identified as essential for successful grants management.

The CGMP credential requires passing an examination administered by NGMA. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as grant writing, budgeting and compliance, project management, and evaluation. Candidates must demonstrate their knowledge of these topics in order to pass the exam.

In order to be eligible to take the exam, candidates must have at least two years of professional experience in grants management or a related field, or three years of academic study in a relevant field. Additionally, candidates must also complete an online application form and pay an application fee.

The exam typically takes between four and six hours to complete and costs $500 USD. Upon successful completion of the exam, candidates will receive their CGMP credential from NGMA.

2. Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM)

Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association of Government Accountants (AGA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in government financial management. The CGFM program consists of three exams that cover topics such as budgeting, accounting, auditing, financial reporting, and internal control.

It typically takes between six months and two years to complete the CGFM program. During this time, candidates must pass all three exams and meet the education and experience requirements set forth by the AGA. To qualify for the CGFM designation, applicants must have a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university; at least two years of full-time professional experience in government financial management; and successful completion of the three required examinations.

The cost for taking the CGFM exam varies depending on which exam you are taking and where you take it. Generally speaking, each exam costs around $200-$300. In addition to the cost of taking each exam, there is also an application fee of $75 for new applicants.

Once you have successfully completed all three exams and met all other requirements, you will be awarded your CGFM designation. This certification is valid for five years and can be renewed every five years by completing continuing education credits or retaking one or more exams.

3. Certified Nonprofit Accountant (CNA)

Certified Nonprofit Accountant (CNA) is a professional certification offered by the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB). It is designed for individuals who want to demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in the accounting field, specifically related to nonprofit organizations.

The CNA certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience in nonprofit accounting or related fields. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as budgeting, financial statement preparation, and internal controls. The exam fee is $250 and it takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to become certified, applicants must first submit an application form with proof of experience and payment of the required fees. Once approved, applicants will be given access to study materials and can then schedule their exam date. After passing the exam, they will receive their certificate from NACPB and may use the designation “Certified Nonprofit Accountant” after their name.

The cost of becoming a Certified Nonprofit Accountant includes the application fee ($50), exam fee ($250), and annual renewal fee ($50). The total cost is $350.

4. Certified Public Grant Writer (CPGW)

Certified Public Grant Writer (CPGW) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively write successful grant proposals. It is offered by the National Grants Management Association (NGMA).

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as research methods, proposal writing techniques, budgeting, and grant management. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

The cost of the CPGW certification exam is $350 for NGMA members and $450 for non-members. After passing the exam, applicants must submit a portfolio of their work in order to receive their certification. This portfolio should include at least three completed grant proposals that have been accepted or funded by a granting agency.

Once all requirements have been met, applicants will be awarded the CPGW certification. This certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by submitting additional portfolios of accepted or funded grants.

5. Grants Management Certificate Program (GMCP)

The Grants Management Certificate Program (GMCP) is a comprehensive training program designed to provide participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully manage grants. The GMCP is a self-paced, online program that takes approximately three months to complete.

The GMCP consists of five modules: Introduction to Grants Management, Understanding the Federal Grant Process, Developing and Managing Grants, Evaluating and Reporting on Grants, and Closing Out Grants. Each module consists of several lessons that cover topics such as developing grant proposals, managing budgets, monitoring performance, evaluating outcomes, writing reports, and closing out grants.

To get the GMCP certification, participants must complete all five modules within three months. Upon successful completion of the program requirements, participants will receive a certificate from the National Council for Science and Technology (NCST).

The cost of the GMCP is $395 USD. This fee includes access to all five modules as well as a one-year membership in NCST which provides additional resources such as webinars and workshops related to grants management.

6. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a professional certification program offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to recognize and validate the skills, knowledge, and experience of project management professionals. The PMP certification is globally recognized and demonstrates an individual’s ability to successfully manage projects.

It typically takes 3-6 months to get the PMP certification. To be eligible for the exam, you must have either a four-year degree or secondary diploma with at least three years of project management experience, 4500 hours leading and directing projects, and 35 hours of project management education.

The cost of the PMP exam varies depending on your location and membership status with PMI. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$600 USD for non-members, while members can expect to pay around $300-$500 USD. Additionally, there are other costs associated with taking the exam such as application fees and study materials.

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will become a certified PMP and be able to use this designation after your name. This will demonstrate your commitment to excellence in project management and help you stand out from other professionals in the field.

7. National Grants Management Association (NGMA) Certification

The National Grants Management Association (NGMA) is a professional organization that provides certification to individuals who demonstrate expertise in grants management. The NGMA certification program is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of individuals who manage grants and contracts, as well as those who provide support services related to grants and contracts.

The NGMA certification process consists of two parts: an online application and an exam. The online application requires applicants to provide information about their educational background, work experience, and professional references. After the application has been reviewed and approved, applicants must take the NGMA Certification Exam.

The NGMA Certification Exam is a three-hour, multiple-choice test that covers topics such as grant writing, grant budgeting, grant administration, grant compliance, and grant reporting. Applicants must score at least 70% on the exam in order to be certified. The exam is offered twice a year in April and October at various locations throughout the United States.

In order to get certified by the NGMA, applicants must pay a fee of $250 for members or $300 for non-members. This fee covers the cost of taking the exam as well as any associated materials needed for studying prior to taking it.

Once an applicant has passed the exam they will receive their official certificate from the NGMA within four weeks after passing it. The certificate will be valid for three years before needing renewal. Renewal can be done either by retaking the certification exam or by completing continuing education courses provided by the NGMA every year during their three-year period of certification validity.

8. Certified Research Administrator (CRA)

A Certified Research Administrator (CRA) is a professional designation for individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the management and administration of research programs. This certification is offered by the Research Administrators Certification Council (RACC). The CRA credential is designed to recognize and promote excellence in research administration.

To become certified, candidates must have at least five years of experience working in research administration and pass an exam administered by RACC. The exam consists of two parts: a written component that tests knowledge of research administration principles and practices, and a performance component that assesses the candidate’s ability to apply those principles and practices in specific situations.

The cost for the CRA certification process varies depending on the type of institution or organization that you are applying through. Generally, it costs between $500-$1,000 USD to complete the application process. It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete all requirements for certification once you have submitted your application.

9. Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE)

Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) is a professional certification program for individuals who are engaged in fundraising and philanthropic development. It is administered by the CFRE International, a non-profit organization that sets standards of excellence in the field of fundraising. The CFRE credential recognizes professionals who demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and commitment necessary to meet the highest standards of ethical and professional practice in fundraising.

To become certified, applicants must have at least five years of full-time paid experience in fundraising or philanthropic development and must pass an exam that covers topics such as donor relations, ethics, financial management, legal issues, volunteer management, and organizational planning. Applicants must also submit documentation verifying their experience and education level.

It typically takes between 6 months to 1 year to complete the entire process from application to certification. The cost for the exam is $350 for members of CFRE International or $450 for non-members.

10. National Council of Nonprofits Grant Writing Certificate Program

The National Council of Nonprofits Grant Writing Certificate Program is a comprehensive online training program designed to help nonprofit professionals learn the fundamentals of grant writing. The program consists of five self-paced courses that cover topics such as researching and understanding funders, developing a proposal narrative, budgeting, and understanding the grant review process. Each course includes video lectures, interactive activities, and downloadable resources. The program takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete and can be completed at your own pace.

To get the certificate, you must successfully complete all five courses within six months of enrolling in the program. Upon completion, you will receive your official certificate from the National Council of Nonprofits.

The cost for the National Council of Nonprofits Grant Writing Certificate Program is $199 USD.

11. American Grant Writers’ Association Certification Program

The American Grant Writers’ Association (AGWA) Certification Program is a professional credentialing program that recognizes grant writing professionals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge, skill, and experience in the field. The certification program provides an opportunity for grant writers to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to their craft while also providing employers with assurance that they are hiring qualified professionals.

In order to obtain AGWA certification, applicants must complete an online application and provide documentation of their work experience. Applicants must have at least two years of direct grant writing experience in order to be eligible for the certification program. Once the application has been approved, applicants must pass a written exam that covers topics such as grant writing fundamentals, research techniques, proposal development, and budgeting.

It typically takes up to six months from the time of application submission to receive AGWA certification. During this period, applicants will receive feedback on their exam performance and will be given an opportunity to review any areas where improvement is needed before being awarded certification.

The cost of obtaining AGWA certification varies depending on the type of membership chosen by the applicant. For non-members, the cost is $395; for members, it is $295; and for student members it is $195. All fees are non-refundable once payment has been made.

Once certified by AGWA, professionals may use the designation “Certified Grant Writer” after their name as well as access other benefits provided by AGWA such as discounts on conferences and workshops related to grant writing.

Do You Really Need a Grants Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question really depends on your individual situation. If you are looking to break into the grants management field, then a Grants Manager Certificate could be a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise. The certificate will give employers confidence that you have the necessary skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage grant programs and help them achieve their goals. Additionally, having a certificate can help you stand out from other applicants in the job market, as it shows that you are committed to learning more about grants management.

However, if you already have some experience with grants management or have been working in the field for some time, then a Grants Manager Certificate may not be necessary. Employers may still value your experience and skillset over any additional certifications or qualifications. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide if having a Grants Manager Certificate is worth the investment of time and money.

Related: Grants Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Grants Manager Certifications

1. What are the requirements to become a Grants Manager?

Answer: To become a Grants Manager, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, public administration or a related field. Additionally, many employers prefer applicants who have experience in grant writing and management.

2. How do I obtain a Grants Manager Certification?

Answer: You can obtain a Grants Manager Certification by completing professional development courses that are recognized by the Grant Professionals Certification Institute (GPCI). These courses will help you gain knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in the field of grants management.

3. What is included in the certification process?

Answer: The certification process includes passing an exam that covers topics such as budgeting, grant writing, evaluation and reporting, and compliance. Additionally, applicants must complete continuing education credits to maintain their credential.

4. How long does it take to get certified as a Grants Manager?

Answer: It typically takes around 6-12 months of study and preparation to become certified as a Grants Manager. It is important to remember that the amount of time it takes may vary depending on your individual background and experience level.

5. What is the cost associated with obtaining Grant Management Certification?

Answer: The cost of obtaining Grant Management Certification varies depending on which provider you choose for your training and education materials. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300-$1000 for tuition and course materials depending on the program you choose.