Top 10 Proposal Writer Certifications

Certifications for proposal writers are important in the job market as they provide potential employers with evidence of a candidate’s skills, knowledge, and expertise. Having a certification shows that the individual has gone through training and has been tested on their ability to write effective and persuasive proposals. A certification also shows that the individual is dedicated to their profession and is committed to staying up-to-date on industry trends and techniques. In addition, certifications demonstrate that the individual has a certain level of competence in their field, which can give them an edge over other applicants.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications available for Proposal Writers and explain how they can help to further a proposal writer's career.

What are Proposal Writer Certifications?

Proposal Writer Certification is a credential awarded by professional organizations that recognizes the expertise of individuals in writing proposals for various projects. This certification demonstrates to employers and clients that the individual has a comprehensive understanding of the proposal process, from researching to writing and submitting the final product. Proposal Writer Certification can help those seeking employment in proposal writing by providing evidence of expertise and credibility to potential employers or clients. It can also help current professionals stay up-to-date on industry trends, best practices, and new tools while increasing their marketability as a professional. Additionally, certified proposal writers may have access to exclusive job postings or receive discounts on related services or products.

Pro Tip: When seeking proposal writer certification, look for programs that provide instruction in the latest proposal writing techniques and tools, as well as the ability to practice and refine your skills. Certification can lead to increased job opportunities and higher pay in the field of proposal writing.

Related: What does a Proposal Writer do?

Top 10 Proposal Writer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Proposal Writers today.

1. Certified Proposal Professional (CPP)

Certified Proposal Professional (CPP) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who possess the skills and knowledge necessary to develop successful proposals. It is awarded by the Association of Proposal Management Professionals (APMP).

In order to become certified, applicants must pass an exam which covers topics such as proposal strategy, writing, editing, layout and design, production and compliance. The exam typically takes four hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CPP certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience in proposal management or related fields. Additionally, they must have completed either the APMP Foundation Level course or its equivalent.

The cost of the CPP certification varies depending on whether you are an APMP member or non-member. For members, it costs $450 USD; for non-members it costs $650 USD.

2. Certified Professional Technical Writer (CPTW)

Certified Professional Technical Writer (CPTW) is a professional certification program offered by the Society for Technical Communication (STC). It is designed to recognize and reward technical writers who have achieved a high level of proficiency in their field. The CPTW designation is an indication that a writer has demonstrated competency in the areas of writing, editing, and project management.

The CPTW program requires applicants to pass two exams: the Core Exam and the Specialization Exam. The Core Exam covers topics such as grammar, punctuation, style, document design, and project management. The Specialization Exam focuses on specific areas of technical writing such as software documentation or medical writing.

It usually takes between 6-12 months to complete the CPTW program. Applicants must first register with STC and pay a registration fee of $100 USD before taking either exam. After registering, applicants can take either exam at any time during the year; however, they must complete both exams within one year of registering in order to be eligible for certification.

Once applicants have passed both exams they will receive their official CPTW certificate from STC along with a digital badge to display on their website or social media profiles. In addition to this recognition, certified technical writers may also receive job opportunities or promotions due to their new credential.

The total cost of obtaining the CPTW designation depends on how long it takes you to prepare for and pass both exams; however, it typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

3. Certified Grant Writer (CGW)

A Certified Grant Writer (CGW) is a professional who specializes in writing grant applications for organizations and businesses. The CGW designation is offered by the Grant Professionals Certification Institute (GPCI). To become certified, an individual must demonstrate knowledge of the grant application process, including research, budgeting, and writing techniques.

It typically takes six months to one year to complete the certification process. During this time, applicants must complete a series of courses and exams that cover topics such as grant proposal development, program design and implementation, and evaluation. After completing the coursework and passing the exams, applicants are eligible to take the CGW certification exam.

The cost of becoming a CGW varies depending on the number of courses taken and whether or not you choose to pursue additional certifications. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$1000 USD to become certified.

In addition to taking courses and passing exams, applicants must also have at least two years of professional experience in grant writing or related fields before they can apply for certification.

4. Certified Proposal Manager (CPM)

Certified Proposal Manager (CPM) is a certification program offered by the Association of Proposal Management Professionals (APMP). It is designed to recognize and validate the skills and knowledge of proposal management professionals. The CPM credential demonstrates that an individual has achieved a level of competency in proposal management that is recognized and respected by employers, customers, and peers.

The CPM credential requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as proposal strategy, planning and organization, writing and editing, cost estimating, project management, graphics design, compliance review, customer relations, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that are based on real-world scenarios.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the CPM exam. During this time period it is important to study the APMP Body of Knowledge (BOK) which covers all topics included in the exam. Additionally, self-study materials such as practice tests can be purchased from APMP or other sources.

To receive the CPM credential you must first apply for membership with APMP and then register for the exam. The cost for both membership and registration is $395 USD. Once registered you will have 12 months to take the exam at an approved testing center near you. After passing the exam you will receive your CPM certificate in 4-6 weeks.

5. Certified Business Writing Specialist (CBWS)

Certified Business Writing Specialist (CBWS) is a professional certification program offered by the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches (PARW/CC). The CBWS certification is designed to recognize and reward individuals who have demonstrated excellence in business writing.

The CBWS certification requires applicants to complete a rigorous application process, which includes submitting a portfolio of their business writing work, passing an online exam, and completing a comprehensive written assignment. The entire process typically takes between 4-6 weeks to complete.

To become a Certified Business Writing Specialist, applicants must first register for the program on the PARW/CC website. Registration fees vary depending on whether you are an existing member or non-member of PARW/CC. If you are an existing member, registration costs $299 USD; if you are not already a member, registration costs $349 USD.

Once registered, applicants will receive access to the CBWS online exam portal and can begin preparing for the exam at their own pace. The exam consists of 50 multiple choice questions and covers topics such as grammar, punctuation, syntax, style guides, and more. Once completed with a score of 80% or higher, applicants must submit their portfolio and written assignment for review by the CBWS Certification Committee.

Upon successful completion of all components of the application process, applicants will be awarded their Certified Business Writing Specialist credential from PARW/CC and can begin using it to demonstrate their expertise in business writing to potential employers or clients.

6. Certified Federal Contractor (CFC)

Certified Federal Contractor (CFC) is a designation given to companies that have met certain criteria and passed an extensive review process. It is awarded by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and provides businesses with access to federal contracts, grants, and other opportunities.

The CFC designation takes approximately six months to obtain after submitting an application and providing supporting documents. To be eligible for the CFC designation, a business must meet the following requirements:

• Have been in business for at least two years
• Have a good credit rating
• Be registered with the System for Award Management (SAM)
• Have a minimum of three employees
• Meet all applicable federal regulations
• Demonstrate financial stability
• Provide proof of insurance coverage
• Provide references from customers or clients who have used their services in the past

The cost of obtaining a CFC varies depending on the size of your business and the complexity of your application. Generally, it costs between $500-$2,000 to apply for certification.

7. Certified Government Contracting Officer Representative (COOR)

A Certified Government Contracting Officer Representative (COOR) is an individual who has been certified by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to represent a government contracting officer in the performance of their duties. The COOR serves as a bridge between the government and small businesses, helping to ensure that contracts are awarded fairly and equitably to qualified small businesses.

In order to become a COOR, an individual must have at least three years of experience in federal procurement or related fields such as accounting, law, engineering, or contract management. Additionally, they must pass an exam administered by the SBA in order to receive certification.

The exam consists of two parts: a multiple-choice section and an essay section. The multiple-choice section covers topics such as procurement regulations, contract administration, and business development; while the essay section tests knowledge of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). It typically takes about four hours to complete both sections of the exam.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on whether you are taking it online or in person. Online exams cost $125 per person; while in-person exams cost $225 per person. In addition to these fees, there may be additional costs associated with taking the exam such as travel expenses or registration fees.

Once you have passed the exam and received your certification, you will be able to serve as a COOR for any government contracting officer who needs assistance with their duties. As a COOR you will help ensure that contracts are awarded fairly and equitably to qualified small businesses which can help stimulate economic growth in your community.

8. American Grant Writers Association Certification Program

The American Grant Writers Association (AGWA) Certification Program is a professional certification program designed to recognize grant writing professionals who have demonstrated excellence in their field. The program provides a framework for grant writers to demonstrate their knowledge and experience, and to receive recognition from the AGWA.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and successfully pass an exam. The eligibility requirements include having at least two years of full-time grant writing experience or a combination of relevant education and experience. Applicants must also provide three references from individuals familiar with their work as a grant writer.

The certification exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as research methods, proposal development, budgeting, evaluation, legal issues related to grants, and other topics related to grant writing. The exam is administered online through the AGWA website and takes approximately two hours to complete.

The cost of the AGWA Certification Program is $395 USD for members and $495 USD for non-members. This fee includes access to the online certification exam as well as one year of membership with the AGWA.

9. National Grants Management Association Certification Program

The National Grants Management Association (NGMA) Certification Program is a professional certification program for grants management professionals. It provides recognition of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to effectively manage federal grants.

The NGMA Certification Program consists of two levels: Certified Grants Management Specialist (CGMS) and Certified Grants Management Officer (CGMO). To become certified at either level, applicants must pass an exam administered by the NGMA.

The CGMS exam is designed to test the knowledge necessary to manage federal grants from pre-award through closeout. The CGMO exam tests more advanced concepts related to managing federal grants, such as financial management, risk management, and monitoring.

It typically takes about 6 months to prepare for the exams and complete the application process. Applicants must have a minimum of two years of experience in grants management or a related field to be eligible for certification at either level.

To get started with the NGMA Certification Program, applicants should first review the eligibility requirements and then submit an online application form along with supporting documentation such as proof of experience and education credentials. After submitting their application, applicants will receive a testing authorization letter from NGMA that will provide instructions on how to register for the exams.

The cost of the NGMA Certification Program depends on which level you are applying for. The fee for CGMS certification is $395 while CGMO certification costs $495.

10. National Contract Management Association Certification Program

The National Contract Management Association (NCMA) Certification Program is designed to recognize the professional achievements of contract management professionals. The program offers three certifications: Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM), Certified Federal Contracts Manager (CFCM), and Certified Commercial Contracts Manager (CCCM).

It typically takes around six months to complete the certification process, depending on the individual's experience and knowledge. To get certified, individuals must first submit an application, which includes a resume, references, and a statement of purpose. Once approved, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as contract law, negotiation strategies, and risk management.

The cost for certification varies depending on the type of certification being sought. For example, the CPCM certification costs $550 for NCMA members or $750 for non-members. The CFCM certification costs $500 for NCMA members or $700 for non-members. Finally, the CCCM certification costs $400 for NCMA members or $600 for non-members.

In addition to passing the exam and paying the fees associated with each level of certification, individuals must also meet certain continuing education requirements in order to maintain their credentials.

Do You Really Need a Proposal Writer Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no. A proposal writer certificate is not a requirement for success in the field of proposal writing. However, there are some advantages to having one.

First, having a certificate can give potential employers and clients a sense of credibility and assurance that you know what you’re doing. Clients may be more willing to hire someone with a certificate, as it shows that they have invested time and money into honing their skills and learning the relevant information needed to succeed in the field.

Second, if you are looking for a job in the field of proposal writing, having a certificate may help you stand out from other candidates who do not have one. It could give you an edge over other applicants competing for the same position or project.

Third, having a proposal writer certificate may open up new opportunities and doors that would otherwise be closed to those without one. For example, many companies offer specialized courses and workshops on proposal writing that are only available to those who have obtained their certification. This could provide invaluable experience and training which could ultimately make you more successful at your craft.

In conclusion, while having a proposal writer certificate is not necessary for success in the industry, it can provide certain benefits that can increase your chances of obtaining work or landing bigger projects. Ultimately it’s up to you whether or not pursuing this kind of certification is worth your time and energy; however, if you feel like it could benefit your career then it’s certainly worth considering!

Related: Proposal Writer Resume Examples

FAQs About Proposal Writer Certifications

Q1. What is the purpose of a Proposal Writer Certification?

A1. A Proposal Writer Certification is designed to help individuals demonstrate their knowledge and skills in writing effective, persuasive proposals for businesses and organizations. It also serves as a way for employers to identify qualified proposal writers who can help them win more business.

Q2. Who should consider getting a Proposal Writer Certification?

A2. Any professional who works with writing proposals or bids, such as grant writers, business development professionals, content writers, and marketing professionals, should consider getting certified in proposal writing.

Q3. What are the benefits of obtaining a Proposal Writer Certification?

A3. A Proposal Writer Certification will provide you with an edge over other candidates when applying for jobs that involve proposal writing. It also demonstrates your commitment to developing your skills in this area, which can be beneficial when seeking promotions or higher-level positions within an organization. Additionally, having a certification can give you access to exclusive resources and networking opportunities that may not be available to non-certified individuals.

Q4. How long does it take to get certified as a Proposal Writer?

A4. The amount of time it takes to become certified varies depending on the program you choose and how much time you devote to studying and preparing for the exam(s). Generally speaking, most programs require around 40 hours of coursework and/or study before taking the certification exam(s).

Q5. Where can I find information about different Proposal Writing Certifications?

A5. You can find information about various certification programs online through websites such as Udemy or Coursera, or through organizations like the American Writers & Artists Institute (AWAI). Additionally, many universities offer certificate programs specifically focused on proposal writing that have been developed in partnership with major corporations or organizations in the field.