Book review of Grant Writing Mastery

by Hoong Yee Lee (Author)

Updated at: 06/01/2025

Securing funding is crucial for nonprofits, community programs, and creative projects. Hoong Yee Lee's Grant Writing Mastery provides the essential roadmap to success. This comprehensive guide, written by an expert grant reviewer who has awarded over $10 million in grants, walks you through every step of the process. Learn how to identify suitable grants, craft compelling proposals that resonate with funders, and avoid common pitfalls. From budgeting to submission and handling rejections, Grant Writing Mastery equips you with practical strategies, templates, and insider knowledge to transform your project ideas into funded realities. Whether a beginner or seasoned applicant, this book empowers you to write winning grant proposals and secure the funding your project deserves.

Grant Writing Mastery: A Complete Guide to Getting Funding and Writing Winning Proposals for Nonprofits, Community Programs, and Creative Projects

4.9 / 91 ratings

Review Grant Writing Mastery

"Grant Writing Mastery" by Hoong Yee Lee completely exceeded my expectations. I picked it up hoping to improve my grant writing skills, but I ended up with so much more than a simple how-to guide. This book is a genuinely transformative experience for anyone involved in securing funding, regardless of experience level.

What struck me immediately was the author's clear and approachable writing style. Lee, with her impressive track record of awarding over $10 million in grants, doesn't lecture; she guides. The language is straightforward and avoids overwhelming jargon, making even the most complex aspects of grant writing feel manageable. The book is meticulously structured, leading the reader through each stage of the process in a logical and digestible manner. It's not just a passive read; it’s an active learning experience.

Each chapter is packed with practical advice, actionable strategies, and real-world examples. Lee doesn't shy away from sharing insider tips, the kind of knowledge usually gained only through years of experience and trial-and-error. These "secrets" – which are honestly just smart, strategic approaches – feel invaluable. The inclusion of templates, checklists, and budget examples is a game-changer. These tools aren't just fillers; they are essential building blocks that help you systematically construct a compelling and effective grant proposal. They saved me countless hours of figuring things out from scratch.

I particularly appreciated the book's emphasis on building relationships with funders. It's not just about submitting a perfect proposal; it's about understanding the people behind the funding, their priorities, and how to effectively communicate your project's alignment with their mission. This human-centric approach elevates the entire process beyond mere paperwork and transforms it into a collaborative endeavor.

The book also addresses the inevitable rejections. Instead of viewing them as failures, Lee frames them as invaluable learning opportunities. She provides practical strategies for analyzing feedback and using it to refine future proposals, fostering a growth mindset that’s crucial for long-term success in grant writing.

Whether you're a seasoned professional looking to refine your techniques or a complete beginner taking your first tentative steps into the world of grant writing, "Grant Writing Mastery" offers something of value. It's a comprehensive, practical, and incredibly supportive resource that empowers you to turn your project ideas into funded realities. The author's expertise shines through on every page, making what could be a daunting task feel achievable and even exciting. I highly recommend this book to anyone who dreams of securing funding for their passion projects – it’s truly a masterclass in grant writing.