Tips for Writing for Non-Profit Organizations

Writing for non-profit organizations can be a true reward, especially for a beginning freelance writer. It might not be the highest-paying market, but non-profits generally offer more consistent work than other markets. Furthermore, non-profit organizations offer a largely untapped market because freelance writers are afraid to be paid by an organization that exists for the benefit of others.

Learn About Non-Profit Organizations

You can't write for a market your don't understand, so do some research before you start writing for non-profit organizations. Understand how they are assembled, how they obtain financing and where the money goes. You should also start familiarizing yourself with non-profit organizations that operate in your geographical locations because those will be the easiest target.

Advertise to Non-Profit Organizations

Most non-profit organizations work directly with professionals who market directly to them. Hopefully, you have a website that describes your freelance writing services, so take time to advertise directly to your target market. You might mention that you give a discount for non-profits or that you specialize in writing for them, whatever works for you.

Don't Write for Free

It might be temping for you to offer your freelance writing services to non-profit organizations for free, but this is not a good idea. Even if you figure that you'll write one brochure or newsletter or proposal for free, then ask to be paid for any subsequent work, it rarely works out that way. Once you give something to someone for free, they won't be pleased when you request money the next time. So if you are approached about working for free, be firm in your stance that it isn't an option.

Volunteer for Non-Profits