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One of the more reliable ways to find a grant writer whose quality you will be happy with is to ask people you know and trust (be they colleagues, friends, family, etc.) if they have worked with any in the past that they would recommend. If someone whose opinion you value gives you a name, it is more likely that grant writer will be capable, professional, and reasonable when it comes to compensation. This can save you a lot of time and energy in the interview process, and afford you some confidence in your new hire before they write even a single word. If those around you haven't worked with a grant writer, or haven't worked with the type of grant writer your organization requires, try asking if they know of any reputable grant writers in your area. Even if the people in your network haven't directly worked with a grant writer in the past, perhaps someone they know has, and they can provide an indirect referral. You can also try asking around at organizations similar to yours that have launched successful fundraising efforts regarding grant writers with whom they have previously worked. If asking around amongst your own contacts doesn't yield any results, try attending a networking event for professional fundraisers in your area. Even if you don't find the perfect grant writer amongst the crowd, you and your organization will still benefit from meeting like-minded individuals, expanding your own network, and learning more about the industry as a whole. Check the websites of professional fundraising organizations, like the Association of Fundraising Professionals, for listings of these types of events and conferences. You can also consider joining one of these organizations to receive regular newsletters and updates, along with access to their publications and resources. These organizations compile lists of qualified individuals that may suit your needs, and looking for a grant writer in this fashion doesn't require any professional contacts or conference/travel fees. Try placing an ad for a grant writer in local newspapers, online job boards, or Craigslist. Make sure you detail exactly what you expect from the grant writer and how much you are willing to pay. Include contact information for your organization.
Use your network to ask around. Attend a professional-fundraising networking event. Search the websites of professional fundraising and grant-writing affiliations to find grant writers in your area. Place ads in more traditional sources.