Proposal Writer

Startup Costs: $2,000 - $10,000
Home Based: Can be operated from home.
Part Time: Can be operated part-time.
Franchises Available? Yes
Online Operation? Yes

Each year government agencies on the federal, state, and local levels put thousands of RFPs (requests for proposals) out for bid. The proposals can range from building government buildings to supplying computer equipment for government offices, and just about anything in between. Though many of these proposals can be very lucrative for the company or individual that successfully bids for the contract, many small- to medium-sized contractors simply do not complete the proposal and bid forms. The bidding process is extremely involved and usually requires technical drawings, action plans and contingency plans--business owners and management have neither the time nor abilities to complete them. A proposal writer compiles and completes the proposal documents on behalf of the contractor. It's as simple as that. Proposal writers charge fees based on the amount of time it will take to complete the proposal, typically in the range of $30 to $40 per hour. Some proposal writers even charge a commission on the value of the contract should their client be awarded. Furthermore, most proposal writers specialize in an area of expertise such as nonperishable goods, construction, services, maintenance or nonprofit. A proposal writer must have access to a wide range of research resources and in most cases a technical writing ability.

Needed Equipment

Equipment required for the service is basic and only includes standard office and computer equipment.

Proposal Writer Ideas

Linen Supply Service

Sell or rent linens to a variety of clients, from hotels to event planners.

Murder Mystery Parties

Have a flair for the dramatic? Host murder mystery parties.

Entertainment Booking Agent

Put your networking skills to work as an entertainment booking agent.

More from Business Ideas

Side Hustle

This 27-Year-Old Started a Side Hustle on Facebook Marketplace — Now the Gig Earns Over $500,000 a Month

Valentina Zapata wanted "something positive to do on the side" — and it turned into a major money-maker.

Starting a Business

3 Things to Consider Before Your Perfect Business Partner Becomes Your Perfect Disaster

There are many reasons for start-up businesses' high failure rate, including lack of cash, not doing enough research and poor marketing. But this one reason is definitely not getting enough attention.

Side Hustle

3 Secrets to Starting a Small Business Side Hustle That Gives Your Day Job a Run for Its Money, According to People Who Did Just That — and Made Millions

Almost anyone can start a side hustle — but only those ready to level up can use it to out-earn their 9-5s.