Many nonprofit organizations are financially supported by grants. Unlike a loan, a grant is a type of monetary contribution that does not have to be repaid. Instead, acceptance of the funds may be hinging on a contingency. For example, the funding from the grant must be used only for a particular purpose. When you need money for your organization, there are many ways to raise money. Consider applying for a grant.
Where can I find grants?
Grants are everywhere. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and change your mind. Don’t say goodbye to that money!
Grants are offered by several different sources. Grants can be funded by the public sector, namely the federal or state government, or the private sector. Privately funded grants are supported by corporations or privately owned foundations. Here are some great resources that will make the grant hunt run smoothly:
- Grants.gov
Grants.gov is a federally operated website with a free, comprehensive grant search tool. As of August 2015, there were nearly 2,000 grand opportunities from the federal government—and there are more added each day. You can refine your search by category and agency provider. You can even see closed and archived grants; if you’re interested in a closed opportunity, try contacting the agency behind the grant. Maybe they will offer it again in the future. Be sure to set up weekly email alerts to keep tabs on the grants you want. - Foundation Directory Online
The Foundation Center’s official foundation grant directory is more than a search tool; subscribers have access to an address book, task list, and dashboard organization tool. This is the site for finding foundation-funded grants. The introductory subscription starts at $399 a year, or $19.95 on a monthly basis. - Grant Watch
Want to look for private and publicly funded grants all in one place? Try Grant Watch. With new grants added every day and the ability to narrow your search to state and local-specific grants, you’ll be sure to find something good.
I've found the perfect grant, now what do I do?
Regardless of whether you found a public or a privately funded grant, you should make some preparations before sending a grant proposal. Most grant funders won’t accept an unprompted grant proposal; instead of sending off a half-baked proposal without any notice (and potentially being turned down without a second glance), figure out the correct way to initiate the process. Some funders will prefer a mailed letter of inquiry before a proposal, others are fine with emails. Other methods include the Common Grant Application or another electronic application. Funders will later ask for a funding plan, which is part of your proposal. Whatever the requirements, be sure to double (and triple) check before you submit. It's really important that you fill out the application correctly the first time!
