Grants.gov is an amazing resource for grant seekers…who qualify for federal or other government grants. When using the Grants.gov search engine, set the parameters to show only grants that your organization or entity qualifies for.
Government grants primarily fund grant seekers in the following areas:
- Government Organizations
- Educational Organizations and Institutions
- Public Housing Organizations
- Nonprofits
If you are an individual, small business, or for-profit organization, there are grants available through the Small Business Administration, or state and local-level grant making entities. Private schools and private school systems, and religious nonprofits can also struggle when looking for government grant funding. Foundation grants, nonprofit grant makers and private grant makers are good resources in these circumstances.
If you are having trouble finding government grants, follow the flow of grant funding from the federal government to state and local governments and nonprofits. If your project or objective is in line with the original grant, you may be able to find funding through projects funded by the grant.
Identify your search criteria
- Use the subject index of each directory to find your type of support
- Learn all you can about a prospective grantor
- Visit the prospective grantors websites
- Use the information to craft a proposal that “speaks” to each individual grantor
While this might not lessen the anxiety of finding funding prospects, it should ease the workload. Once you know the area in which you are looking for funds, it is easier to find foundation which aligns with your needs. Most importantly, don’t chase the money! If the program you need funding for does not align with the potential grantor, do not change your program to fit the needs of the funder! Have a little faith. Through the weeding out process you will find your perfect match!
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