How to find grants for nonprofits: Tips for making it easier

Introduction

Grants are crucial for nonprofit organizations as they provide funding to support their missions and effectively serve their communities.

Although the process of seeking grants can feel underappreciated, with the right strategies and tools, you can make it easier and give yourself some time back.

This guide will provide practical methods for finding and applying for grants, ensuring your nonprofit secures the necessary funding.

What are grants for nonprofits?

Grants are financial awards given to nonprofit organizations to support their programs and operations. These funds do not need to be repaid, making them an appealing funding source. There are three main types of granting entities (grantmakers), including:

• Government: federal, state, and local government agencies.
• Foundations: private and community foundations.
• Corporate: corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs and community-sponsored foundations

Government agencies

Government grants are a significant source of funding for nonprofits. They can be categorized into:

• Federal grants: Typically, large-scale grants provided by federal government agencies. They often come with rigorous application processes and reporting requirements.
• State and local grants: These grants are offered by state and local governments and can be more accessible to smaller nonprofits.

Foundations

Foundations are another crucial funding source. They include:

• Private foundations: These are typically established by individuals or families and provide grants based on specific interests or causes.
• Community foundations: These foundations focus on supporting local communities and often have many funding priorities.

Corporations

Corporations often support nonprofits through their CSR programs. Types of corporate granting entities include:

• Community-sponsored foundations: These are foundations established by corporations to support community initiatives.
• CSR programs: Corporations allocate a portion of their profits to fund nonprofit projects that align with their values and business goals.

Types of grants

Nonprofits can apply for various types of grants, including:

• • Program development support: Funding for specific projects or programs. Generally restricted, meaning they can only be used to fund the specific purpose outlined in the proposal.

  • General operating support: General support for the organization’s operational expenses. These grants are less restrictive and can help offset the cost of almost any operating expense. 

  • Capital funding support: Funds for building projects, equipment, property acquisition, or other capital expenditures.

  • Research grants: Generally awarded to individuals or teams within or associated with higher education institutes and research-oriented organizations.

  • In-kind donation grants: Support given in the form of a resource other than monetary forms, such as donations of free consulting, free grant writing, equipment, or supplies.

  • Matching grants: Require the nonprofit to raise a certain amount of money to receive the grant.

Tips to successfully find and apply for grants

Finding and applying for grants can be simplified with the following strategies:

Identify your funding needs

• • Assess program and operational funding requirements: Determine the financial needs of your programs and operations. What will this money be used for? This is essential before considering a proposal and can help narrow your search to grants that are a good fit with your needs.

  • Determine specific project needs: Identify the specific projects that require funding. If this is operational support, outline exactly what you need to cover and for how long. If this is a specific project, outline the plan, budget, and timeframe.

  • Set realistic goals: Set achievable funding goals based on your organization’s capacity and needs. If needed, use the SMART method to get started!

Research potential grants

• • Using keywords effectively: Utilize relevant keywords to search for grants. As noted above, determining specific project needs will not only help you plan and budget, it will also help you hone in on keywords and search criteria for grant research.

  • Filtering and sorting grant opportunities: Use filters to narrow down grant opportunities that best match your needs. Having a plan and keyword strategy going in will help speed up your filtering process.

Build and strengthen relationships with funders

• • Networking strategies: Attend events and engage with potential funders.

  • Attending grant workshops and conferences: Participate in workshops and conferences to learn more about the grant application process. Sometimes, funders hold their own workshops to help potential grantees learn how to be a successful grant partner.

  • Communicating with potential funders: Establish and maintain communication with funders to build strong relationships.

Leverage technology and social media

• • Use social media to find grants: Follow grantmakers and funding organizations on social media to stay updated on opportunities.

  • Use grant management software: Implement software solutions to manage and track your grant applications. Look for tools that integrate with grant databases to help with finding grants and robust post-award grant management tools to ensure your funder relationships are protected throughout the process.

Collaborate with other organizations

• • Form partnerships and coalitions: Forming partnerships with similar organizations can enhance your impact. Seek those with similar goals to build trust and share resources and expertise.

  • Collaborate on grant proposals: Working together on grant proposals can increase your chances of success. Pool resources and expertise to create more robust, more comprehensive proposals.

  • Share services and resources: Sharing services and resources, such as office space, administrative support, or technology, can reduce costs and improve efficiency.

Understand grant guidelines

• • Read and interpret grant criteria: Carefully read the grant guidelines to understand what the funder seeks. This includes eligibility requirements, submission deadlines, and specific project criteria.

  • Ensure eligibility: Verify that your organization meets all the eligibility requirements before applying. This saves time and resources for both you and the funder - which will help maintain and strengthen relationships.

  • Align your mission with grant priorities: Ensure that your project aligns with the funder's mission and priorities. Tailor your proposal to highlight this alignment. 

Prepare a strong grant application

Elements of a successful grant proposal:

• • Executive summary: A concise overview of your project, highlighting its significance and impact. Read Executive summaries: Say it all without saying too much

  • Statement of needs: Clearly define the problem your project addresses and why it is essential.

  • Goals and objectives: Outline what you aim to achieve with your project.

  • Project description: Provide a detailed description of your project, including activities, timelines, and expected outcomes.

  • Budget and financials: Present a detailed budget that justifies the funding request and demonstrates financial planning.

  • Evaluation plan: Describe how you will measure the success of your project.

  • Tips for writing a compelling proposal: Use clear and concise language, support your claims with data, and tailor your proposal to the funder's interests.

  • Gathering necessary documentation: Ensure you have all required documents, such as financial statements, letters of support, and organizational information.

Gather additional insight with Foundant’s webinar: From A to Z the grant writing process

Common mistakes to avoid:

• • Ignoring eligibility requirements: Always check eligibility criteria before applying.

  • Missing deadlines: Submit your application before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.

  • Providing incomplete information: Ensure all application sections are complete and accurate.

Where to find grants for nonprofits

There are several excellent resources for finding grants, each with differing benefits.

GrantStation

• • Main features and benefits: Provides access to a comprehensive database of grant opportunities, tools for grant research, and resources for writing proposals.

  • Subscription details: Offers various subscription plans to fit different needs and budgets.

Foundant's integration with GrantStation allows you to streamline the grant application process within our grant management software.

Candid

• • Main features and benefits: The Foundation Directory Online offers detailed profiles of grantmakers and their funding history.

  • Subscription details: Various subscription levels are available, from basic to professional plans.

Foundant's integration with Candid helps users access and manage grant information efficiently within our grant management software.

Grants.gov

• • Main features and benefits: A centralized platform for finding and applying for federal grants.

  • How to navigate the platform: Use the search tools to find relevant grants, and follow the step-by-step application process provided on the site.

Grant writing resources

In nonprofit grant acquisition, having the right resources at your disposal can significantly enhance your effectiveness and efficiency. Here's an overview of essential grant writing resources that can help streamline your processes.

Grant writing webinars

Grant writing webinars are an essential resource for anyone involved in the pursuit of grant funding. They not only offer a foundation of knowledge and skills but also provide ongoing support and insights into the latest trends and best practices in grant writing. Whether you are new to grant writing or looking to refine your skills, participating in webinars can significantly enhance your ability to secure funding for your projects and make a lasting impact.

The Foundant team regularly hosts insightful webinars on grant writing, offering practical advice from experienced grant professionals. 

Grant writing books

• You Have a Hammer

• The Essential Fundraising Handbook for Small Nonprofits  

• Nonprofit Fundraising 101: A Practical Guide to Easy to Implement Ideas and Tips from Industry Experts 

• Getting Funded: The Complete Guide to Writing Grant Proposals 

• The Beginner's Guide to Grant Writing 

• The Only Grant-Writing Book You'll Ever Need 

• Grant Writing for Dummies

Grant writing consultants

Many nonprofits turn to grant writing consultants for their expertise and guidance. These professionals can help you navigate the complex grant application process and increase your chances of securing funding. When looking for a consultant, prioritize experience, a successful track record, and good communication skills. Platforms like the Grant Professionals Association can be a valuable resource for finding reputable consultants.

FAQs

How do I find funding sources?

Start by identifying your needs and aligning them with potential funders' interests. Resources like GrantStation, Candid, and Grants.gov can be invaluable in locating relevant funding opportunities.

How do I write a grant request for a nonprofit?

A compelling grant request includes:

• A clear executive summary.

• A statement of need.

• Defined goals and objectives.

• A detailed project description.

• A precise budget.

• A robust evaluation plan.

Remember to align your proposal with the priorities.

How many hours does it take to write a grant?

The time spent on writing a grant can vary widely depending on the complexity of the proposal and the required research. On average, expect to invest anywhere from 20 to over 100 hours.

How do I find information on grants for nonprofits?

Platforms like Grants.gov for federal grants, as well as private directories like GrantStation and Candid, are excellent starting points. Local libraries and government offices may also have resources available.

How do I find grants for nonprofits in Canada?

In Canada, the Canada Grants Portal is a comprehensive resource, alongside platforms like GrantConnect and the Canadian Environmental Grantmakers' Network.

How do I find government grants for nonprofits?

Start with Grants.gov for federal opportunities in the United States. For other countries, explore government websites dedicated to grant opportunities, such as the Canada Grants Portal in Canada. Always ensure your nonprofit's eligibility for the desired grants.

Conclusion

With the right approach, securing grants for your nonprofit can be a manageable and rewarding process. By understanding the types of grants available, identifying your funding needs, researching potential grants, building relationships with funders, and leveraging technology, your organization can successfully navigate the grantseeking process and secure the funding it needs to thrive.