Identify a Funding Resource

Examine all the possible resources for identifying funding -Federal, State Agencies, Private Foundations, Corporate Funders.

Peruse the many grants directory search websites that exist, look at federal and state agencies websites, link to your national associations, which often post pertinent grant funding sources, subscribe to listservs or email posting services for notification of funding availability. Focus first on local funding sources.

Evaluate potential funders by their subject interests, geographic focus, size of grants, and types of support. Choose likely funding sources based on the pattern of past giving, and identify the best possibilities.

Contact grants officer at the funding agency after your basic research to learn more about the funder, test your program idea, clarify guidelines, make sure you understand the requirements of the grant proposal.

Read the RFP (Request For Proposal) or funding guidelines thoroughly! Check eligibility first! Understand whether you are even one of the eligible organizations to apply. Don't waste time and energy applying for something that you cannot get.

Allow time to learn the electronic submission process if it is required and get any required software or programs. Federal agencies will all be using electronic submission only with in the next few years.

Funding Sources