Funding Success News

Where does one start when looking for a grant? What should you look for? Why would you want to pay for the service of a grant search? The questions are often asked by those just starting to look for money through grants.   If you are a novice to grant searching, understand that the search is just the beginning. In a search you  look for possible grants that your organization or you as an individual can apply for.

The search can begin in many ways.  You can subscribe to RSS feeds, newsletters or databases that will alert you to new opportunities.  I receive hundreds of alerts each day.

You may want to use the search engines offered by the your state or the individual departments at the federal, state or local levels.  There are several organizations dedicated to grant searching such as the Grantsmanship Foundation, the Donor’s Forum, Charity Channel and the Foundation Center.  You can navigate around these and look for possible matches for your needs.

Match is the primary word. You want to be sure that your need and organization match what the funder wants to fund.  You must carefully read the requests for proposals (RFP) or application rules.  In my class Navigating the Grant Writing Maze I tell people to go to the eligibility section first. You can quickly see if your  are eligible for the money. If not move  on.

Paying for a grant search can save yo time and money in the long run. Be sure that the person doing the search knows enough about your needs to make appropriate matches. Understand that some projects are easily funded while others may be a stretch.  Always check that the person or company doing the search does not have any hidden fees.