Before you dive into searching for grantmakers, review all the steps for effective research.
Focus your grant research by completing this worksheet.
This is a Word template where you can:
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describe your project and the needs
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itemize your budget needs
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indicate your best search criteria
To make your funding research more efficient and effective, we have developed a glossary that defines the terms we use in both the Areas of Interest, Target Populations, and Types of Support categories in our US Charitable search interface.
It is best to fully review this list before you start searching so that you will be using the most effective terms to get the best results.
As you read through each of the terms and their definitions, you will find terms which describe the nature of your work.
You can create an “A-List” of those terms which fit your program most obviously, e.g. “Hunger/Homeless” for a food bank. These are the terms which will list grantmakers most likely to fund your work.
However, look for “B-List” terms which closely relate to your work. You might find some additional grantmakers who would be interested in funding your projects.
Now you are ready to start using the databases to find grantmakers!
Start by searching for federal opportunities, because many charitable grantmakers will want to know about your governmental funding. If there is a federal source for your project, this can impact your overall strategy.
Investigate the government opportunities within your own state.
Conduct a comprehensive search of private grantmakers using the database for the U.S., Canada, or International grantmakers. This will help you find foundations, corporate giving programs, associations, and more.