How to Research and Identify the Right Grants for Your Organization

Happy New Year! With the fresh start of January, there’s no better time to roll up your sleeves and start planning for your organization’s funding goals. Let’s talk about one of the most critical steps in the grant process: researching and identifying the right grants. It’s a little like dating—you’re looking for the perfect match that aligns with your needs and values. So, grab your favorite beverage, and let’s dive into how to find those ideal funding opportunities.

Step 1: Know Your Needs and Goals

Before you start your search, take a moment to reflect on what your organization truly needs. Are you launching a new program? Expanding an existing one? Maybe you’re looking for operational support or funding for advocacy work. Being clear on your objectives will help you narrow down your search and focus on grants that are a good fit.

Pro tip: Write down a few key phrases that describe your project or funding needs. These will come in handy when using search tools.

Step 2: Explore Trusted Tools and Platforms

The internet is a treasure trove of grant opportunities—if you know where to look. Here are my go-to platforms for grant research:

1. Grants.gov: A goldmine for federal grant opportunities. You can filter by category, eligibility, and more. Bonus: They recently added an AI feature that suggests related opportunities.

2. Candid (formerly Foundation Center): This platform offers tools like Foundation Directory Online, which helps you find private and corporate funding opportunities. It’s a must for researching foundations and their giving histories.

3. Instrumentl: A subscription-based tool that aggregates federal, state, and private grants, and even provides recommendations based on your project.

4. Local Government and Community Foundations: Don’t overlook smaller, local opportunities. These can be easier to win and just as impactful for your community-focused work.

Step 3: Read Between the Lines

Once you’ve found some potential grants, it’s time to dig deeper. Read the grant guidelines carefully. What are the funder’s priorities? Do they support projects like yours? Are there any restrictions or requirements that could be a dealbreaker? Pay special attention to eligibility criteria—you don’t want to waste time applying for a grant that’s not a good fit.

Step 4: Organize Your Options

As you research, you’ll probably come across multiple opportunities that seem promising. Keep track of them! Create a spreadsheet or use grant management software to document important details like deadlines, requirements, and contact information. This will make it easier to prioritize and plan your applications.

Step 5: Network and Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid to reach out to the funder if you have questions. Most grantmakers are happy to provide clarification or additional information. Building a relationship with funders can also increase your chances of success. Attend webinars, workshops, or networking events hosted by grantmakers to learn more about their priorities and expectations.

Step 6: Start Local and Build Momentum

If you’re new to grant writing, start with smaller, local grants. These are often less competitive and can give you valuable experience to build on. Plus, success with smaller grants can make your organization more appealing to larger funders down the line.

Step 7: Stay Persistent and Positive

Grant research can sometimes feel overwhelming, but remember: every "no" gets you closer to a "yes." Keep refining your search, learning from each experience, and celebrating every small win along the way.

Final Thoughts

Researching and identifying the right grants for your organization takes time and effort, but it’s an investment in your mission’s success. At T&G Associates, we believe in making grants simple and impact real. If you’re feeling stuck or need a little guidance, I’m here to help. Let’s navigate your path to funding success together!