What is a Grant?

"a grant (noun): a gift (as of land or money) for a particular purpose."

In the context of fundraising and nonprofits, a grant typically refers to funds awarded by a government agency, foundation, or corporation to support specific programs, projects, or operational needs—without requiring repayment.

Who can apply for grants?

Anyone! Whether you are a student, start-up, nonprofit, LLC, or artist, you can apply for a grant. You just need to find the right grant for you.

Where can you find grants?

There are many resources—both free and paid—where you can find grant opportunities that align with your mission. Free resources include platforms like Grants.gov (for federal grants), Foundation Directory Online - Quick Start, and Instrumentl's free trial, as well as local community foundations and state agency websites. Paid platforms like GrantStation, GrantWatch, and full access to Foundation Directory Online offer more advanced search features, funder profiles, and deadlines.

A valuable (and often overlooked) free tool for researching funders is the IRS Form 990—a public document that nonprofit foundations file each year. You can find 990s using websites like Candid.org, ProPublica’s Nonprofit Explorer, or Foundation Center. When reviewing a 990, look for Part XV or Schedule I, where it lists grant recipients, the amount awarded, and sometimes the purpose. This can help you identify which organizations a foundation supports, the typical grant size, and whether your work aligns with their priorities. Learning how to read a 990 can give you an edge in targeting the right funders and crafting proposals that speak directly to their giving history.

Understanding how to navigate these resources not only saves time—it empowers you to be more strategic and confident in your search for funding.

When to hire a Grant Writer?

That’s a personal decision—and one only you can truly answer based on your goals, capacity, and stage of growth. A skilled grant writer, like our Founder, can bring years of experience and a strategic eye to streamline the entire grant process—from research and funder outreach to writing compelling narratives and managing deadlines.

Here are a few key factors to consider:

• Cost vs. Return on Investment (ROI): While hiring a grant writer is an investment, their expertise often increases your chances of securing larger, more competitive funding. Consider how much time and potential funding you may be missing by going it alone.

• Time and Capacity: If your team is stretched thin or lacks the specialized knowledge to navigate complex applications, a grant writer can free you up to focus on programming and outreach.

• Onboarding and Collaboration: Hiring a grant writer requires some initial onboarding—sharing program details, budgets, and past funding history. However, once integrated, a good grant writer works like an extension of your team.

• Outcome and Strategy: If you're applying for your first grant, expanding into federal funding, or trying to grow sustainably, a professional grant writer can help develop a long-term strategy—not just a one-time application.

Ultimately, hiring a grant writer can move your vision forward faster and with greater clarity—especially when aligned with your mission and goals.