FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I want to start a new nonprofit.  Where can I learn about grant opportunities?

A: The Foundation Center has compiled a database of funding opportunities.  Basic information on foundations is available free of charge on their website.  This information provides contact information for as well as links to the most recent 990s.

The Foundation Center also provides more comprehensive information through The Foundation Directory Online.  Access to this service is fee-based, with prices currently ranging from $19.95/month or $195/year for the Basic level to $179.95/month or $1,295/year. However, many public libraries provide access to the service for their patrons free of charge.  The Foundation Center also hosts Cooperating Collections throughout the United States, some of which provide complimentary access to the service. For a list of Cooperating Collections and their offerings, please visit http://foundationcenter.org/collections/.

If you are interested in funding from a community foundation, visit the Community Foundation Locator at the Council on Foundations.  Their home page is http://www.cof.org/.  To learn about federal government grants, visit http://grants.gov/.

Q: I want to start a business.  Where can I get grant funding for that?

A: While commercials on late night television may have you believing the federal government is handing money out to new businesses hand over fist, there are no direct federal grants for small businesses.

However, many states do offer small grants and other forms of assistance for those looking to start or expand small businesses.  Links to the states’ Economic Development Agencies are available at http://www.eda.gov/Resources/StateLinks.xml

Q: Do you have to have a relationship with a funder to be awarded a grant?

A: No!  One of the most common misperceptions about the world of grant funding is that it is relationship based.  Don’t feel that a dearth of personal contacts will limit your organization’s ability to obtain grant funding.

Funders have their own goals and missions.  The best way to secure grant funding is to find funding opportunities that create a good match between the work of your organization and a funder’s objectives.  For example, if a foundation is dedicated to reducing poverty and your organization helps match individuals with job training programs, your programs would help the funder further its purpose.

Q: Can I submit a proposal to more than one funder at a time?

A: Absolutely.  In fact, it is in your benefit to submit proposals to more than one funder at a time.  Think of this process like a job search.  You would not submit a resume to one potential employer and then wait to hear back before applying for any other job.  Instead, you would apply for all the positions that appear to be a good fit.  Approach your grant seeking in the same manner.