When searching for grants as a nonprofit, several free platforms stand out as particularly valuable resources. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the best free grant search options:
Foundation Directory Online (Basic)
The Foundation Center’s basic version provides access to thousands of foundation profiles and grants. While the full version requires a subscription, the free tier offers substantial information about foundations, their giving patterns, and recent grants awarded. This is often considered the gold standard for grant research.
Grants.gov
This is the federal government’s central portal for finding and applying for federal grants. It’s completely free and provides access to over 1,000 grant programs from 26 federal agencies. The search functionality allows filtering by category, agency, and eligibility requirements. All federal grant opportunities are posted here first.
GrantSpace
Operated by Candid (formerly Foundation Center), GrantSpace offers free resources including a funding directory, proposal writing guides, and nonprofit management tools. Their “Find Funders” section helps identify potential foundation and corporate supporters.
State and Local Government Websites
Many state governments maintain grant databases specific to their region. These often include state agency grants, community foundation opportunities, and local government funding. Check your state’s official website or department of commerce for these resources.
Community Foundation Websites
Local community foundations typically list their grant opportunities on their websites for free. These are particularly valuable for smaller, local nonprofits as community foundations often prioritize local impact.
Corporate Foundation Websites
Many corporations publish their grant guidelines and application processes directly on their websites. Companies like Walmart, Target, and Microsoft have dedicated foundation pages with clear application instructions.
Professional Association Resources If your nonprofit serves a specific field (education, health, environment), relevant professional associations often maintain grant databases for their sector. For example, the Association of Fundraising Professionals provides resources for member organizations.
Tips for Effective Free Grant Searching
- Start broad with federal databases, then narrow to state and local opportunities
- Create saved searches on platforms that offer this feature
- Follow foundations on social media for announcement of new opportunities
- Join nonprofit networks and email lists for grant alerts
- Use multiple platforms as each may have unique opportunities
Limitations to Consider
While free resources are extensive, they may not be as current or comprehensive as paid services. Some foundations don’t widely publicize their opportunities, making relationship-building and networking equally important to online searching.
The most effective approach combines multiple free platforms with active networking and relationship building within your community and field of work.
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