Federal grant money is abundant but competition is fierce.
Qualifying for federal and state grants takes a bit of research and knowledge, and it takes a keen eye to know where to look. Many late-night infomercials claim that the government has "millions in free money!" While it may be true that the government provides plenty of grant opportunities, much of it is available to non-profit organizations and/or businesses of varying sizes. Grants for individuals are scarce, and the government usually separates them into the category of personal financial assistance. You'll face plenty of competition for most federal and state grants, but with a bit of organization you have a good chance to stand out from the pack.
Instructions
1. If you haven't already registered a company or non-profit organization in your area, register one with your local courthouse.
2. Decide how much money you need. A clear budget is always a great sign of organizational competence and trust-worthiness. Create a complete and accurate budget with reasonable estimates and no exaggerations.
3. Define the purpose and benefit or getting the grant. If you are non-profit organization, clearly define the benefit your organization will create in your community or in the world by obtaining this grant. For businesses, define how the money you are using will create more profit for your business, or how it will benefit the community. Perhaps this grant will create more long-term jobs, or it will help improve the quality of life in your area through the new services your business will provide. A clearly defined benefit will greatly improve your chances of qualifying for a federal and state grant.
4. Define the type of grant you are seeking, and seek only the ones you qualify for. For example, if you are a local government or non-profit organization, you should not apply for small business grants.
5. Register your organization with Grants.gov. This is the most complete and authorized grant database for federal and state grants. Grants.gov requires all organizations to go through their registration process, usually taking anywhere from three days to two weeks, to be eligible to apply to the grants on their website.
6. Download and submit the grant application package from Grants.gov. The grant application will go through their verification process. If approved, it will go to a granting agency for consideration. The granting agency will contact your organization if you are selected to receive their grant.
