Apply For Funding In Three Easy Steps!
Step One: Search
Searching requires patience and persistence to find the perfect funding opportunity. There are thousands of funding opportunities and billions of dollars available from both federal and private organizations that are required to give away money to people just like you! These grants don’t require credit checks, security deposits, co-signers or collateral. It’s very important that you know what type of funding you’re seeking before you get started. What do you NEED the money for? Do you need it to get out of debt, start a business, pay for childcare, fund an education, buy a home or to pay for prescription drugs? Take some time to figure out exactly what you need the funding for and then start searching both the federal and foundation grant databases. You can start by searching Grants.gov or the Foundation Center.
Step Two: Inquire
Once you’ve found the funding opportunities for which you want to apply, you’ll need to inquire about its availability. Often times this step can get overlooked and lots of time can be lost as a result of filling out applications for opportunities that no longer exist. There are typically a few ways in which you can inquire. In most cases, you’ll need to write a letter of inquiry to the address listed on your selected opportunity. However, for some opportunities you’ll be able to call or send email. If you’re required to write, then download our sample letter of inquiry, compose your letter and mail it off immediately.
Step Three: Apply
As soon as you have received confirmation that the grant you are interested in is available, it is time to move forward. The application is the most important step in this process. It is extremely important that you follow the instructions to the letter. Most of the agencies providing funding review hundreds if not thousands of applications every year. Your application should be clear and to the point. Make sure that the entity you are writing to can see why awarding the funding to you is a wise investment for them. Explain how you are going to use their money carefully and how others are going to benefit from your work. Remember, it is very important that you adhere to the application format that that your target audience is accustomed to seeing. Sample Grant Application.
Additional Resources
For additional information regarding grants, the application process, or getting approved, feel free to explore our archives of resource articles dedicated to helping you get approved for the grant that is right for you! All posts are accessible via the main menu located at the top of this page, and our best wishes go out to you as you embark on your grant search with File For Grants!
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