Here are 5 quick tips to help you vet grant opportunities

I just did an initial research project for a new client and want to impart some suggestions while the experience is fresh in my head! Here are 5 tips to help you vet future grant opportunities.

1. Start organized – stay organized: Create a spreadsheet that includes key deadlines and board meeting dates, contact info, most common grant amounts awarded, and website links.
2. Search forwards and backward: Searching by areas of funding interest, geographic focus, and target population is the most often used approach. In database tools like Foundation Directory Online, you can conduct a “reverse-search” to see who has funded similar organizations to your own.
3. Make. Sure. You. Are. Eligible. For. The. Grants. You. Seek! Filter for geography, population served, organizational structure, type of support, and focus areas.
4. Long-term vs one-nighters: pay close attention to whether funding opportunities offer multi-year and renewable grants vs one-year grant awards, and how frequently organizations can re-apply for funding.
5. Document your choices. Keep notes on why a funder or opportunity is a good fit. Save funder profiles if available (like on FDO). Share foundations’ board lists with your own board to find connections and relationships to leverage.