Welcome to Day 8 of the 30-Day Grant Readiness Challenge!
Finding the right funding isn’t about luck—it’s about having the right grant research tools in your arsenal. If you find yourself “chasing the money” or stumbling upon deadlines at the last minute, your research toolbox might need an upgrade.
Today, we are auditing your tools to ensure you have a proactive grant prospecting strategy.
Audit Your Grant Research Toolbox
Take 10 minutes today to list every resource you use to find funding. Are you utilizing a mix of these essential categories?
1. Paid Databases
Are you using platforms like Foundation Directory Online (Candid), Instrumentl, or GrantStation? Many offer deep discounts for GPA Members.
2. IRS 990 Finders
Tools like GuideStar or the Candid 990 Finder are vital for seeing where foundations have actually awarded money in the past.
3. Funder Websites & Directories
Don’t overlook local resources like Grantmaker Association Membership Directories (e.g., the Council of Michigan Foundations).
4. Search Engines & Social Media
Strategic Google searches and LinkedIn can often reveal new funding trends and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives before they land in the major databases.
Pro Tip: The “Research Inventory”
Which of these tools are you using consistently? If you’re only using Google, you might be missing thousands of private foundation opportunities and donor-advised funds that don’t have a public website.
Refine Your Research Strategy
Explore these resources to help you find better matches for your mission:
- Watch: How to Avoid Grant FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) – Diane H. Leonard, GPC, RST, reviews grant research tools so that you don’t ever have to fear missing out on an opportunity.
- Download: Visit our Grant Research Hub for a curated list of our favorite free and paid tools.
- Re-Assess: Is research a strength or a weakness for your team? Find out with the GRASP Tool.
Join the Discussion
We want to hear from you! What is the one must-have “hidden gem” research tool that your nonprofit loves?
Leave a note in the comments below and share your favorite resource with the community!