This updated guide explains what grants are, where to find credible U.S. federal and private grant opportunities (Grants.gov, Candid, SBA, state and local agencies), and step-by-step advice for matching needs to programs, registering, preparing applications, and avoiding scams. It also clarifies tax and repayment issues and recommends free help resources.
What a grant is - and what it isn't
A grant is financial assistance that generally does not need to be repaid when you meet the award terms. Grants differ from loans and from contracts: they fund activities or needs, they have eligibility rules, and they often require reporting on how funds were used.Grants can support education, small businesses, research, community projects, housing assistance, and more. Eligibility varies by program - some require U.S. citizenship, others accept permanent residents or organizations. Grant awards and rules vary by agency or foundation.
Common federal and private sources
- Grants.gov - the primary portal to search and apply for federal grants.
- Candid (formerly Foundation Center) - searchable foundation and philanthropic resources.
- Small Business Administration (SBA) and federal programs such as SBIR/STTR for innovation funding.
- State and local government agencies and community foundations.
Practical steps to find and win grants
1. Define your need and match the program
Be specific: education costs, a business pilot, community services, or research. Search with those terms on Grants.gov and Candid to find programs that fund that purpose.2. Check eligibility and requirements
Read the full Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) or grant guidelines. Note deadlines, allowable costs, who can apply (individual vs. organization), and reporting requirements.3. Register early if you're an organization
Federal awards typically require registration in SAM.gov and a Unique Entity Identifier. Start registration weeks before a deadline; it can take time to complete.4. Prepare a clear request
Grant officers review dozens of applications. Explain the problem, your plan, budget, outcomes, and how you will report results. Follow formatting and submission rules exactly.5. Use free assistance first
Many agencies offer applicant webinars, Q&A sessions, and sample applications. Local SBDCs (Small Business Development Centers) and community foundations also provide free help.What about taxes, credit checks and repayment?
Grants are not the same as loans, but tax treatment depends on how funds are used. Some grants (for example, many federal income-based benefits) may affect taxable income or benefits. For tax guidance, consult the IRS or a tax professional.Most legitimate grants do not require credit checks or collateral. Beware of scams that charge fees to "guarantee" awards or ask for bank account passwords.
Final advice
Treat grant-seeking like a project: research, match, document, and meet deadlines. Start with Grants.gov, Candid, SBA resources, and your state or local agencies. If you hire a consultant, verify references and avoid anyone who promises guaranteed grants or asks for upfront fees to secure federal funding.FAQs about Grant Money
Are grants the same as loans?
Where should I start searching for federal grants?
Do I need good credit or collateral to get a grant?
Are grant awards taxable?
News about Grant Money
Medieval Lavenham church receives grant for urgent repairs - BBC [Visit Site | Read More]
Synagogue restoration project gets £113k grant - Brighton and Hove News [Visit Site | Read More]
Bid to save historic Torridge church gets a heritage grant boost - North Devon Gazette [Visit Site | Read More]
Ashton United welcome latest community grant to grow scheme tackling mental health issues - Manchester Evening News [Visit Site | Read More]
Wrexham and Flintshire close to approving new Investment Zone grants scheme - Wrexham.com [Visit Site | Read More]
North East taxi drivers call for Newcastle Clean Air Zone U-turn on unspent £8m grant cash - Chronicle Live [Visit Site | Read More]