Having been a grant writer for close to 20 years, I feel like I’ve cracked the grant research DaVinci Code when it comes to searching for grants online. I’m like a twelfth-level bearded dragon… or something. That’s a thing, right? 

What I’m trying to say is that I’ve done enough grant research to have learned a trick or two. Those tricks evolved into my go-to strategy for conducting grant research online, which has helped me quickly find the right grants for just about any need. Even better, this proven strategy doesn’t involve purchasing expensive subscription to grant research databases like the Foundation Center or Grant Watch. Yep, Google is my grant database. 

I’m sharing the primary steps I take when I do online grant research for my organization. Why am I giving you my secrets? I hear this question asked so much that I wanted to create a simple process for anyone who’s job it is to find grants. And honestly, my tips aren’t secrets. I’m happy to share what’s worked well for me over the years. With a little bit of guidance you’ll soon be on your way to becoming a super grant researcher!    

Tip #1: Start with a broad online search for your program or focus area.

You’re going to do a general keyword search that includes your program concept followed by the word "grants".

For example, in your search bar type something similar to this.

• Arts education grants

• Animal rescue grants

• Childhood education grants

Remember, this is a broad search. This helps determine if your program is one that is typically funded by grants. Don’t feel like you have to click on every single website that pops up (though you could if you wanted to go down the rabbit hole). Think of this step as your warm up. It gives you a sense for the number of potential grants that may be available in your field. Don’t get discouraged if nothing comes up from this initial search. Try changing up the phrases and see what comes up.

Tip #2. Next, add your state, metropolitan region, or city to refine the search.

Now that you know that there are grants available for your focus area, it’s time to begin narrowing your search for grants that are available for your focus area and close to your organization’s location.

For example, in your search bar type something similar to this.

• Performing arts grant Missouri

• Performing arts grant Kansas City Missouri

See how we added ether a state or city? It’s easier to find and apply for grants that are offered by funders that already have a presence in your community. 

Tip #3. Search for Community Foundations in your region.

For example, type something like this.

• Community foundation grant Kansas City Missouri

Simple enough, right? Most major metropolitan areas will have one (or several) of these community foundations. Those foundations often administer several grants and donor advised funds that could be potential matches for your organization. 

Tip#4. Know your competition (rather, your peers).

Who funds your competitors and partners? Look at the websites or annual reports of organizations that are similar to yours and identify potential funders to research. This is also a good strategy if you have moved to a new region where you’re not yet familiar with the local philanthropic community. I’ve done this every time I started working for a new organization.

Tip #5. Research local banks in your region.

Local bank branches will often support local initiatives. Each bank will have it’s own funding priorities and process for giving back to the community, so checking their website or visiting the branch will be your best opportunity to learn more. Consider starting with the bank where the organization, staff or board members already have accounts.

Tip # 6. Research companies or vendors where you often buy products or supplies.

Review your organization's list of vendors and suppliers. Then search the websites of those companies for terms like "community involvement", "corporate giving", or "giving back" to find out how the company engages in corporate giving. If you can also locate the company’s annual report or social impact report, that will often give a glimpse of any grant funding or corporate giving they provide.

There you go! See, nothing to it.

Remember, I created this downloadable PDF that you can have. I recommend that you print this guide and have it next to your computer or hole punch it and put it in your development binder. This is so helpful to have at your fingertips if you ever get stuck during your grant research.