Customized grants research
We realize that a subscription to Grant Spy doesn't fulfill every grant seeker's needs. That's why our research staff is available to conduct customized research. Just tell us about the programs and projects you need grant funding for and we'll locate appropriate federal, state, and/or foundation funding opportunities.
Fees
Fees will vary according to the assignment. We accept payment by check or credit-card. To discuss your particular research needs, please contact us via the help page.
How to focus your grants research
Below are some guidelines to consider before commissioning any grants research.
- There are three major sources of grants: the federal government, state governments, and foundations (private, public, community, and corporate). Which of these sources should be included in your search?
- Don't simply draw up a wish list of the things you hope to buy with your grant award. Think in terms of the problems that the grant money will enable you to solve.
- The goal of any grant-maker is not to give away money; the goal of a grant-maker is to achieve its own specific purpose(s) (e.g., improve public education, reduce the incidence of HIV/AIDS in the metro area, provide economic opportunities for women entrepreneurs, etc.). The grantee is merely the vehicle used by the grant-maker to achieve its purpose(s). Think about how your organization or program can appeal to grant-makers. Ask not what the grant-maker can do for you; ask rather what you can do for the grant-maker.
- Grants offered by government agencies typically have very specific guidelines: either you will be eligible to apply, or you won't. On the other hand, grant programs offered by foundations have guidelines ranging from very specific to very vague. Foundations with very vague guidelines will nevertheless expect to receive very specific proposals.
- Try to define your needs broadly. At any given moment, your chances of finding, say, "a grant to build a fountain in the park" are relatively low. Your chances of finding "a grant for public art" are higher.
- Think about your long-term needs. Most grant programs run on cycles, and many (especially government programs) only accept applications during one or two months out of the year.
- Remember: charity begins at home. Have you approached philanthropists, charities, and businesses in your own community yet? If you can't find support for your organization or program in your own back yard, you're likely to have a tough time convincing a foundation across the country to support it.