Grants 101
Everything you need to know about federal grants and the application process
Federal grants are financial awards provided by the U.S. government to support projects and programs that benefit the public. Unlike loans, grants do not need to be repaid.
The federal government awards over $500 billion in grants annually across 26 federal agencies to support various initiatives including:
- Education and research
- Healthcare and public health
- Community development
- Environmental protection
- Arts and culture
- Science and technology
- Social services
Discretionary Grants
Competitive grants awarded based on merit review. Applicants must submit detailed proposals that are evaluated against specific criteria.
Formula Grants
Non-competitive grants distributed according to a formula specified in legislation. Typically awarded to state and local governments.
Continuation Grants
Renewal of funding for existing projects that have demonstrated success and met performance requirements.
Pass-Through Grants
Grants awarded to state or local governments that then distribute funds to other organizations (sub-recipients).
Find Opportunities
Search Grants.gov or use GrantScope to find federal grant opportunities that match your organization's mission and capabilities.
Register
Complete registration with SAM.gov (System for Award Management) and Grants.gov. This process can take 2-4 weeks, so start early.
Review Requirements
Carefully read the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) or Request for Proposals (RFP). Note all eligibility requirements, deadlines, and submission instructions.
Prepare Application
Develop your project proposal, budget, and all required documents. Consider using GrantScope's AI generator to help draft your application.
Submit
Submit your complete application through Grants.gov before the deadline. Submit at least 48 hours early to address any technical issues.
Track & Follow Up
Monitor your application status and respond promptly to any requests from the funding agency. Award decisions typically take 3-6 months.
CFDA (Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance)
A unique number assigned to each federal program. Now called Assistance Listings.
UEI (Unique Entity Identifier)
A 12-character alphanumeric ID assigned to organizations in SAM.gov. Required for grant applications.
NOFO (Notice of Funding Opportunity)
The official announcement of a grant competition, including requirements and instructions.
AOR (Authorized Organization Representative)
The person authorized to submit grant applications on behalf of your organization.
Indirect Costs
Overhead expenses that support the project but aren't directly attributable to it (e.g., utilities, administrative salaries).
Match/Cost Sharing
The portion of project costs not paid by the federal grant, which the recipient must cover.