Foundation Government Grants

The largest sources of grants in the United States: Foundations and Government. The Federal Government and Foundations provide hundreds of billions of dollars. The purpose of these grants are broad, from major construction projects, medical research, or for an after-school reading program. The variety of non-profit, business, and individual enterprises funded by government and foundation grants is virtually endless.

Thousands of Foundation, Government Grant Programs

The federal government has over 1,000 grant programs through 26 government agencies. Government grants can range from a few thousand to $100 million. Most grant opportunities are listed on the federal grant portal: Grants.gov. Some federal government grants are given directly to the States, who then re-grant this money to local organizations. The best way to apply for government grants is to apply at the appropriate level: national, State, or local.

Government grants are usually given to non-profits, schools, public housing, and large for-profit businesses. However, there are grants to individuals in the form of college tuition grants, research grants, and artistic endeavors. Small businesses are eligible to apply for small business.

In the U.S. there are approximately 60,000 foundations in the United States. New foundations continue to be created, while others regroup or disband. Some foundations were designed to give grants in perpetuity and give money for generations.

U.S. Foundations gave approximately $45 billion each year to thousands of charitable causes. The most famous and largest foundation, The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation gives over $2 billion a year in global giving. The focus of the foundation is to solve large problems such as ending malaria, which is one of the most lethal diseases in the world.

Where Does Foundation and Government Grant Money Come From?

Federal government grant money comes from U.S. tax dollars, which is allocated based decisions made by Congress. Therefore, the average citizen participates in the use of tax money that finances government grant programs. Cuts in spending impact government grants greatly. Also, changes in tax revenue affects government grant funding.

Foundations are privately funded from a large bequest, individual donors, or a combination of both. Some corporations have established their own foundations. Corporate foundations operate similarly to non-profit foundations, but have slightly different rules. Foundations often have assets invested and they give grants based on interest income. Therefore, foundations do not spend down all of their assets and are able to give grants for many years.

How to Apply for Foundation, Government Grants

To apply, an applicant first finds a relevant opportunity and reads the eligibility guidelines. The government grant portal, Grants.gov is a clearinghouse on all federal grants. Foundation grant opportunities can be found at the Foundation Center (FoundationCenter.org). Only organizations or individuals eligible to apply should do so. If someone who is ineligible applies, then the application is disqualified.

If eligible, the application is free to apply to a foundation or government grant opportunity. Usually a grant submission includes background information, project description, and attached budgets and other information.