With more and more funds becoming available to non-profits, organizations, and even individuals, it doesn’t make sense to not apply for it. The first step is to apply for and win a grant in thousands of specialties. But with all the confusion and complexity surrounding them, how best to win a grant?

A good starting point is to check out this ultimate guide to grant writing including 100 tips, tools, and tutorials to have you or your agency winning funds. These can be from anyone from the federal government to specific funding agencies.

Best Sites For Grant Writing

Stop by these comprehensive sites for a good starting point in beginning or refining your grant writing abilities.

1. Non-profit Guides : Get a ton of grant writing tools for non-profit organizations here. They have guides for the preliminary proposal, full, and even sample proposals to view. There is also an FAQ section with more.
2. Idealist.org : Stop here for a massive non-profit FAQ. There are tips on organizations, management, regulation, and loads of other resources.
3. Foundation Center : Learn how to write winning grants and explore e-learning opportunities on this site. There are tools for both individual and non-profit grant seekers, along with grant makers and more. Be sure to check out their online resources as well.
4. Philanthropic Ventures Foundations : Stop here for several tips, tools, and tutorials for grant writers. They include a proposal writing kit, foundation center, course on writing, and more.
5. Charity Navigator : This massive site is one of America’s largest charity evaluators that lists the top charities in a variety of fields. You can also read tons of grant writing articles, along with other tools with a simple visit.
6. Fund-raising : The site is a must see for grant writers who need help with all aspects. They offer a directory, community, articles, ideas, and resources.
7. Nonprofit Good Practice Guide : Learn how to improve your grant writing by improving your non-profit with the help of this site. There is a special section for philanthropy and grantmaking, along with a free glossary of terms.
8. N Power : They are committed to sharing technology information, inspiration, and ideas so they are available for the widest community benefit. Visit for guides, papers, and tools for your grant writing.
9. Network For Good : This is an online fundraising guide for overworked non-profits. The learning center is packed with tools for the grant writer including how to become a fundraising superhero, website help, email, and much more.
10. Leader to Leader Institute : Their mission is to strengthen the leadership of the social sector. Visit the site for grant writing tools such as a knowledge center and information on collaboration.

Best Sites For Federal Grant Writing

These sites provide tips, tools, and tutorials, for those applying for federal funds.

1. Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance : Part of the General Services Administration, this is a free catalog of federal domestic assistance. Tips and tools include a database of all federal programs and how to contact them.
2. Auburn University Libraries : Although provided by a private source, this is intended to be the one stop shopping point for federal government information. Use the Quick Jumps to find the site or sites you are looking for without having to do a lengthy Google search.
3. FedWorld.gov : Part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, this is another easy way to locate tons of government information. You can also mail the Help Desk with any questions you may have.
4. Congresswoman Pelosi’s Grant Information : This useful tutorial can help with applying for both federal and private funding. There are also links to available funds.
5. Tax Information for Charities & Other Non-profits : Learn how and what to file for when running a non-profit from the I.R.S. Topics include life cycle, search for charities, guidance, exempt FAQ’s, and more.

Best Blogs for Grant Writing

Get expert information on grant writing from those who do it for a living with these blogs.

1. Idealist : The site is full of tips and tutorial for grant writers, including an impressive blog. Read the latest entries, or you can even listen to their podcast.
2. 79 Grant Writing Resources : True to the title, the blog is currently on its 75th grant writing resource and counting. Blog posts tell the best and worst of grant writing, as well as give useful links.
3. Donor Power Blog : Greg has spent over 20 years in the fundraising industry and shows you how to treat donors seriously. In addition to regular posts, you can also download the Donor Power Pledge and read the Donor Power manifesto.
4. Deborah’s Proposal Writing Blog : Her blog is about writing proposals for government grants and government contracts. It was discontinued in 2008 but still has interesting entries such as proposal planning issues and checklists.
5. Demystifying Grant Seeking : This site was written by Larissa Golden Brown and Martin John Brown, authors of a book of the same name. There hasn’t been a new entry since 2007, but the Habits of Fearless Grant Seekers entry is worth the visit alone.

Best Resources for Grant Writing

These resources are full of tips, tools, and tutorials for the aspiring grant writer.

1. Grant Station : The site provides access to a comprehensive online database of grantmakers, as well as other valuable tools. Learn more about membership, or utilize many of their tools available online.
2. GuideStar : Stop here for tons of resources for both grantwriters and donors. There is a six minute tutorial, grantmaking tool that is 100% I.R.S. compliant, and even a list of their top ten organizations.
3. TechSoup : Your non-profit needs technology as well as grant writing. Stop here for a database of hundreds of products discounted just for charitable organizations.
4. International Travel and Study Abroad Grants : Provided by Michigan State University Libraries, this is an excellent source for individuals who are writing grants for travel purposes. They have dozens of resources on grant makers who provide just this type of funding.
5. State Grants Team : The State Grants Team provides technical assistance, statewide grants training, and federal liaison services to Texas state agencies, all subdivisions of government, and nonprofit organizations. If you don’t live in Texas, try looking for a similar office in your own state.
6. Grant Resource Center : Part of the Santa Clara County Office of Education, there are many tips and tools for grant writers here. In person resources include a free consultation and grant writing workshops, while online resources include Funding Update and a portal to online grant resources.
7. Center for Non-profit Management : This is one of the nation’s leading management support organizations. There are a variety of tools and services offered including consulting, opportunity 501, DonorBridge, loan funds, and more.
8. Free Management Library : Get a massive resource for grant writing without ever having to leave your desk with this online library. Topics include everything from advertising to volunteering, and of course, fundraising.
9. Community of Science : Looking for grant writing opportunities in the science or technology world? Then stop here for tons of tips, including the top ten funding opportunities.
10. Foundations Online : If seeking to write a grant to these private donors, visit here for an online directory. You can browse the foundation directory, pick a listed foundation, search any foundation’s information page, or search any foundation’s home page.

Best Tutorials for Grant Writing

Learn everything from the basics of grant writing to advanced practices with these tutorials.

1. The NonProfit Times : Visit here to get a leading business publication for non-profit management. You can check out the top stories, editorial columns, and more information for grant writers and leaders.
2. Grant Writing Tutorial : Provided by The Research Assistant, they have a free tutorial on writing grants. It is specific for applying for a grant from the NIH, but has loads of useful information for all grant writers.
3. Writing A Successful Grant Proposal : This tutorial is from the Minnesota Council on Foundations. It includes the various sections of a standard grant proposal, variations, common questions, and more.
4. SchoolGrants Grant Writing Tips : These grant writing tips are meant for those applying for a K-12 grant, but are useful for everyone. They include tips for letters of inquiry, top ten tips, hiring consultants, and more.
5. How Do I Get A Grant To Volunteer? : This interesting article is provided by HowStuffWorks. It shows how and how one should grant write for an individual volunteer grant.
6. Fundraiser Insight : This magazine is targeted towards grant writers and fundraiser coordinators. You can read articles online or look up tips for every kind of fundraiser from brochure to soap.
7. Grantwriting Resources : This free tutorial is provided by Fundsnet Services. In addition to the useful links, you can also use their comprehensive directory for more help.
8. Grantwriters.com : The tip of the week is a good reason to visit the site. Stay for the top ten grant writing tips, Philanthropy News Digest, and a professional point of view.
9. Grant Writers Online : Get tutorials on writing for educational, business, government, and other grants here. There is even a unique section with grant writing mistakes to help you not make any.
10. Internet Prospector : This online newsletter is focused on the non-profit grant writing community. Although it was discontinued in 2008, you can still browse through the archives for tutorials dating all the way back to 1994.
11. Grants: Beyond The Money : This short article was written by Alan November, a technology consultant for a high school. It is an excellent piece for those looking for an educational grant and need a few grant writing tips.

Best Tools for Grant Writing

Now that you know what to write, learn how, where, and other aspects of grant writing and non-profits with these tools.

1. Boardnet USA : If you’re an individual interested in board service or a nonprofit looking for a new board member, visit here. Over 12,000 users have taken advantage of their services, overseeing 3.4 billion dollars in budgets.
2. BoardLink : Similar to the above, they help build your non-profit by building strong leaders. The site also offers workshops, resources, an FAQ, and more.
3. Idealware : Stop here before purchasing any grant writing or non-profit software. The site provides an independent reviews and articles about software of interest to nonprofits.
4. MobileActive : If you use a mobile device for your grant writing or non-profit organization, visit here. You will find a network of others just like you in advocacy, disaster relief, environment, health, and other areas.
5. Fundraising IP : If your grant writing involves a fundraising event, stop her. You’ll find both fundraising ideas, event tips, planning, and even online fundraising.
6. The Grantsmanship Center : They offer a variety of online tools, including workshops and courses. The resources section contains publications, GrantDomain, and federal register announcements to help your grant writing.
7. GrantsWeb : This site is a starting point for accessing grants-related information and resources on the internet. Be sure not to miss their proposal developments tools, along with many others.
8. Proposal Cafe : Find a network of successful grant writers, along with tons of help here. Also a useful visit if you need to view or post a grant writing job.
9. Nonprofit Local : Get a fresh, new tip of the day with each visit to this site. They also offer forums, free membership, the ability to connect with other non-profits locally, and more.
10. Form 1023 Help : If one of your first duties as a grant writer is to obtain 501 (c)(3) status for your non-profit, visit here. It is a comprehensive guide with help for eleven parts of the form and an FAQ section.
11. The Tech Dictionary and IT Encyclopedia : If you are a grant writer and need a tool for technology terms, stop here. The site provides a glossary, definitions, and even cheat sheets at no charge.

Best Sites for Grant Writers to Get Volunteers

Because time is money, use these sites to get volunteers to help out your non-profit or organization.

1. Volunteer Match : Stop here first for a massive database for volunteers, non-profits, corporations, and more. They even have a special tool to help you recruit volunteers.
2. Serve.gov : Founders of the National Day of Service, you can also find volunteers. Visit the Getting Started section for more information and even a toolkit.
3. Volunteers of America : This national organizations mobilizes thousands of volunteers every year. See how you can get your non-profit involved with them by visiting the site.
4. Do Something : This site is ideal for those who want teenagers as volunteers. They have a Project of the Day, Cause of the Month, and loads of videos.
5. Energize : If you need help recruiting, maintaining, or finding more volunteers, stop here to read the dozens of free articles. They include everything from “The ABCs of Recruitment” to “Getting to Yes.”
6. Associated Content : Similar to the above, this is another site with tips, tools, and tutorials for volunteering. Start with “How to Recruit Volunteers More Effectively” before moving on to others.

Best Specialty Sites For Grant Writing

These sites provide tips, tools, and tutorials, for those applying for specific funds.

1. The Chronicle of Philanthropy : This regular publication has the latest tools and information for a variety of non-profits and grant writers. Check out the Guide to Grants, Non-profit Handbook, and much more here.
2. Easy Fund Raiding Ideas : Visit here for free ways to write grants or raise money for schools, churches, and related areas. There are tons of products for sale, but be sure not to miss the ideas section and the number one way to raise funds.
3. e-Bility : The site offers easy access to a wide range of information of interest to people with disability, their families, health professionals, and service providers in the disability sector. The site has updates, resources, tips, and more.
4. Proposal Writing and Government Contracting : If you are writing a grant to a government agency, this is a good tutorial site to check out. Tools include a free proposal checklist, decision guide, free money, and much more.
5. Cynthia Says Portal : If your non-profit caters to the disabled, be sure and use this free tool to make sure your website is up to Section 508 and WCAG standards. Simply type in the link, options, and click test to begin.
6. U.S. International Grant Making Project : If you are writing for an international grant, stop by this site for more help. They have a list of grantmaking basics, along with specific information on a variety of countries.
7. Show Me The Money : Get grant writing tips specifically for graduate students from the APS Observer. It shows you what to do before, during, and after the grant writing process.
8. Grant Writing Tips Sheet : If you are planning to write a grant proposal to the NIH or similar agency, stop here. There are several guides available including applying, peer review guidelines, applications, and of course, writing.
9. Advice On How To Write A Grant Proposal : This article was written by Dr. Silverman, who made loads of funding decisions on grant applications. It is especially useful if you are seeking an anthropological grant.
10. How To Write A Grant Proposal : The well-reviewed site, Internet Based Moms, shows you how to write a grant proposal for your small business. There are also tons of other tips and tutorials on the site.

Best Guides to Grant Writing With Free Services

Make the most of your money by not spending at expensive grant writing sites. Use these free sites first to see what they can do for you.

1. Grant Writers.net : They specialize in helping organizations across the country find funding. Use their free wizard to send in your grant writing questions.
2. U.S. Grant Writers : A top ranked service, they provide grant writing help for a variety of organizations. They have a free grant writing kit available with just a click.
3. Free Grant Writing eBook Download : Visit here to download “Six Easy Steps to Millions in Grants.” It is an introduction to the world of proposal writing and is full of tips.
4. Grant Writing USA : If you are willing to host a grant writing workshop, you can attend for free. Stop by to read the frequent questions or have a look at their schedule.
5. Flaghouse : If you’re in need of help with your sports, P.E., special needs, or other similar grant writing, visit here. They have links to tons of resources to help fund your project.
6. Black Sheep Fundraising : Stop here to download your free copy of this book as a guide to rethinking major gifts for your non-profit. Simply click on the link to get it.
7. The Charity Channel : Type in your email address to get this weekly newsletter full of the latest in grant writing opportunities. You can also read loads of useful articles, visit the university, or listen to their radio station.

Best Guides to Grant Writing in Paper

Ready for more help with your grant writing? Then check out these popular and insightful books, many costing just a few dollars a piece.

1. Grant Writing For Dummies :Because there is a “dummy” book for everything, why not grant writing? This highly praised book contains the latest language, ways to target the best sites, the peer review process, and one stop funding.
2. The Only Grant-Writing Book You’ll Ever Need : Another well reviewed book, this one shares secrets from top grant writers. They also include interviews with dozens of foundations, associations, and government organizations to provide the best thinking around a tedious subject.
3. Writing For A Good Cause : This book is a complete guide to crafting proposals, along with other pieces for non-profits. It also includes the habits of successful grant writers and a behind the scenes look at the world.
4. The Complete Guide to Writing Effective & Award Winning Grants : This book not only contains step by step instructions for grant writing, but a CD-ROM as well. From finding available grants, to knowing what funders want to know, this book can help you.
5. Demystifying Grant Seeking : This book is packed with what you really need to do in your grant writing. It shows readers how to create a system that is part art, part science to get the best in funding.
6. Getting Funded: The Complete Guide to Writing Grant Proposals : Drawing on over 60 years of experience in the field, authors Dr. Mary Hall and Susan Howlett take you step by step, through this complex and sometimes frustrating process. They teach you how to measure capability, research, select funding sources, and much more.
7. The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Grant Writing : With this comprehensive guide, grant seekers for organizations will learn each step of the grant writing process, including who can receive a grant; find government, corporate, and foundation donors; create a budget; write a compelling proposal, and more. The current edition of this book also includes a CD-ROM with more tools.
8. Grant Writing: A Complete Resource for Proposal Writers : Covering the basic skills every grant writer needs, learn how to get funds—no matter how stringent the submission guidelines. Other tips include finding the funds, applying for government grants, paperwork, and more.
9. Guide to Effective Grant Writing : If you are planning to write a grant for the NIH, this book can help you. Covering all aspects of the proposal process, from the most basic questions to the task of seeking funding, this volume offers clear advice backed up with examples.
10. Start Your Own Grant Writing Business : Now that you know loads about grant writing, why not start your own business? For only twelve dollars, it shows you how to identify grants, write persuasive proposals, follow up, build income, and market your grant writing business for less than $100.

Best Places To Apply For Federal Grants

Now that you know how to write, check out these sites with federal funds to offer to a variety of organizations.

1. Grants.gov : This is a one stop source in looking for and applying for federal grants. The Office of Health and Human Services, The American Recovery Act, and many other agencies list grant opportunities here.
2. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development : HUD literally has millions of dollars available in potential funding. Start by registering, or search their database to find and apply for grant opportunities.
3. U.S. Department of Education : Both students and non-profits can visit this government agency to send in their grant writing. Choose from a guide, grants forecast, application, and much more.
4. Environmental Protection Agency : If your non-profit has a green purpose, or even frame of mind, visit this site to see what the EPA can do for you. Grant writers can choose from tips on how to apply, forms, announcements, and much more.

Best Places To Apply For Private Grants

Don’t settle for just tax money with your grant writing. Use these sites and guides to apply for and win grants in the form of private donations.

1. IBM : Part of their office of corporate citizenship and corporate affairs, they award grants to address issues such as the environment, community economic development, education, health, literacy, language, and culture. Click on programs and guidelines for more information on the sort of grant writing they are looking for.
2. HP Global Social Investment : Grant writers looking for funding in education and community development can stop here. An excellent stop if you have needs outside of the United States.
3. Verizon Foundation : A standout feature of this foundation is the tool to apply for a grant online. There are also resources for students, as well as non-profits.
4. Ben & Jerry’s Foundation : Also an ice cream maker, they have been funding grassroots organizations since 1985. Funding priorities are given to applicants whose causes lead to societal or environmental change, address the roots of problems, and lead to new ways of acting.
5. Enterprise Community Partners : If your non-profit assists with affordable housing and thriving communities, stop here. Programs include foreclosure response, preservation, Native American, senior housing, and supportive housing.
6. Global Fund For Women : The GFW supports women’s groups that advance the human rights of women and girls. Grants can range from $500 to $20,000 for both operating and program expenses.
7. MacArthur Foundation : Send your grant writing here to utilize the foundation’s international, domestic, or general programs. Subsets include international peace and security, mental health, media grantmaking, and other areas.
8. Getty Foundation : Founders of a museum in Los Angeles of the same name, they support projects locally and throughout the world that advance the understanding and preservation of the visual arts. The majority of the foundation’s grants are awarded through initiatives focused on a specific issue or region.
9. The Benton Foundation : This foundation works to ensure that media and telecommunications serve the public interest and enhance democracy. Recent initiatives include the 21st Century Skills Initiative and Digital Opportunity Channel.
10. Grant Wrangler : Get fast funding for your K-12 organization or school. Look up grants by STEM, arts, health, and more.

With the help of this ultimate guide to grant writing, funding your project, program, and more is now easier. If the tips, tools, and tutorials are still too confusing, be sure and contact a professional for more assistance.