Find the Right Funding Opportunities
FIND: Using a focused research process
Successful grantseeking is most effective when it is guided by a clear and intentional research process. When organizations approach funding research strategically, they are better able to identify grantmakers whose priorities align with their mission, programs, and the communities they serve. A thoughtful approach helps focus your time and energy on the opportunities that are most likely to support your work.
GrantStation's Research Process offers a practical framework to guide your grant research. It moves you from defining your funding needs to identifying potential funders, learning about their priorities, and determining which opportunities are the strongest fit for your organization.
The process includes four key steps:
- Step 1: Create a Project and Identify Search Terms: Clearly define what you are seeking funding for and identify search terms that reflect how funders describe the work they support.
- Step 2: Search and Refine Your Prospects: Use filters and search criteria to generate and narrow a list of potential funding opportunities.
- Step 3: Research Your Prospects: Review funder profiles, analyze giving patterns, and explore funder websites to better understand their priorities and processes.
- Step 4: Prioritize Your Funding Opportunities: Use a decision matrix to evaluate alignment, readiness, and return on investment so you can prioritize the strongest opportunities.
Together, these steps help turn grant research into a focused, strategic activity that builds a strong and sustainable funding pipeline for your organization.