How to start with grants

New to grants? Here's how to get started without feeling overwhelmed.

Step 1: Figure out what you actually need

Before you start searching, get clear on what you're funding.

If you have a strategic plan, look at what funding you need to hit your goals. If not, make a list of projects you want to run.

For each project, write down what it will cost:

• Equipment

• Venue hire

• Catering

• Staff time or coordination

• Marketing

• Overheads

Worth knowing: Some costs (like general operating expenses) often aren't covered by grants. But knowing all your costs helps you work out if a project is actually doable.

Step 2: Search for grants

Start broad in the Grants Directory, then narrow down. Our members tell us they find relevant grants they would've missed if they'd been too specific from the start.

Begin your search with:

Location: Where you operate or where the project happens. Include national grants, plus your state to see everything you might be eligible for.

Topics: Things like Arts, Community, Disability, Education, Health & Wellbeing. We read the guidelines and categorise each grant so you don't have to.

Keywords: Specific terms like mental health, social enterprise, or women. This helps you shortlist fast.

You can also filter by:

• Grant amount
• Who can apply
• DGR status requirements
• Co-contribution requirements

Quick tip: Save your search to get email alerts when new grants match your criteria.

Before you apply

When you find a grant that looks good, click through to the funding provider's website and read the full guidelines. Make sure you're eligible and your project fits what they're funding.

Not sure? Contact them. Five minutes on a call beats five hours writing an application that doesn't fit.

Use the features in your membership to track grants so you don't miss future rounds.

Step 3: Write and submit your application

Give yourself plenty of time. Don't leave it till the last minute.

Get someone to read your draft – a colleague, friend, or committee member. Fresh eyes catch errors, budget mistakes, and ways to make your case stronger.

When you hit submit, give yourself a pat on the back. You've done it!

Then wait. Some funding providers respond in weeks, others take months. If you haven't heard back and want an update, you can reach out.

After you get the result

Take a few minutes to think about what worked and what you'd do differently next time. This'll help you improve future applications.

And if you're successful? Let us know. We love celebrating wins with our members.