What Grants.gov is
Grants.gov is the federal government's central site for finding and applying for grant opportunities from many agencies. Searching listings is free and does not require an account.
Step 1: Search by keyword and filter
- Search by topic, agency or opportunity number.
- Filter by eligibility, which shows who may apply (for example, individuals, nonprofits, small businesses or state governments).
- Filter by funding category and status (forecasted or posted).
- Sort by closing date to spot deadlines.
Step 2: Read the notice of funding opportunity
Each listing links to a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). It explains the purpose, eligibility, award size, deadlines, how applications are scored and what must be submitted. Read it all before investing time. Many seekers find they are not eligible, which is useful to learn early.
Step 3: Check eligibility honestly
| If you are... | Likely path |
|---|---|
| An individual seeking personal funds | Few federal grants fit. Check student aid or specific programs |
| A nonprofit or community group | Many opportunities, with registration needed |
| A researcher or educator | Agency research and education programs |
| A small business | Limited, often through innovation or research programs |
Step 4: Register if you are applying
Organizations that apply for federal awards generally register in SAM.gov, which provides a unique entity identifier, and then set up access to apply through Grants.gov. Registration is free, but can take time, so start early. Be wary of anyone charging for registration.
Step 5: Prepare a strong application
- Follow the NOFO format exactly.
- Show clear need, a measurable plan and a realistic budget.
- Submit before the deadline with margin for technical issues.
- Consider free help from local libraries, small business centers or grant-writing workshops.
If grants are not a fit
Look at small business funding options or money you may already be owed.
Common questions
Is Grants.gov free to use?
Yes. Searching and applying are free.
Do I need an account to search?
No. You only need registrations if you are applying.
What is a NOFO?
A Notice of Funding Opportunity, the official announcement that explains an award's purpose, eligibility and application rules.
Can an individual apply for most grants?
Most listings are limited to organizations. Use the eligibility filter to see which are open to individuals.