How to apply for a grant
1,496 open listings provide official program links. Start with the grant’s applicant requirements, then prepare the application it asks for.
1. Check the applicant and project
Use the grant readiness checklist to track your preparation and find your next steps.
Read the applicant types, location restrictions, ownership requirements and full eligibility on the grant page. Compare the project description with the work you want to fund. For a new business, use startup grants to check programs that explicitly include new or prelaunch ventures.
2. Follow the funder’s application route
These open listings illustrate the different funder types in the directory. Open the grant page for its eligibility and official application link.
- Assisting Specialty Crop Exports: Low Oxygen Storage and Packaging Systems for U.S. Tree Nuts with Phytosanitary Traceability (federal)
- Kentucky SBIR/STTR Matching Funds Program (state)
- Camden Facade Grant Program (local)
- MIT $100K Pitch (foundation)
- Sephora Beauty Grant (corporate)
For a federal organizational application, complete SAM.gov registration and then follow the Grants.gov Workspace guide. A UEI number alone does not complete registration.
3. Turn the instructions into a checklist
- Record the exact closing date and official time, with its US Central equivalent.
- List required forms, attachments, page limits and budget instructions from the official opportunity.
- Check award limits, cost sharing and eligible expenses; missing fields in a directory are not permission to omit them.
- Assign the writer, budget reviewer and authorized submitter.
Use how to write a grant proposal to connect the application narrative to the recorded project purpose and funding requirements.
4. Submit and check the result
Follow the funder’s instructions, keep a copy of the submitted package, and retain confirmation details. Federal applicants can use the submission and error checklist. A submission confirmation is not an award decision.
Questions
How do I apply for grants?
Choose an open program, compare your applicant type and project with its eligibility, and follow its official application instructions. Save the deadline, required documents and submission confirmation.
Do all grants require SAM.gov registration?
The directory includes federal, state, local, corporate and foundation funders. Organizational applicants applying directly for federal awards need SAM.gov registration; other funders specify their own application steps. Official guidance.
What is the next grant deadline?
Assisting Specialty Crop Exports: Low Oxygen Storage and Packaging Systems for U.S. Tree Nuts with Phytosanitary Traceability is the next dated open listing, closing October 26, 2026. Its applicant and project requirements still apply.
Get free help applying
Find a local business adviser or mentor to discuss your plans and application questions.