Search Tools & Resources

At this point, you know what you’re looking for and how to evaluate fit. The next step is understanding where to search.

There is no single place where all funding opportunities live. Some are found through databases, others through funder websites, and many through less obvious paths. This lesson introduces the core tools you’ll use to locate potential funding — starting with Grantli’s state-specific resources and expanding outward.

You are not expected to use every tool discussed. The goal is orientation, not execution.

Important Links:

Use the following resources as you continue your grant search. You do not need to use all of them at once. Refer back to this list as needed.

Search & Research Tools

• Grantli State Resources: grantli.com/stateresources
• Bank Trustee Foundation Directories: Wells Fargo, J.P. Morgan, and Bank of America
• Google Alerts (use with your keyword list)
• Fee-Based Databases: Foundation Directory Online (Candid), Grant Gopher, and GrantStation
  (Note: Candid offers free access through select Funding information network locations.)

Core Documents to Keep Open While Searching

• Organization Info Form
  (Created in Week 1 — this is your one-page organizational snapshot.)
• Project Overview
  (Created in Week 2 using the PRINT method — this replaces what may be referred to elsewhere as a “project fact sheet.”)
• Funder Profile Forms
  (Use one per potential funder to track fit, notes, and next steps.)

These documents are your reference points. Keep them accessible as you explore funding opportunities and evaluate alignment.