Cartoon of a man and woman sitting at a desk, working together on a laptop and a document titled Proposal. Image from Proposify.com.
Image: Proposify.com

By Gary Bess Associates

Using the Funding Opportunities Tool

As part of the Climate Capacity project, we conducted a local and national funder search and compiled the Funding Opportunities database of climate-related funding opportunities, with about 60 opportunities listed at this time. Here’s how to explore the database.  

Search Term

Type in any relevant word or phrase, like “housing” or “coastal ecosystems” or “environmental justice,” and click Submit. You’ll receive a list of results that contain the words in the grant title or description.

Sort By

Choose to sort the list by Deadline Date (be aware that not all opportunities have due dates listed!), Alphabetical (by the funding opportunity name), or Newest (any opportunities added most recently—useful if you’ve reviewed the database recently).

Filter

Select Types of Support and choose from: Capacity Building, Capital Projects (Equipment/Building), Fire, Flood, General Support, Operational Improvements, Other Disasters, and Technical Assistance

Select All Scopes and see a filtered list for: Regional, or Statewide

Best Practices for Using Funding Databases

Grant funding databases can be valuable tools that centralize information about grants and funders. Here are some tips to keep in mind whenever you are using a funding database, large or small.

1. Diversify Your Search

Don’t rely solely on grant databases! Explore other sources of funding, too, such as local grant opportunities, corporate sponsorships, or crowdfunding platforms. Databases don’t capture every possible opportunity, so if you diversify your search, you increase your chances of finding relevant funding options.

2. Verify Information

Double-check the accuracy and timeliness of data in grant funding databases. Cross-reference information with official funder websites, or contact grant administrators directly to ensure you have the most up-to-date details.

3. Build Your Expertise

Invest time in learning how to effectively use grant databases. Take advantage of tutorials, webinars, or workshops offered by database providers or external organizations to improve your search skills and understanding of grant terms and guidelines.

4. Seek Guidance

Don’t hesitate to reach out for support and guidance. Connect with experienced grant writers, mentors, or industry experts who can provide valuable insights, advice, and assistance throughout your grant-seeking journey.

Understanding the Limitations of Funding Databases

While grant and funder databases are invaluable tools, it’s also essential to recognize their limitations to avoid potential pitfalls and maximize success in securing grants. Consider these limitations, as well as tips to overcome these challenges.

1. Incomplete Coverage

Grant funding databases, while extensive, may not capture every available grant or funding opportunity worldwide. This limitation arises due to the diversity of grant providers, the dynamic nature of funding programs, and the sheer volume of grants available. As a result, if you rely solely on these databases, you and your organization may miss out on relevant funding options.

2. Data Accuracy and Timeliness

Maintaining accurate and up-to-date information in grant funding databases can be challenging. While database providers strive to update their content regularly, there may be delays in capturing newly announced grants or funding changes. This lack of timeliness can lead to missed opportunities or outdated information, impacting organizations’ grant-seeking efforts.

3. Complex Search Functionality

Grant databases offer advanced search filters to help users narrow down relevant funding opportunities. However, the complexity of these search functionalities can be overwhelming for new or inexperienced users. Understanding how to effectively use these filters and interpret search results requires a learning curve that organizations must navigate.

4. Usability Challenges

Despite efforts to design user-friendly interfaces, grant funding databases can still pose usability challenges. Navigating through grant listings, understanding eligibility criteria, and deciphering funding guidelines can be daunting, especially for organizations with limited experience in grant procurement.

5. Limited Support and Guidance

Grant funding databases may lack personalized support and guidance for users. Inexperienced organizations may struggle to find resources or assistance within the database ecosystem, leading to frustration and confusion during the grant-seeking process.

By acknowledging and addressing the limitations of grant funding databases, organizations can approach the grant-seeking process with greater confidence and effectiveness. By leveraging a combination of resources, expertise, and strategic approaches, organizations can enhance their chances of securing the funding they need to drive their missions forward.