Private grants generally require more research than governmental grants. The goal of this research process is to identify grantmakers whose mission and vision align with the purpose, programs, and goals of your nonprofit. Some grantmakers announce grant initiatives in requests for proposals (RFPs). Others may have general guidelines and program areas for their giving. They make information about their grantmaking available in a variety of ways: websites, social media, annual reports, and IRS filings (public charities and private foundations must file some version of Form 990 annually). The links on this page provide a starting point for identifying grantmakers and learning more about their giving.
Keep in mind that private grants are typically awarded to nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status. If you are want to learn more about the steps involved in establishing a nonprofit, visit our Nonprofit Management research guide.
Free access to the Foundation Directory Professional grantmaker database is available through Candid Community locations, like the New Jersey State Library. See a list of all locations in NJ below.
Provides detailed information on over 230,000 U.S. foundations, corporate giving programs, and grantmaking public charities, with links to current foundation 990-PF tax returns. Search by name, EIN, location (state, county, city, metro area, congressional district, andProvides detailed information on over 240,000 U.S. foundations, corporate giving programs, and grantmaking public charities, with links to financials and 990-PF tax returns. Search by name, EIN, location, subject area, types of support, and more. View profiles for over 27 million previously-awarded grants, including their purpose, amount, and recipient. Foundation Directory includes data on funding for individuals, including scholarships and fellowships. Updated weekly.
GuideStar provides information on the finances, leadership and missions of charities and nonprofits. Search by name, keyword, location, nonprofit type, subject area and more. Profiles include revenue and expenses breakdowns, contact information, links to 990 tax forms, mission statements, and governance information. Learn more on our blog "Finding Nonprofit Data with GuideStar Pro". Produced by Candid.
GuideStar Pro is only available onsite at the State Library. A limited version of GuideStar is available remotely with free registration.