TIPS FOR USING GRANTS.GOV

Are you new to the world of federal grant funding and overwhelmed by the online application process? In recent years, federal grantmaking agencies have started accepting online application submissions, and in some cases requiring applicants submit their grant application via web portals like Grants.gov. While moving registration online from the traditional mail and/or hand delivery may make the process more seamless and less costly, the short window to apply and the extensive registration process can seem daunting. In the paragraphs below, we’ve highlighted some tips and useful tools to use as a reference as you prepare and submit your application.

Does the grant require online submission?
The majority of federal agencies require applications be submitted online using Grants.gov. Some agencies have their own online system for accepting applications, but give potential applicants the option to use the system of their choice.

There are a handful of agencies that do not use Grants.gov. The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) is perhaps the most notable example. When applying to CPB, applications are typically submitted via email. Be sure to read the Request For Proposals (RFP) closely to ensure you are including all the necessary components and applying in the appropriate fashion.

For those still looking to submit their application by hand or mail delivery, a variety of federal agencies will accept both a hard or digital copy of your application. If choosing to submit by mail, be sure to read the instructions closely as some agencies may require you to submit two copies of your application, or provide a CD format as well.

Registering in Grants.gov.
If you are applying through Grants.gov for the first time, it is necessary that your organization registers through a number of different platforms before applying. The required registrations are needed with the following organizations: Data Universal Number System (DUNS), the System for Award Management (SAM) and Grants.gov. Registration instructions are provided at each site to help you through the process. Before you start, be sure to check with the grant administrator, chief financial officer or authorizing official of your organization to determine whether these registrations already exist.

Please note the System for Award Management replaced the Central Contractor Registration (CCR) in July 2012. Those with an active CCR will now have an active SAM, without any added work. However, in order to access your organization’s account via SAM, a new Username and Password will need to be created on the SAM website.  

Applicants are strongly encouraged to begin their applications on Grants.gov early. The registration process usually takes three to five business days but can take as long as four weeks. Be sure to begin registering well in advance of the grant deadline to ensure the application is submitted on time.

Finding and Applying for Grants on Grants.gov.
Grants.gov allows registered organizations and individuals to download applications and apply for federal grant opportunities all in one place. To apply, applicants must fill out the downloaded application package and resubmit online prior to the grant deadline. More detailed instructions, as well as information on how to search for grant opportunities and track the status of one’s application is found in the Application User Guide.

Additional Resources
Applicant Frequently Asked Questions
Submitting Applications Frequently Asked Questions
Applicant User Guide
Life of a Grants.gov Application
Grants.gov Applicant Resources