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Who is Eligible for a Grant?

Federal grants are not benefits or entitlements to individuals. Grants are intended for projects serving state, community, and local needs. Those seeking funding for projects should first determine the most appropriate sources of funds. Because government funds may be limited, private funds should also be considered.

State and community foundations may be particularly interested in funding local projects; many projects may require a combination of government and private funding. For eligible state and local governments and nonprofit organizations, identifying appropriate programs, and then contacting federal and state agencies early in the process, before submitting formal applications, is recommended.

Who is Eligible for a Grant?

  • Government Organizations
    • State Governments
    • Local Governments
    • City or Township Governments
    • Specific District Governments
    • Native American Tribal Governments (federally recognized)
  • Education Organizations
    • Independent School Districts
    • Public and State Controlled Institutions of Higher Education
    • Private Institutions of Higher Education
  • Public Housing Organizations
    • Public Housing Authorities
    • Indian Housing Authorities
  • Non-Profit Organizations
    • Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education
  • Small Businesses
    • Small business loans and grants may be awarded to companies that meet the size standards that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has established for most industries in the economy.

    • The most common size standards are as follows
      • 500 employees for most manufacturing and mining industries
      • 100 employees for all wholesale trade industries
      • $6 million for most retail and service industries
      • $28.5 million for most general & heavy construction industries
      • $12 million for all special trade contractors
      • $0.75 million for most agricultural industries
  • Individuals
    • An individual submits a grant on their behalf, and not on behalf of a company, organization, institution, or government. Individuals sign the grant application and its associated certifications and assurances that are necessary to fulfill the requirements of the application process.

    • If you register as an Individual, you will only be able to apply to grant opportunities that are open to individuals. An individual cannot submit a grant application to a grant opportunity that is just open to organizations.