Grant Resources

Where to look for Grants?

There are several databases and websites where you can look up grant opportunities for small businesses in California. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • Grants.gov: This is a federal government website that lists grant opportunities from various federal agencies, including those that may be applicable to businesses in California.
  • California Grants Portal: This website provides a comprehensive list of grant opportunities available to California residents and businesses. You can search for grants by category, agency, or keyword.
  • CalGOLD: The California Government Online to Desktops (CalGOLD) website provides information on permits, licenses, and regulations that businesses in California need to comply with. It also includes information on grant programs that may be available to businesses.
  • Foundation Directory Online (FDO): FDO is a database of grantmakers and their funding opportunities. You can search for grants by location, subject area, and other criteria to find potential funding sources for your business in California.
  • GrantWatch: GrantWatch is a website that aggregates grant opportunities from various sources, including government agencies, foundations, and corporations. You can search for grants by location and category to find opportunities that match your business's needs.
  • Small Business Administration (SBA) Grants: The SBA offers grants and funding programs for small businesses, including those in California. You can visit the SBA website to learn more about available grants and how to apply.
  • Sierra Nevada Conservancy: SNC offers a funding newsletter. You can sign up to stay informed or view online.

These are just a few examples of databases and websites where you can search for grant opportunities for small businesses in California. It's also a good idea to check with local chambers of commerce, business associations, and nonprofit organizations for additional resources and support.

Basic Guide for Grants

Here is a basic guide for what the cycle of a grant life looks like. It can be helpful to use these steps with a strategic plan, aligning funding opportunities with current programmatic or organizational goals.

  • Understand Your Business Needs: Before you start searching for grants, identify your business's specific needs and goals. This will help you narrow down the types of grants that are most relevant to you.
  • Research Available Grants: There are several ways to find grants for small businesses in California. You can:
    1. Visit the California state government website and look for grant opportunities for small businesses.
    2. Check with local business organizations, chambers of commerce, and economic development agencies for grant programs specific to your area.
    3. Use online grant search engines such as Grants.gov, Foundation Directory Online, or GrantWatch to search for grants that match your business needs.
  • Review Grant Eligibility Criteria: Once you've identified potential grant opportunities, carefully review the eligibility criteria to ensure that your business qualifies. Pay attention to factors such as location, industry, and business size.
  • Prepare Your Business Documents: Before applying for a grant, gather all the necessary documents, including your business plan, financial statements, tax returns, and any other relevant information. Having these documents ready will make the application process smoother.
  • Write a Compelling Grant Proposal: Most grant applications require a written proposal outlining your business's goals, how the grant funds will be used, and the expected outcomes. Make sure your proposal is clear, concise, and compelling.
  • Submit Your Grant Application: Once your proposal is ready, submit your grant application according to the instructions provided by the grantor. Double-check that you've included all required documents and information.
  • Follow Up: After submitting your application, follow up with the grantor to ensure that they have received it and to inquire about the timeline for award announcements. Be prepared to provide additional information if requested.
  • Monitor Your Grant Application: Keep track of the status of your grant application and be prepared to provide updates or additional information if requested by the grantor.
  • Prepare for Reporting Requirements: If you are awarded a grant, be prepared to fulfill reporting requirements, such as providing progress reports and documenting the use of grant funds.
  • Explore Other Funding Options: While waiting to hear back about your grant application, continue to explore other funding options, such as loans, crowdfunding, or other types of grants, to support your business's growth and sustainability.

Resources for Writing Your Grant

Sitting down to write your grant can be daunting. Below are some resources to help break through the writer's block and get the work done:

  • Grant Writing USA: Offers online grant writing courses, webinars, and workshops covering various aspects of grant proposal development.
  • The Grantsmanship Center: Provides online training programs, webinars, and workshops on grant proposal development and grant management.
  • Udemy: Offers a range of online courses on grant writing, including beginner to advanced levels, taught by experienced instructors.
  • Coursera: Provides online courses on grant writing and fundraising from universities and institutions around the world.
  • LinkedIn Learning: Offers online courses on grant writing, grant management, and related topics, with content from industry experts. Available for free with a Plumas County Library Card on the Plumas County Library Page.
  • NonprofitReady: Provides free online courses on grant writing, fundraising, and nonprofit management, designed for nonprofit professionals.
  • Candid: Offers online training courses, webinars, and resources on grant writing, fundraising, and nonprofit management.
  • Grant Professionals Association (GPA): Offers online learning opportunities, including webinars and virtual conferences, for grant professionals.

These online resources offer a range of options for grant writers to improve their skills, learn best practices, and stay updated on the latest trends in grant writing and fundraising.