Not so many people really understand federal grants. Grants.gov says it is “an award of financial aid from a federal agency to a recipient to carry out a public purpose of support or stimulation authorized by a law of the US.”
It simply means this is a sum of money that does not have to be paid back by the recipient. It is offered to finance many projects, such as innovative technologies, medical research, building repairs, social development, education, and other causes.
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Understanding Federal grants is important to make the most out of them. Here are some vital information about this certain type of funding.
Types
Federal grants have many types.
1. Block grants provide huge amounts to state or local governments for a general purpose.
2. Project grants are given to finance projects that involve scientific research pursuits.
3. Formula grants refer to funds mandated by a law, which include categorical funding aid for “narrowly defined purposes.”
4. Earmark grants are funds “explicitly specified in appropriations of the US Congress.”
Categories
More than 1,000 grant programs are offered by 26 federal agencies each year in at least 21 different categories, Grants.gov says. Some of these categories are:
1. arts
2. business and commerce
3. disaster relief
4. labor and training
5. energy
6. food
7. health
8. housing
9. law, justice, and legal services
10. science and tech
Seek Federal Grants
Like funding support offered by private funding sources, these grants are highly competitive. Because of this, many people and groups prefer hiring the services of expert grant writers to make a good proposal. This is but such a good idea since there is a stiff race for funds. Good writing skills can be your edge to beat other grant seekers out there.
Fund-seeking parties should start by searching for a funding opportunities and obtain the application package, which include the guidelines and forms. It is the job of the fund seeker to complete and submit the required documents and other details on or before the set deadline.
Now, a good writer does not just know how to write a proposal and follow certain guidelines. He/she should also possess good writing skills to boost grant seeker’s qualifications. Hire someone who offers cover letter and letter of intent to strengthen your application. Also, look for someone who also offers a list of potential funding sources.
If you can’t make a good written request, seek our help.
