How to Research Foundation Funders Before You Apply

Good grant research happens before the application. A few minutes of focused review can help you understand what a foundation funds, how much it tends to give, and whether your organization belongs in its pipeline.

Read the current guidelines

Start with the foundation’s own website. Note funding priorities, geography, eligibility, application process, deadlines, and any expenses it will not support.

Review recent giving

Look for grantee lists, annual reports, press releases, or public tax filings when available. Pay attention to organizations similar to yours and the size of awards they received.

Look for patterns

Notice whether the foundation favors established institutions, neighborhood organizations, direct service, advocacy, capital projects, general operating support, or another type of work.

Research relationships

Review trustees, staff, grantee partners, and shared networks. A connection should never replace a strong fit, but a legitimate introduction can help your organization start a more informed conversation.

Write down your alignment case

Before applying, summarize in two or three sentences why your program matches the funder. If that explanation feels forced, the opportunity may belong lower in your priority list.

Build the next step

Use this as a working tool for your organization. Turn the ideas into one or two specific actions, assign ownership, and put a date on the next step. Good From Here is built to help nonprofit founders move from an idea to a stronger, fundable organization with practical systems they can actually use.