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Grant Tutorial (U.S & Canada)

  • Writer: Rabeel Qureshi
    Rabeel Qureshi
  • Mar 15, 2025
  • 3 min read





Ever wondered how to get top money for funding your organizations here in Edmonton? See our comprehensive guide below:

Grant Tutorial for Non-Profits in Edmonton: How to Secure Federal Government Grants

Non-profit organizations play a crucial role in providing essential services and support to communities. To enhance your organization's capacity and impact, securing grants from the federal government of Canada and the US can be a significant boost. This tutorial will guide you through the process of finding, applying for, and managing these grants. We will use a simple and comprehensive approach, complete with examples to illustrate key points.


1. Understanding Federal Grants


What Are Federal Grants?

Federal grants are funds provided by the government to non-profit organizations, businesses, and individuals for specific purposes. These grants do not need to be repaid, but they often come with strict guidelines and reporting requirements.


Types of Federal Grants

  1. Project Grants: For specific projects or activities.

  2. Program Grants: To support a program over a period.

  3. Capacity Building Grants: To enhance an organization’s effectiveness.

  4. Operating Grants: For day-to-day operations.


2. Finding Federal Grants


Canadian Federal Grants

Sources

  1. Grants.gov: The primary source for federal grant opportunities in Canada.

  2. Canada Revenue Agency (CRA): Offers various grants and funding programs.

  3. Departmental Websites: Specific departments like Heritage Canada, Environment Canada, etc., provide grants related to their field.


US Federal Grants

Sources

  1. Grants.gov: The go-to portal for federal grants in the United States.

  2. Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA): Lists all federal assistance programs available.

  3. Specific Agency Websites: Departments like the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the US Department of Education, etc., have dedicated grant pages.


3. Preparing to Apply


Eligibility Criteria

  • Ensure your organization meets the eligibility requirements for the grant.

  • Non-profit status must be verified.

  • Specific grants may require certain types of projects or target populations.


Required Documents

  • Proof of non-profit status (e.g., CRA registration or 501(c)(3) status in the US).

  • Financial statements and budgets.

  • Organizational history and mission statement.

  • Project proposals or plans.


4. Writing a Strong Grant Proposal


Key Components

  1. Executive Summary: Brief overview of your organization and the project.

  2. Need Statement: Why the project is necessary.

  3. Goals and Objectives: What you aim to achieve.

  4. Project Description: Detailed plan of activities and timelines.

  5. Budget: Detailed budget outlining how the grant money will be spent.

  6. Evaluation Plan: How you will measure the project's success.


Tips for a Compelling Proposal

  • Be clear and concise.

  • Use data and evidence to support your need statement.

  • Highlight your organization’s strengths and past successes.

  • Tailor each proposal to the specific grant’s requirements.


5. Applying for Grants


Canadian Federal Grants

  1. Identify a Grant: Use sources like Grants.gov to find suitable grants.

  2. Register: Ensure your organization is registered with the necessary federal systems (e.g., CRA’s My Business Account).

  3. Submit Proposal: Follow the instructions provided in the grant announcement.


US Federal Grants

  1. Identify a Grant: Use Grants.gov to find suitable grants.

  2. DUNS Number: Obtain a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number.

  3. SAM Registration: Register with the System for Award Management (SAM).

  4. Submit Proposal: Use Grants.gov to submit your application.


Example


Grant Application Example:

In 2024, the Edmonton Food Bank applied for a $100,000 project grant from the Canadian federal government to expand its food distribution network. Here’s a simplified breakdown of their application process:


  1. Proceeds of Application $100,000A

  2. Adjusted cost base (expenses for application preparation) $2,000B

  3. Outlays and expenses on disposition $500C

  4. Line B plus line C = $2,500D

  5. Net Grant Proceeds (line A minus line D) = $97,500E


The Edmonton Food Bank reports $98,500 as the net amount requested in their grant application, demonstrating how the funds will be used to achieve the project goals.


6. Post-Grant Management


Reporting Requirements

  • Regular progress reports.

  • Financial reports showing how funds were used.

  • Final report at the end of the grant period.


Compliance

  • Adhere to the grant agreement terms.

  • Maintain thorough records of expenditures and activities.


Conclusion


Securing federal grants from the governments of Canada and the US can provide essential funding for non-profits in Edmonton. By understanding the types of grants available, preparing a strong proposal, and complying with all requirements, your organization can significantly enhance its ability to serve the community. Remember to leverage available resources, seek expert advice when needed, and stay organized throughout the process.

For more detailed guidance, consider consulting with a grant professional or attending workshops and training sessions on grant writing and management.



 
 
 

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