Tips for Effectively Searching for Funders in the Foundation Directory
As the 2025 funding cycle kicks off, here are some tips to help you make the most of your searches in the Foundation Directory.
Start by answering these three key questions:
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What do you need funding for? Define whether it’s for a specific project, program, or broader organizational goals.
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Where do you need funding? Identify the geographic location but avoid narrowing the search too much—using just “Oregon” instead of “Central Oregon” helps ensure you don’t miss key funders.
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Who are you serving? Think about the specific population, such as age, gender, or socioeconomic status. This step can fine-tune your search results.
Now simplify these answers into a short phrase (e.g., “Food Pantry in Oregon”) and enter it into the search bar. The Foundation Directory will match your criteria with relevant funders. You can refine results further by clicking “Advanced Search & Filters.”
Key tips:
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Avoid using the "Location" filter. This can limit your results to only local funders, which might not capture all opportunities.
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Include U.S. Federal Funders. The federal government offers significant funding and should be part of your search.
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Don’t exclude funders not currently accepting applications. Even if they’re closed for submissions, building a relationship can secure future funding.
For more tips, check out Candid’s YouTube videos, and if you need help, don’t hesitate to use the Book-a-Librarian service.
Happy searching!
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