Grant Eligibility
Who is Eligible?
Determining whether you are eligible to apply for and receive a federal grant is very important. If you are not legally eligible for a specific funding opportunity, you would waste time and money completing an application you cannot receive.
The first step is to know what type of organization you represent (or whether you are applying as an individual). Once you know that, check your eligibility below.
Government Organizations
- State governments
- County governments
- City or township governments
- Special district governments
- Native American tribal governments (federally recognized)
- Native American tribal governments (other than federally recognized)
Education Organizations
- Independent school districts
- Public and state controlled institutions of higher education
- Private institutions of higher education
Public Housing Organizations
- Public housing authorities
- Indian housing authorities
Nonprofit Organizations
- Nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status (other than institutions of higher education)
- Nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status (other than institutions of higher education)
For-Profit Organizations
Includes organizations other than small businesses.
Small Businesses
Small business grants may be awarded to companies meeting the size standards established by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
Individuals
Individual applicants may apply on their own behalf. If registered with an individual applicant profile, you can only apply for funding opportunities open to individuals.
Most opportunities are for organizations. For personal financial assistance, see the Grant Programs section for other government funding options.
Foreign Applicants
Foreign individuals or organizations may apply if authorized by legislation or agency policy. They must complete the same registration as domestic applicants, with additional steps as needed (such as obtaining a Taxpayer Identification Number or Employer Identification Number).
Review the latest IRS guidance for international taxpayers before applying.