Search Engines, Databases and Tools

This section describes subscription-based search engines, public federal databases, and distribution lists for finding external funding.

Search Engines

Grant Forward

Grant Forward is a searchable database that provides information about funding opportunities from federal, state, foundation, corporate, academic, international, and other types of sponsors in all disciplines. Investigators can register on the system and complete a professional profile.

Foundation Directory Online

Foundation Directory Online offers a free search tool, FDO Quick Start, that provides access to basic information about over 100,000 foundations and 250,000+ IRS forms 990-PF.

Federal Databases

Grants.gov

Grants.gov centralizes grant programs across all federal grant-making agencies. It provides standardized grant information, application packages, and processes for finding and applying for federal grants. Users can search for grants without needing to register with grants.gov.

FedBizOpps

FedBizOpps is the U.S. Government's contracts website for commercial vendors/citizens and government buyers/sponsors. Select federal agencies also list their funding opportunities here. Vendors/citizens can register and set up “search agents” that automatically notify you of opportunities matching your criteria.

  • Interested in contract opportunities? Visit the FedBizOpps’ Getting Started page for demonstration videos, downloadable user guides, and FAQ.

SBIR/STTR

SBIR/STTR (Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Technology Transfer) is a federal grant program that supports the development and commercialization of new technologies in partnership with small business. SBIR/STTR funding opportunities are offered by participating federal agencies including DOA, DOC, DOD, DOEduc, DOEnergy, DHHS, DHS, DOT, EPA, NASA, and NSF.

Distribution Agency List