Grant Opportunities - Act Now!

Considering everything going on in our world today, we could not think of a better topic of discussion than grants. There are many ways to obtain funding or grants for your agencies and/or departments. Grants are usually for a specific project or purpose and have strict eligibility guidelines. In many cases the grant priorities will change over time, making most funding sources only temporary.

Our communities rely on our local EMS and Fire Departments to be there in a time of need, but what if something needs repair or doesn’t function properly to get the job done? How do we cover the cost of the life-saving equipment? Thankfully, retired Bazetta Fire Department Chief, Mr. Dennis Lewis of Accelerant Communications has the answers, and we were so grateful to have him in our corner as a wealth of knowledge and resources!

• Things to consider before starting the process:

1. Are you a 501©3?
   1. Most grants will go to organizations that are registered as charitable organizations with the IRS.
2. Do you have a DUNS number?
   1. The Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number is a unique nine-digit identification number.
   2. The Federal government requires that all applicants for Federal grants have a DUNS number. This will be used to better identify related organizations that are receiving funding under grants and to provide consistent name and address data for electronic grant application systems.
   3. You call the following toll-free number to start the process of obtaining your free DUNS number: 1-866-705-5711 or visit http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform
   4. Cited source: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-utl/duns_num_guide.pdf
3. Did you complete your Central Contractor Registration (CCR)?
   1. Recipients of an AFG grant are required to complete the CCR in the SAM.gov system. Active registration in the Central Contractor Registry ensures grantees are compliant with the Federal regulations under the Federal Financial Accountability and Transparency Act (FFATA).
   2. CCR is free and may take 5 – 10 business days to process.
   3. For help with your CCR, please visit SAM.gov for more information.

• Questions to answer when writing a narrative:

1. 1. Who Are You?
   2. Where Are You?
   3. What is Your Risk/Problem?
   4. What is the Solution/Fix?
   5. What Standards will be Met?
   6. What is the Cost/Benefit of the Community?
   7. Be sure to complete this section to the best of your ability!
   8. How Reasonable is Your Request?

• You must demonstrate a clear financial need for the funds you’re applying for!
  • It is helpful to adequately explain the following:
    • Clear financial need
    • Other attempts to fund needs
    • Financial and community trends
    • Your income compared to your expense to show your current funding shortfalls

• Be sure to go into detail explaining how this grant will improve your agency or department in service and/or safety!
  • Detail the frequency of use/utilization
  • Be sure your method is clearly measurable and describe how you will measure results
    • Set SMART goals

A grant is a way the government funds your ideas and projects to provide public services and stimulate the economy. Grants support critical recovery initiatives, innovative research, and many other programs! Don’t hesitate to search and apply for any grants that could be applicable to you and your local departments.

Don’t get overwhelmed – we’re here to help – contact us today at 330-874-1140!