Using GRC's GrantSearch Database

GrantSearch is a database with five types of searches:

1. Text or keywords
2. GRC/CFDA Number
3. Subject
4. Activity
5. Sponsor

These search tools may be used individually, or any one tool may be combined with the other four tools. Marking the selection "And," to the right of each tool will combine search capabilities.

1. Text Search. The easiest way to identify funding is to type a descriptor or discipline on the line marked "Text Search: Enter Key Words." When the search criteria is entered, scroll to the bottom of the page and click on the button marked "Start Search." If funding sources are available under that descriptor, GRC will produce a list of agencies. If no sponsors are identified, GRC will prompt the researcher with: "No matches found for the search criteria entered." In order to repeat a search, click on the button at the bottom of the page marked "Reset Form." If insufficient matches were displayed, try using a synonym of the original descriptor or key word(s) similar to the first entry.

2. GRC/CFDA Search. If a principal investigator knows the CFDA number assigned a federal grant by Congress, or the program number designated by GRC, a search can be conducted to retrieve the grant matching either of the specific numbers.

3. Subject Search. GRC provides two pull-down menus under the subject search, Academic Categories, and Academic Subjects. Select the subject(s) best describing the proposed project under Academic Categories. For each subject, numerous subcategories will appear in the second box. Choose the academic subject that best describes the proposed project and click on the tab marked "Add to the Box." When subject topics appear in the box, scroll to the bottom of the page and start the search. Try various subjects or combinations of subjects to best identify appropriate sponsored programs.

4. Activity Search. Review the types of activities that could be supported in a sponsored project. Select the activity or activities that best describe the proposed project. Scroll to the bottom of the page and start the search.

5. Sponsor Search. GRC lists hundreds of public and private sponsors on the Sponsor Search, so the principal investigator can identify the agency or foundation, and review available programs. Many of the discretionary federal programs will be listed in the following federal departments, e.g. the US Department of Education. To locate a specific agency on the GRC list, click on any sponsor, such as the first one, "A.S.P.E.N. Rhoads Research Foundation."Then, tap the key on the keyboard corresponding to the first letter in the sponsor's name, e.g. the letter "u" for US Department of Education. The first sponsor on the list with the first letter "u" will appear on the GRC Subject Search. Scroll to the appropriate sponsor, and start the search. Every discretionary grant program available from the identified sponsor will be listed.