Federal & State Grant Tracker

Grants can be one of the most valuable sources of capital for farms, energy projects and young companies, because they are usually non-dilutive. This page explains how we approach grant coverage and how you can check any opportunity for yourself. It is general information, not legal or financial advice.

What non-dilutive capital means

Non-dilutive capital is money that does not require you to give up ownership of your business. Grants are the classic example, though related tools such as cooperative agreements, prizes and some loan programs sit nearby. It rarely comes free of obligations. Recipients often have to meet reporting requirements, follow spending rules and deliver agreed outcomes.

Our rule on amounts and deadlines

We do not list funding amounts or deadlines unless we have confirmed them from an official notice of funding opportunity. Programs change, close, reopen and are amended, and a stale number can cost an applicant real time. The table that accompanies this page lists program types and points to official sources instead of reproducing details that may be out of date.

How to verify a grant

• Start with the official website of the agency that runs the program.
• Use the federal government's central grants portal to find the formal funding notice and its terms.
• For state programs, contact your state's economic development or agriculture office.
• Read the full notice, including eligibility, deadlines, the evaluation criteria and the required documents.
• Check the notice date and look for amendments.

Typical steps

Most applications follow a similar path. First comes registration: federal applicants usually need to register their organization in government systems, which can take weeks, so start early. Next is eligibility: confirm that your organization type, location and project qualify. Then check for cost share, where the applicant must contribute part of the project cost in cash or in kind. After an award comes reporting, including financial and progress reports, and sometimes audits. Build the time and staff for that work into your plan.

Beware of grant scams

Legitimate government grant programs do not charge a fee to apply or to receive an award. Be wary of anyone who promises guaranteed money, asks for payment or a processing fee up front, asks for bank details by message, or contacts you unexpectedly claiming you have already won. If you are unsure, go directly to the official agency site, not to a link someone sent you. Never pay to apply.

What we do and do not do

We explain programs, report on how they work in practice and point you to official sources. We do not process applications, we are not affiliated with any agency, and we cannot tell you whether you will qualify. For advice about your own situation, consult a qualified grants professional or adviser.

Spotted something outdated?

Tell us at [email protected], or send a program we should cover to [email protected].