Individual donors are critical to non-profit organizations because they often represent the largest portion of funding, providing a stable and diverse revenue stream, fostering deeper community engagement, and allowing for a more personal connection with the cause, unlike grants, which typically have some restrictions on usage. Most non-profits are built on using individual donations, and many non-profits use individual donations to fund expenses, such as overhead costs, which are typically not allowable ingrants.

Corporations give grants, also known as "corporate philanthropy", to support non-profit organizations and community initiatives as a way to demonstrate social responsibility, enhance their public image, engage employees, build community relations, and often receive tax benefits by contributing to worthy causes that align with their company values. Corporations typically prioritize organizations within their communities, as their support can help improve the quality of life in the communities where a company operates, potentially leading to a better business environment, employee satisfaction, and return community support. Consider which for-profit businesses (e.g. grocery stores, banks, etc.) are thriving in your community. The Grant Atlas is a resource for identifying opportunities to support your organization's initiatives.

A foundation grant is a financial award given by a non-profit organization or charitable trust to support another nonprofit, institution, or individual. Foundations can be private or public. A board of directors makes decisions about how to give, often within specific guidelines, such grant priorities. The Grant Atlas is a resource for identifying opportunities to support your organization's initiatives.

County grants are awards of money from a county government to fund projects and ideas that benefit the public. Grants are a way for local governments to redistribute resources and address community needs. Search your county's website for "grants" or "grant opportunities.".

A state grant is a financial award given by a state government to support a specific project or initiative within the state. State grants often require more documentation than foundation and corporate grants due to stricter reporting requirements, such as more frequent reports and audits. Search your states website for "grants" or "grant opportunities"

A federal grant is a financial award from the United States federal government to support a public purpose. The government uses grants to fund projects that stimulate the economy and provide public services. While federal grants can benefit country-wide and even global initiatives, many opportunities are state- or region-driven. Federal grants are typically more competitive and have a significant number of compliance and reporting requirements. Search for federal grant opportunities at: grants.gov/search-grants.Use the filters to ensure the request for proposals (RFP) listed apply to your specific type of organization ("eligibility") and cause("category")