Grant funding: Back to basics

I must say this month has really been a struggle for me to determine the best topic of choice when it comes to outside-the-box grants. So much of a struggle that it was almost like writing an actual grant. Over the past couple of months, I have received several questions from various EMS agencies asking about what grants their agencies might be eligible for and where they could get money to fund new initiatives and/or provide capital for operational expenses.

What do grants fund?

The answer to this is about as broad as the number of grants that are actually available. As I have mentioned, Firehouse Subs will provide funding to public safety agency equipment purchases, while the Wal-Mart Foundation will support grants for health and wellness and workforce development. The National Institute of Health will provide grants for organizations to host a small- or large-scale healthcare conference, and the Assistance to Firefighters Grants will put new equipment on the units. Most grant organizations fail to provide funding for annual operational expenses. I’m not saying they do not exist (and I am looking for you); I am just saying that they are rare.

How do I know what a grant will fund?

Sometimes it can be easy to overlook all the possibilities a grant has to offer. The first thing any organization should do when applying for a grant is to read the grant guidance document. Some grantors will provide these documents in an easy-to-read, printable format, while others maintain their guidance on the website publicizing the funds. I suggest that while reading the grant guidance you employ a second, third, or even fourth pair of eyes on the guidance document to ensure you didn’t overlook a potential funding source. And lastly, if you're not sure, put your best foot forward and try. Every opportunity in the grant community is an opportunity to learn. You will learn terminology, processes, and tips on making the submissions even better for future opportunities.

How do I find grants that will help us?

You are in the right place. EMS Grants Help is an excellent source of information that can help you in various areas of the grant process. Information is available on the basics of the grants process in the Grants 101 section. Resources and support with the writing process are also available. The website is updated with a grant ticker that provides articles on funded grant opportunities to open your eyes to funding sources.

In addition to the EMS Grants Help website, you can visit your friendly search engine to scour the Web for funding opportunities available to public safety organizations. I have mentioned some sources already, but in the coming months, I will talk about approaching state and federal government as part of potential funding sources, philanthropic trusts, and other outside-the-box funding ideas.

However, in the meantime, gather as many details about your funding needs, your organization (both fiscal and physical), and your coverage areas (include high-threat environments such as hazardous materials plants or multiple nursing homes). Determine your organization's ability to fund cost-sharing or matching grants. This will put you ahead of the competition when it comes to writing your grants.

Until next month, take care and stay safe.