Eligibility Criteria for Federal Government Grant Recipients
Learn about the eligibility requirements for organizations and individuals to receive federal government grants. Discover which entities qualify, including government bodies, educational institutions, nonprofits, and small businesses. Foreign applicants also need to adhere to specific regulations, ensuring a smooth application process for federal funding opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria for Organizations Receiving Federal Grants
Applying for a federal grant is free, but not everyone qualifies. Knowing the eligibility requirements helps streamline the application process and avoid wasted effort. Grants can be awarded to both organizations and individuals. Eligible organizations include:
Government entities
State Governments
County Governments
District Authorities
City Governments
Native American Tribal Governments (recognized and unrecognized)
Educational Institutions
Independent School Districts
Public and State-controlled Higher Education Institutions
Private Higher Education Institutions
Other eligible entities and individuals
Public Housing Authorities and Indian Housing Authorities
Nonprofit Organizations, with or without 501(c)3 status, excluding higher education institutions
Organizations other than small businesses
Small businesses can qualify through the Small Business Administration (SBA), which sets size standards for grant eligibility
Individuals can apply independently for certain programs
Applicants can submit individual profiles for grants dedicated solely to individuals. Since most funding supports organizations, individual applicants should explore all federal funding options before applying.
Foreign applicants, whether individuals or organizations, must meet specific criteria, including additional documentation. Grants granted to foreign entities depend on legislative authority and agency policies. They may need to file tax returns using a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) or Employer Identification Number (EIN), especially if funds are used within the U.S. for scholarships, fellowships, or awards. For activities outside the U.S., TIN/EIN may not be required.
