Grant Writing Academy Newsletter

Grant Writing Academy Newsletter

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Grant Writing Academy Newsletter
Grant Writing Academy Newsletter
How to Use Form 990s to Research Foundations

How to Use Form 990s to Research Foundations

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Feb 17, 2025
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Grant Writing Academy Newsletter
Grant Writing Academy Newsletter
How to Use Form 990s to Research Foundations
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How to Use Form 990s to Research Foundations

Every tax-exempt organization in the United States is required to file a version of the Form 990 annually. For foundations—especially private ones—the Form 990-PF is a gold mine of information.

By studying these forms, you can discover:

  • Financial Data: Total assets, revenue, expenses, and the amount granted out over the fiscal year.

  • Grantmaking Patterns: Who received grants and for what purposes. This can reveal a foundation’s priorities and whether your project fits their mission.

  • Governance Information: Lists of board members and top staff. This can help you identify potential connections or networking opportunities.

  • Application Guidelines: Sometimes even details about how and when to apply.

This transparency is crucial for effective grant research and writing a compelling proposal that speaks directly to a foundation’s priorities.

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