If you’ve ever searched “What is the best website to find grants?” or “Can a normal person get a grant?” — you’re not alone. Every month, thousands of people type similar questions into Google hoping to find relief, direction, and real opportunities. This article cuts through the noise and delivers the answers you need about getting grant money, especially if you’re struggling financially or just trying to fund your next big project.
Let’s break down some of the most common questions people ask about grants, while offering clear, actionable answers — and yes, all from the perspective of a real-life grant writer.
What Is the Best Website to Find Grants?
For individuals and nonprofits alike, the best website to find grants depends on your needs:
- Grants.gov — The gold standard for federal grants. It’s ideal for nonprofits, researchers, and small businesses.
- Foundation Directory Online (FDO) — A paid tool used by professional grant writers to locate private foundation grants.
- GrantWatch — Offers updated listings for individuals, nonprofits, and businesses.
- TheForGoodCommunity.com — Focuses on youth development, equity, and health-based grants.
- If researching and tracking grants feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. If you need a professional team to find your funding and handle the search for you, visit GrantCraftPlus.com. We help clients locate real opportunities and make sure they’re applied for the right way.
How Can I Get Money If I’m Struggling?
Grants for individuals in financial crisis do exist, although they’re less publicized. Look into:
- Emergency financial assistance from local nonprofits
- Utility and rent assistance programs through community action agencies
- Specialized grants like the Amber Grant for women entrepreneurs
Most importantly, avoid scams. If someone says you’ve “won” a grant you didn’t apply for, it’s fake.
Can a Normal Person Get a Grant?
Yes. And here’s the secret: most people who win grants are not celebrities, CEOs, or scholars. They’re regular people — artists, single parents, caregivers, students — who take time to learn how to apply properly. Grants are not just for nonprofits.
Search for individual artist grants, emergency relief grants, or education grants. Many are designed specifically to support those living paycheck to paycheck.
Is a Grant a Loan or Free?
Grants are free money. You don’t repay them — but you do have to follow the rules. For example, if a grant is for your business, you may need to submit progress reports or budget documents.
This is why grant writing skills are important: using strong grant keywords, sticking to the guidelines, and showing measurable impact make a difference.
What Are the Four Types of Federal Grants?
According to Grants.gov and other federal sources, the four main types of federal grants are:
- Competitive Grants — Based on merit (you apply, and the best proposals win)
- Formula Grants — Distributed based on a formula (often population or need-based)
- Continuation Grants — Provide additional funding for existing grantees
- Pass-Through Grants — Given to a state or agency, which then distributes to others
Understanding these types can help you target the right funding source for your goals.
What Is the Most Common Grant?
Educational grants — especially Pell Grants — are among the most common in the U.S. But beyond education, community development block grants (CDBGs) and nonprofit operating grants are widely distributed.
If you’re wondering, how much is the average grant? It varies:
- Personal grants: $500 to $5,000
- Nonprofit grants: $10,000 to $100,000+
- Federal research or infrastructure grants: Millions
What Are the Odds of Getting a Grant?
It depends on the grant, but here’s a realistic breakdown:
- Small local or individual grants: 1 in 10
- State-level grants: 1 in 20
- Federal competitive grants: 1 in 30+
Strong writing, keyword-rich proposals, and proper formatting improve your chances significantly. This is where knowing the buzzwords for grant writing — like “measurable outcomes,” “community impact,” and “scalable solutions” — comes in.
Is the Amber Grant Real?
Yes, the Amber Grant Foundation is a legitimate source of funding for women entrepreneurs. Each month, it awards at least $10,000 to a woman starting or growing a business. You can apply directly on their website, and they do not require extensive business plans — just a compelling story and a clear purpose.
Can You Be Denied a Grant?
Absolutely. Common reasons for denial include:
- Incomplete applications
- Vague goals or budgets
- Applying to the wrong type of grant
- Ignoring grant keywords and priorities
But being denied once doesn’t mean you won’t win next time. Persistence is part of grant success.
How to Apply for HUD Grant Money
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers several funding programs, including:
- Community Development Block Grants
- Section 202 and 811 housing grants
- Housing Choice Vouchers
You typically need to apply through a local public housing agency or nonprofit partner. HUD doesn’t give grants directly to individuals for personal housing projects — but HUD loans can be explored instead.
What Disqualifies You from an FHA or HUD Loan?
- Credit score below 500
- Lack of steady income
- High debt-to-income ratio
- Prior foreclosure (depending on circumstances)
But don’t worry — grants are different than loans, and disqualifications vary less. Many grants focus more on your mission, purpose, or project than your financial past.
How Do I Know If a Grant Is Legitimate?
Look for these signs:
- It has a clear website and eligibility criteria
- There is no fee to apply
- They provide a timeline and contact info
- They’re listed on Candid, Grants.gov, or Foundation Directory Online
If they ask you to pay money upfront to receive money, it’s a scam.
Final Thoughts: Are Grants a Good Idea?
Yes — grants are one of the most underused tools to launch your vision, fund your education, stabilize your life, or grow your business. Whether you’re an individual, small business owner, or creative, there’s a grant out there for you.
But here’s the kicker: you have to show up. That means:
- Searching weekly
- Learning how to write grants (or hiring someone)
- Using powerful grant writing keywords
- Being okay with hearing “no” before you hear “yes”
If you’re a for-profit business, nonprofit, or individual looking for funding but don’t know where to start, GrantCraftPlus.com can help. We specialize in writing grants and federal proposals that align with your mission — and we make sure they’re submitted professionally and on time.
So the next time you Google, “Who can give me money right now?” — know this: with the right strategy, that answer could be you.