How to Tap State & Local Government Grants Like a Pro

Since federal grants are becoming harder to obtain, consider applying for state and local grants to secure funding. Many state and local grants offer funding in technology, research, innovation, and science that support federal priorities. Pursuing state and local grants offers multiple advantages:

• Alternative funding sources to sustain projects

• Diversified funding, reducing federal reliance
• Potentially quicker funding decisions
• Strategic positioning for future opportunities at both the state and federal level

How to Find Grant Opportunities

All state and local governments have their own grants websites. FederalGrants.com and Grants.gov are also good places to look for upcoming projects.  

How to Build Relationships with State and Local Officials to Obtain Grant Funding

To obtain grant funding, build business relationships with state and local government officials. You can do this by:

• Introducing yourself at state and local meetings
• Connecting with past grant recipients for guidance
• Attending industry conferences, workshops, and seminars
• Joining professional associations that share relevant grant information
• Engaging with local business development centers, universities, and research centers
• Contacting local chambers of commerce for information on state grants

How to Submit a State and Local Government Grant Application

Many states have their own online portals for grant applicant submissions. Users must create an account and should become familiar with the portal prior to submitting the application. Don’t wait until the last minute to create your account or you may be unable to submit the application. The application process may be complex or unfamiliar, so read the instructions carefully and contact the relevant state or local government grant official if you have problems.  Additionally, keep in mind that:

• Smaller budgets may mean higher competition and lower awards
• Eligibility criteria may be restrictive due to regional priorities
• Deadlines can be unpredictable; use tracking tools for federal grants and adjust them as needed
• Limited guidance may be available, so connect with previous recipients for insights

Conclusion

With federal grants becoming more challenging to secure, state and local options offer promising funding avenues. At Lohfeld Consulting, we provide a comprehensive suite of services to help you develop and submit your grant applications. Contact us to learn how we can help you achieve success!

Relevant Information: 

• How to Master Post-Freeze Grants: A Survival Guide

• Proven Strategies to Build Relationships with Grant Officers

• VIDEO: Secrets to Winning a Government Grant

By Dana Katalinas, Vice President, APMP Member, GPA Member

Lohfeld Consulting Group has proven results specializing in helping companies create winning captures and proposals. As the premier capture and proposal services consulting firm focused exclusively on government markets, we provide expert assistance to government contractors in Capture Planning and Strategy, Proposal Management and Writing, Capture and Proposal Process and Infrastructure, and Training. In the last 3 years, we’ve supported over 550 proposals winning more than $170B for our clients—including the Top 10 government contractors. Lohfeld Consulting Group is your “go-to” capture and proposal source! Start winning by contacting us at www.lohfeldconsulting.com and join us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube^(TM).