Seeking Federal Stimulus Dollars: Tips From Experts

Act quickly. Deadlines vary, but all require fast turnaround.

Consider whether applying for money is a good use of your organization’s time. If your group has not received federal money before, it faces an uphill battle because the federal government is trying to get money out quickly.

Calculate whether your organization can afford to accept federal money. Government grants do not cover the entire cost of providing services and the money often flows in slowly.

Some of the money will be distributed by states, counties, or cities, so check in with government agencies at all levels.

Small and midsize charities should consider collaborating on applications. Groups that provide job-training services, for example, could offer services in areas of the state with high unemployment, where organizations face trouble meeting demand.

Consider applying for grants to do work in other states where local groups may be ill equipped to provide the needed services.

If your organization gets stimulus money, develop a strategic plan so the aid strengthens the group in the long term.

Document the accomplishments from the stimulus money. By next fall, the public will be asking, “What’s become of the money?”