Most grant applicants must register and secure “active status” from the funders’ online grant submission portal before a grant proposal can be accepted and reviewed. Grant system registration can take days to weeks of time and often must be completed well in advance of an RFP deadline. The steps required to complete a successful and active grant system registration will vary depending on the type of grant you intend to pursue. For example, federal grant system registration involves taxation documentation, contact and location verifications, governance and legal structure information, and specific financial disclosures. Different types of registering entities (i.e., individuals, businesses, local governments, nonprofits) will be directed to complete the forms and uploads unique to their legal structure with extensive supporting documentation. This includes proof of nonprofit status, licensure, certifications, or other specific legal documentation. When all this information is submitted as a registration request, you will receive confirmation of receipt for formal review by the funder. You must then wait for your registration to be approved and marked as active or you’ll be asked to provide additional information for further verification purposes.
