Best Grant Prospect Research Databases of 2026

One of the questions I'm asked most frequently is: where do you find grant opportunities?

If you're running out of prospects or your searches keep turning up the same handful of funders, here's a startling fact: ninety percent of foundations do not have websites.

That means if you're only searching Google, you're missing out on the vast majority of funding opportunities. This is where grant prospect research databases come in. These specialized tools give you access to hundreds of thousands of grantmaker profiles that you simply cannot find through a standard internet search.

After testing dozens of databases over the years, I've narrowed it down to three tried-and-true leaders plus one newcomer worth your attention in 2026. Let's dig in.

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What's in This Article

• Criteria We Use to Evaluate Databases

• The Best Grant Prospect Research Databases of 2026

• Quick Comparison: Which Database Includes What?

• Pricing Summary

• Pro Tip: Why You Should Rotate Databases

• Frequently Asked Questions

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Criteria We Use to Evaluate Databases

Not all grant databases are created equal. To determine the best options for 2026, we evaluated each platform against these criteria:

Number of Funder Profiles: How many grantmaker profiles are in the database? Competition is fierce for the best-known funders. Finding lesser-known grantmakers decreases competition and increases your likelihood of success.

Types of Funders Included: Does the database include private foundations only, or does it also cover government grants, corporate giving, clubs and associations, donor-advised funds, or international funders? The broader the coverage, the more opportunities you'll discover.

No Limitations by Grant Amount: Some databases exclude grantmakers who give under a threshold amount, such as $5,000. Small and rural organizations depend on these smaller grants, so we excluded databases with these limitations.

Mapping Features: The ability to plot where grants were given on a map helps you pinpoint the specific locations where funders make grants. Many grantmakers limit their giving to specific geographies, so seeing exactly where grants have been made helps you determine which funders to prioritize.

Email Reminders and Alerts: The best databases send you deadline reminders and new opportunities to review. Remembering to log into a database is far less effective than having opportunities delivered to your inbox.

Grants Management Capabilities: Can you track the grants you have submitted and plan to submit within the database? Some platforms allow you to create task lists, monitor deadlines, and manage your entire pipeline.

AI-Powered Features: New for 2026, we're evaluating whether databases incorporate artificial intelligence to improve prospect matching, provide explanations for why funders align with your organization, or offer personalized recommendations.

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The Best Grant Prospect Research Databases of 2026

1. Instrumentl

Instrumentl continues to lead the pack with the most comprehensive funder database on the market. What sets Instrumentl apart is how it works behind the scenes for you. Once you set up a project—something you want funding for—the platform keeps doing the research automatically and emails you new matches as they're discovered. You're not just searching once; you have an ongoing research assistant working in the background.

The database accuracy is exceptional. Instrumentl has a large staff constantly updating funder profiles to ensure the information you're seeing is current. Like Candid, Instrumentl also provides AI-powered funder recommendations with explanations for why each funder aligns with your organization—so you're not just getting a list, you're getting context.

The platform combines prospecting with pipeline management, allowing you to track prospects through the entire grant lifecycle from identification to submission to award.

One unique feature worth noting: Instrumentl includes donor-advised funds (DAFs) in their database. DAFs are notoriously difficult to research because they don't file their own 990s, so having them searchable here is a significant advantage.

INSTRUMENTL AT A GLANCE

Funder Profiles: 410,000 (the largest)

Funder Types: Private foundations, corporate funders, federal & state government, community foundations, clubs & societies, donor-advised funds

Pricing (monthly, with annual subscription):

• Basic: $179/month

• Core: $299/month

• Pro Consultant: $499/month

Free Trial: Yes — Spark the Fire readers get a three-week free trial (instead of the standard two weeks) plus $50 off with code SPARKTHEFIRE50

Standout Features: Automated ongoing research, AI-powered funder matching with explanations, DAF inclusion, and excellent grants management

Best For: Organizations wanting prospecting and pipeline management unified in one powerful system with ongoing automated research

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2. Candid

Big news for 2026: Candid Search officially launched on January 15, 2026, finally merging GuideStar and Foundation Directory data into a single platform. This is the culmination of the 2019 merger, and it's been worth the wait.

The new platform consolidates 1.9 million organizations, 3 million annual grant transactions, and $180 billion in annual grant dollars in one place. No more switching between sites to access nonprofit and funder data.

Candid has long set the industry standard for geographic mapping—you can pinpoint where a foundation makes grants down to the city, county, or even legislative district. This level of granularity saves significant research time. The new platform adds AI-powered funder recommendations with explanations for why each funder aligns with your organization, plus personalized dashboards that learn from your searches.

Here's something remarkable: The pricing dropped from approximately $299/month to around $100/month for Premium. That's a 66% decrease for the industry-standard research tool.

And here's something exciting for small nonprofits: Organizations with under $1 million in revenue or operating expenses can get Candid Premium for FREE when they earn a Gold Seal of Transparency. If you haven't claimed your Candid profile yet, now is the time. (Stay tuned—I'm working on a guide to help you earn your Gold Seal.)

CANDID AT A GLANCE

Funder Profiles: 304,000

Funder Types: Private & independent foundations, corporate foundations, public charities, U.S. federal funders (new with 2026 platform), international foundations

Pricing (monthly, with annual subscription): Approximately $100/month for Premium (down from $299!)

Free Access: Small nonprofits under $1M revenue get Premium FREE with a Gold Seal of Transparency

Free Trial: No

Standout Features: Best-in-class geographic mapping (down to legislative district), merged GuideStar + Foundation Directory data, AI-powered recommendations, data visualization coming soon

Best For: Deep researchers who want industry-standard data and small nonprofits who can access Premium for free through the Gold Seal program

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3. GrantStation

GrantStation was acquired by Elios Media Group in September 2024 and launched a refreshed dashboard in May 2025. The platform continues to offer comprehensive filter-based prospect research with an intuitive, easy-to-understand taxonomy.

What I appreciate about GrantStation is its accessibility and breadth of funder types. The interface is clean and straightforward—you don't need extensive training to start finding prospects.

GrantStation has two unique features you won't find elsewhere:

First, it's the only database that includes a specific filter for clubs and associations—think Rotary, Lions Club, Kiwanis, Elks, and similar organizations. If you're a smaller nonprofit looking for community-based funders, this is a significant advantage.

Second, GrantStation includes giving circles—groups of individuals who pool their money and decide together where to give. These funders are nearly impossible to find through other databases.

The platform also separates U.S., Canadian, and international funders into distinct search engines, making it easier to focus your research geographically. You can search U.S. charitable, federal, and state funders, plus Canadian charitable and government funders, plus international charitable funders—all through dedicated search tools.

GRANTSTATION AT A GLANCE

Funder Profiles: 150,000

Funder Types: Private foundations, corporate foundations, community foundations, corporate giving programs, faith-based funders, clubs & associations (Rotary, Lions, etc.), giving circles, U.S. federal & state government, Canadian government, international funders

Pricing (monthly, with annual subscription): $58/month ($699/year) regular price, or $12/month ($140/year) with the Spark the Fire discount code

Free Trial: No, but at this price point, the risk is minimal

Standout Features: Only database with clubs/associations filter, includes giving circles, broadest funder type coverage, separate search engines for U.S./Canadian/international

Best For: Organizations new to prospect research, those on tight budgets, or anyone seeking clubs, associations, and giving circles as funders

Email me at allison@sparkthefiregrantwriting.com to request the discount code.

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4. Grant Frog — The Newcomer

Grant Frog started as a grants management platform and has expanded into prospect research—and they've done it well. Their Foundation and Grant Discovery Database now includes 190,000 funders, pulled directly from IRS 990 forms.

What makes Grant Frog interesting is that it was built from the ground up for grants management by a working grant professional. If your primary need is tracking proposals, reports, deadlines, and funder relationships—and you also want solid prospecting built in—Grant Frog offers both in one affordable package.

The platform includes team collaboration features, automated email reminders, and task tracking. It's designed for organizations that want to run a structured grants program without juggling multiple tools.

One limitation to note: Because Grant Frog pulls data from 990 forms, the database includes foundations as well as some clubs, associations, and corporations. If you need government funding, you'll want to pair Grant Frog with Grants.gov.

GRANT FROG AT A GLANCE

Funder Profiles: 190,000

Funder Types: Private foundations (data sourced from IRS 990 forms; does not include government grants)

Pricing (monthly, with annual subscription):

• Essentials: $99/month (2 users, 200 proposals)

• Professional: $149/month (4 users, 1,000 proposals)

• Premium: $349/month (10 users, 3,000 proposals)

Free Trial: Yes, 14 days with no credit card required

Standout Features: Excellent grants management, team collaboration, built by a grant writer for grant writers, 990 data visualization

Best For: Teams wanting solid prospecting with built-in grants management and collaboration features

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Quick Comparison: Which Database Includes What?

Looking for federal or state government grants? ✓ Instrumentl ✓ GrantStation ✓ Candid (new with 2026 platform) ✗ Grant Frog

Looking for clubs and associations (Rotary, Lions, Kiwanis)? ✓ GrantStation (dedicated filter — unique!) ✓ Instrumentl ✗ Candid ✗ Grant Frog

Looking for giving circles? ✓ GrantStation (unique!) ✗ Others

Looking for donor-advised funds (DAFs)? ✓ Instrumentl (unique!) ✗ Others

Looking for international funders? ✓ GrantStation (dedicated search engine) ✓ Candid ✓ Instrumentl ✗ Grant Frog

Need excellent grants management built in? ✓ Instrumentl (excellent) ✓ Grant Frog (excellent) ○ Candid (basic) ○ GrantStation (basic)

Need AI-powered features? ✓ Instrumentl ✓ Candid ✗ GrantStation ○ Grant Frog (limited)

Best geographic mapping? Candid leads (down to city, county, legislative district), followed by Instrumentl

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Pricing Summary

All prices shown as monthly rate with annual subscription

Instrumentl

• Basic: $179/month

• Core: $299/month

• Pro Consultant: $499/month

• Free 3-week trial + $50 off with code SPARKTHEFIRE50

Candid

• Premium: ~$100/month (down from $299!)

• FREE for small nonprofits (under $1M revenue) with Gold Seal of Transparency

GrantStation

• Regular: $58/month ($699/year)

• With Spark the Fire code: $12/month ($140/year)

• Email allison@sparkthefiregrantwriting.com for discount code

Grant Frog

• Essentials: $99/month

• Professional: $149/month

• Premium: $349/month

• 14-day free trial available

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Pro Tip: Why You Should Rotate Databases

Here's something I've discovered after years of prospect research: you can find a grantmaker in one database, cross-reference it in another, and it's not there.

This is true across all of them. Each database has different data sources, different update schedules, and different inclusion criteria. A foundation that appears in Instrumentl might not show up in Candid, and vice versa.

My recommendation? Don't marry yourself to one database forever. Consider rotating your subscription every year or two to discover fresh prospects. The funders you find in your second year with a new database might be completely different from what you found before—and that means less competition and new opportunities for your organization.

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A Note on Affiliate Links

Did you know? Spark the Fire offers scholarships for our grant writing courses, funded by affiliate commissions from Instrumentl and GrantStation. This scholarship fund supports Native American grant professionals, in honor of my great-grandfather, who was Native American.

When you use our affiliate links, you're not just getting a great deal—you're helping make grant writing education accessible to those who might not otherwise afford it.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a grant prospect research database?

A grant prospect research database (sometimes called a grants database or funder database) is a specialized tool that compiles information on foundations, corporations, and government agencies that provide grant funding. These databases include grantmaker profiles, giving histories, application guidelines, and contact information that you cannot easily find through internet searches. Remember: 90% of foundations don't have websites, so these databases are essential for comprehensive prospect research.

Which database is best for small nonprofits?

For small nonprofits on tight budgets, I recommend starting with GrantStation at $140/year with our discount code. If your organization has under $1 million in revenue, you can also get Candid Premium for free by earning a Gold Seal of Transparency—that's an incredible deal for the industry-standard research tool.

Which database has the most funders?

Instrumentl leads with 410,000 funder profiles, followed by Candid (304,000), Grant Frog (190,000), and GrantStation (150,000). However, more isn't always better—the types of funders matter too. GrantStation has the broadest variety of funder types, while Grant Frog focuses exclusively on foundations.

Can I use more than one database?

Absolutely, and many larger organizations do. Each database has different strengths and different funder coverage. However, for most small to mid-sized organizations, one database at a time is sufficient—just consider rotating which one you use every year or two to find fresh prospects.

Where can I find clubs and associations like Rotary or Lions Club?

GrantStation is the only database with a dedicated filter for clubs and associations. They also include giving circles, which are nearly impossible to find elsewhere. Check your local newspaper or the yellow pages for clubs and association meetings near you.

Where can I research donor-advised funds (DAFs)?

Instrumentl includes donor-advised funds in their database—a unique feature since DAFs don't file their own 990s and are notoriously difficult to research.

Do any databases offer free trials?

Instrumentl offers a three-week free trial for Spark the Fire readers (use our link). Grant Frog offers a 14-day free trial with no credit card required. Candid and GrantStation do not currently offer free trials.

What's new in grant databases for 2026?

The biggest developments are the Candid merger going live and AI-powered features across platforms. Candid Search launched January 15, 2026, finally combining GuideStar and Foundation Directory data—and dropped prices from $299 to $100/month. Instrumentl's AI now explains why funders match your organization, not just that they exist. The field is evolving rapidly.

What about AI writing tools for grant proposals?

Great question—that's a topic for another article! AI writing assistants are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and several of these databases are adding AI writing features. Stay tuned for our upcoming comparison of AI grant writing tools.

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Conclusion

There's no single "best" grant prospect research database—it depends on your organization's needs, budget, and workflow. But you can't go wrong with any of these four options in 2026:

Instrumentl for the most comprehensive database, automated ongoing research, and best-in-class pipeline management—plus unique access to donor-advised funds

Candid for industry-standard research depth, unmatched geographic mapping, and free access for qualifying small nonprofits through the Gold Seal program

GrantStation for budget-friendly simplicity and the widest variety of funder types—including the only dedicated filters for clubs, associations, and giving circles

Grant Frog for teams who need prospecting and grants management in one platform, built by a grant writer who understands your workflow

The field is evolving fast. Whichever you choose, remember that these tools are designed to save you time and surface opportunities you'd never find on your own. That 90% of foundations without websites? Now you know how to find them.

What databases do you use? I'd love to hear from you in the comments.

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Discover Tribal Giving: Is Your State on the Map?

Tribal giving is as unique and varied as the tribes themselves. Each tribal nation operates as a sovereign entity, meaning they have distinct priorities, traditions, and methods of philanthropy. In some states, tribes generously support local charities, while others focus exclusively on education, health initiatives, or cultural preservation. Some tribes provide limited or no external funding, emphasizing their internal community needs.

For nonprofits, educational institutions, or local charities seeking funding, having a clear understanding of tribal giving practices in your state is critical to building the right connections and crafting thoughtful proposals.

Introducing the State-by-State Guide to Tribal Giving

To help you navigate this complex landscape, we’ve created an e-book: a state-by-state guide to tribal giving. This comprehensive resource provides valuable insights into the giving practices of tribes across the U.S., including:

• Specific funding priorities for tribes in each state.

• Guidance on which tribes accept external grant applications.

• Tips to build culturally sensitive, respectful, and impactful relationships.

Whether you're just beginning your journey into tribal philanthropy or looking to strengthen existing partnerships, this guide can help you identify opportunities and approach tribal giving with the respect and understanding it deserves.

Why Understanding Tribal Giving Matters

Tribal philanthropy is an underutilized and powerful resource for organizations. By aligning your mission with tribal priorities, you can create partnerships that not only secure funding but also contribute to meaningful community impact. However, approaching tribal funding requires careful preparation, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to transparency and collaboration.

Get the Guide

Ready to explore tribal giving opportunities in your state? Download our exclusive e-book, “State-by-State Guide to Tribal Giving,” and take the next step in building impactful partnerships.

Should You Apply for Tribal Funding?

A question that often arises when discussing tribal philanthropy is whether organizations should be seeking funds from tribes, given the high levels of poverty and underfunded infrastructure within many Native American communities. It’s a valid concern and one that should be approached with respect and awareness of tribal sovereignty.

While many tribal nations face economic challenges, it’s important to remember that tribes are independent entities with their own economic systems and philanthropic priorities. Some tribes operate successful businesses and casinos, creating a surplus that allows them to engage in charitable giving. These tribes may choose to give back not only to their own communities but also to non-tribal organizations that align with their values.

However, not all tribes have the same capacity for giving, and some focus their efforts exclusively on supporting their own members. The key is to do thorough research on the tribes you're considering approaching for funding. Understanding their priorities and ensuring that your organization’s mission aligns with their values is critical to building a respectful and mutually beneficial relationship.

Tips for Applying to Tribal Funding

When applying for tribal funding, it's important to approach each grant application with attention to detail and respect for tribal culture. Here are some key tips to guide you through the process:

1. Grant Applications Vary Significantly
   Tribal grant applications can be quite different from one another. Some may ask for handwritten submissions, while others might require you to print sticker labels to place on corresponding attachments. Some applications are short and straightforward, while others request extensive details. The key is to carefully read and follow all instructions and guidelines to ensure your submission meets the requirements.

2. Emphasize Service to Native American Communities
   If your organization serves Native American populations, make sure to highlight this in your proposal. Quantify the impact your work has on these communities, and explain how the funding will further support Native American individuals or groups. This can strengthen your case, especially if your goals align with the tribe’s priorities.

3. Detail Existing Partnerships with Tribes
   If your organization is already collaborating with tribes or tribal entities, be sure to highlight these relationships in your grant application. Detailing successful partnerships and the positive outcomes of working with Native American communities shows that your organization is committed to fostering long-term, respectful connections.

4. Build Relationships First
   Just as with any funder, building a relationship with tribal nations before applying is crucial. Engage with the tribe, understand their values, and establish trust. Attend events, participate in community discussions, and show genuine interest in their mission. Building long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships often paves the way for successful funding opportunities.

5. Craft a Culturally Sensitive Proposal
   Your proposal should reflect respect and understanding of the tribe's culture. Use language that is thoughtful and free from stereotypes, and avoid one-size-fits-all templates. Tailor your proposal to align with the tribe’s values and ensure that it is sensitive to their cultural traditions.

6. Do Your Homework
   Research the tribe's giving priorities, funding history, and current focus areas. Each tribal nation has its own approach to philanthropy, so it’s important to understand what they value most in potential partnerships. Make sure your proposal reflects a deep understanding of their community and goals.

7. Focus on Community Impact
   Tribes often prioritize projects that benefit their community members directly. In your proposal, clearly outline how your project will positively impact the tribe or Native American populations in general. Emphasize mutual benefits and long-term partnerships that foster growth and collaboration.

8. Be Transparent and Accountable
   Clearly define your project’s objectives, how the funding will be used, and how success will be measured. Tribes value transparency and accountability, so regular updates and detailed reporting on the outcomes of the project can build trust for future opportunities.

9. Seek Feedback
   If your proposal is not accepted, ask for feedback. Tribes appreciate applicants who are open to learning and improving. Incorporating their feedback can strengthen your chances in future applications and demonstrate your respect for the process.

Closing Thoughts

Tribal giving represents a powerful and often underutilized resource for organizations across the country. By understanding the unique landscape in your state, you can open doors to partnerships that not only benefit your organization but also strengthen tribal communities.

What are your experiences with tribal philanthropy? Have you navigated these waters before, or are you just starting your journey? We’d love to hear your thoughts and stories in the comments below!

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Want to learn more about grants research? We are hosting a week-long webinar series in January. Check it out!

And if you're looking for more support, Spark the Fire offers an array of resources to help you succeed. Whether you're interested in our Certificate in Grant Writing Course, need expert Consultation, or want to sharpen your skills with our Freelancer Template or Nonprofit Template Guide, we’re here to assist you every step of the way. Be sure to check out our job board and e-books like Action Verbs and All the Grant Questions to continue your growth in grant writing.

We’d love to hear from you! Have you had experience navigating tribal philanthropy or building partnerships with tribal nations? What insights or challenges have you encountered? Share your thoughts, questions, or success stories by typing into the comment box below!

Your perspective could inspire and guide others on their journey to understanding tribal giving. Let’s start a conversation and learn from each other’s experiences!