Even if you have not found the right Federal grant to pursue, don't wait until the last minute to register with Grants.gov - get these steps done and out of the way so you will be prepared to focus on crafting the best proposal when the time comes.
Here are the five steps needed to be ready for grant proposal submissions through grants.gov:
1. Obtain a Data Universal Number System (DUNS) identification
Go to the Dunn & Bradstreet website (http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform/displayHomePage.do) to register for an identification number for your organization. You should receive a DUNS number within one business day.
2. Register with the Central Contractor Registry (CCR)
Go to http://www.ccr.gov to register with the CCR. You will need your DUNS, Tax Identification Number (TIN), the number of employees in the organization, and Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) information for payment of invoices. You will designate an "E-Biz Point of Contact" (E-Biz POC) who will receive an "MPIN." Registration may take two to three business days.
3. Create profile(s) for your Authorized Organization Representative(s) (AOR)
Your organization must appoint one or more people to act as an AOR. It is best to select the highest level official in your organization, such as the president or executive director, because the AOR(s) will be responsible for signing legally binding contracts for your organization. AOR(s) must complete a profile at this website: https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/OrcRegister
4. The E-Biz POC must approve the AOR(s)
Upon completion of step three, the E-Biz POC will receive an email notification of the AOR's desire to represent the organization. The E-Biz POC will need to log in with the MPIN from step two and approve the AOR to submit grant proposals on behalf of the organization. To complete this step, go to the following website: https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/login.faces?userType=ebiz&cleanSession=1
5. Verify AOR status
AOR(s) should verify approval given by the E-Biz POC by logging in to the following website: https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/login.faces?userType=applicant&cleanSession=1
Following these steps will ensure that your organization is capable of submitting grant proposals through grants.gov.
For more information about how to prepare successful grant proposals, please explore the resources available on our website (www.grantproseinc.com) and be sure to read the following articles previously published through our newsletter:
5 Components of an Effective Letter of Inquiry
Department of Education Grant Funding in 2012
Where Grant Writing Fits in Your Fundraising Strategy
You can also view all of our previous newsletters in the GrantProse email archive.
