SPIN Database
Research, Econonomic Development, and Innovation at James Madison University has purchased a subscription to SPIN by InfoEd Global. This subscription provides JMU faculty, staff, and students with access to a comprehensive repository to search current funding opportunities, as well as the ability to set up automatic email notifications.
If you are on campus, no account is needed to search. However, an account is necessary to save searches and filters, set up email notifications, and to search from off-campus locations. To set up an account, please click "Login" in the upper right corner, and then "Need to create a new profile". Accounts are verified by our local SPIN administrator.
SPIN Database: Tips & Tricks Video
Government Grants
The US Federal Government as well as the state of Virginia funds a variety of research in all branches of inquiry.
Grants.gov collects active funding opportunities from US grant-making agencies. The site has a robust search function, as well as numerous additional resources. This is the best resource for finding currently available government grants (including at the state and local levels).
Sam.gov is collects a variety of contracts available through US federal agencies. Note that contracts are generally more specific and focused than grants.
FederalRegister.gov includes federal solicitations, including requests for information (RFI). These can allow you shape the direction of future federal funding opportunities and federal investment in your field.
Consider subscribing to direct emails from your preferred sponsor agency or organization. This cost-free approach can provide valuable insights into their programs and evolving funding patterns over time. Federal grants are also indexed in Federal Grants Wire, which is free to use but not a government-run website. Similarly, government contracts are indexed at GovWin; however this resource is not free to use.
Other Resources
The above resources do not cover the entire grant landscape. The following resources allow for free searches:
- Grant Forward: Searches are free at Grant Forward, but a subscription is required to see detailed information about funding opportunities. Fortunately, many funders also have basic information about their grants on their websites.
- Candid RFP: Candid Philanthropy News Digest has a free database of Requests for Proposals, which are announcements organizations release when they announce a grant opportunity. The Request for Proposals will typically link to the organization's website with further details.
JMU does not subscribe to the following resources, but you may have access through departmental or professional organizations.
If you are not able to find relevant external funding opportunities, the Office of Research Development may be able to assist you. Please submit a consultation request (availability permitting).
Furthermore, if you are aware of other methods not mentioned here, please kindly forward them to researchdevelopment@jmu.edu.
