How to Find Grants for Scouts Nonprofits: A Practical Guide

Quick Stats

According to the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America, over 1.2 million youth participated in Scout programs last year, showing high engagement and community involvement.

Research indicates that only 30% of nonprofits focused on youth programs secure grant funding.

Scouts nonprofits receive an average of $12,000 in grants annually, but those that actively pursue funding can increase their grant income by up to 50%.

The majority (65%) of grants awarded for youth development programs prioritize community engagement and service projects.

Grant Types

• Program Grants: Funding specific Scout programs or initiatives, such as community service projects or educational events.
• Operational Grants: Funds to support the overall costs of running your Scout troop or council, including space rentals and materials.
• Equipment Grants: Funding for outdoor gear, camping equipment, or safety gear necessary for conducting Scout activities.
• Capacity Building Grants: Support for training adult leaders or developing resources for your Scout organization to grow and strengthen.

Finding Grants

1. Identify Your Needs: Begin by assessing what funding you need for specific programs, equipment, or operations.
2. Utilize the Right Tools: Start with Zeffy's AI Grant Research Tool. It offers:
• Free access with no subscription fees, making it budget-friendly for all nonprofits.
• Unlimited searches tailored to your Scout organization's needs.
• AI-powered matching to relevant grants based on your inputs, ensuring you find the best fits.
3. Explore Complementary Sources: Besides Zeffy, check out the following:
• Foundations and Family Trusts: Many local foundations support youth programs.
• Community Foundations: Often prioritize grants for local organizations.
• State and Federal Grant Opportunities: Websites like Grants.gov list nationwide funding for youth organizations.

Expert Tips

1. Network Locally: Attend community events and engage with potential local funders who support youth initiatives.
2. Build Relationships: Nurture connections with grant managers to increase your chances of future funding.
3. Tailor Your Applications: Customize each grant application to align with the funder's specific interests and objectives.
4. Showcase Impact: Use data and testimonials to demonstrate how your Scout activities benefit the community.
5. Utilize Social Media: Share success stories from your troop, showcasing your initiatives and drawing interest from potential funders.
6. Leverage Alumni: Engage former Scouts who may be willing to support your troop financially or through connections.
7. Stay Organized: Use a grant calendar to track deadlines, submission dates, and follow-up reminders.

Next Steps

Take immediate action by exploring Zeffy's AI Grant Research Tool today and see how easily you can find relevant grants for your Scouts nonprofit.

For additional resources, check out the Scouts Nonprofit Grant Toolkit, available on our website, and join networking groups such as the Scouts National Foundation to connect with fellow nonprofit professionals.