10 Best Grant Management Software

Grant management software in the US helps organizations manage their funding processes more easily. This software includes features like grant tracking, compliance management, and automated reporting. Nonprofits, schools, and government agencies use these tools to handle grant applications, track fund distribution, and follow federal and state rules.

Are you looking for the best grant management software in the US? Whether you’re a nonprofit, educational institution, or government agency, finding the right software can make a huge difference in how efficiently you manage your grants. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best grant management software options available in 2024, each chosen for their robust features, user-friendly interfaces, and excellent customer support.

List of the top 10 best grant management software are as follows –

Bloomerang is a comprehensive donor management software primarily designed for small to medium-sized nonprofits. It focuses on enhancing donor engagement and improving fundraising efforts through intuitive and easy-to-use features.

Features:

• Donor Management: Allows organizations to keep detailed records of donor interactions, donations, and other important data.
• Engagement Meter: A tool that tracks donor engagement levels to help nonprofits identify potential high-impact donors and foster stronger relationships.
• Email Marketing: Integrated email tools enable organizations to create, send, and track the effectiveness of their email campaigns directly within the platform.
• Event Management: Features tools for managing event registrations, ticket sales, and attendee tracking.

Pricing:

Bloomerang’s pricing is tiered based on the number of records (donors, prospects, and other contacts) a nonprofit manages:

• Tier 1: Up to 1,000 records – pricing starts at $99/month.
• Tier 2: Up to 5,000 records – pricing increases and is typically custom quoted.
• Tier 3 and beyond: More than 5,000 records – also custom quoted.

Nonprofits are advised to contact Bloomerang directly for a precise quote, as pricing can vary based on specific needs and any additional features required.

Pros:

• User-Friendly Interface: Known for its ease of use, which allows new users to quickly adapt and effectively manage donor data.
• Integrated Features: The integration of fundraising, marketing, and reporting tools in one platform streamlines operations and reduces the need for multiple software solutions.

Cons:

• Pricing for Larger Organizations: As the database size grows, the platform can become quite expensive, which might not be suitable for larger nonprofits or those with a limited budget.
• Limited Customization: Some users have reported that while the software is very user-friendly, there are limitations in customizing features to fit specific needs.

Submittable is a submission management software designed to streamline the process of accepting and reviewing any type of content submission or application. It’s widely used by organizations ranging from magazines and book publishers to grantmakers and academic institutions.

Features:

• Application Management: Submittable makes it easy to create custom forms, manage submissions, and organize the review process.
• Customizable Forms: Users can create forms with the fields they need, including file uploads, text entries, and checkboxes.
• Automation: Submittable can automate repetitive tasks, such as sending acknowledgment emails and moving submissions through various stages of the review process.
• Reporting and Analytics: Users can generate reports to gain insights into submission trends, reviewer performance, and more.

Pricing:

Submittable offers several pricing tiers to accommodate different needs and budgets. The plans are typically customized based on the volume of submissions and the feature set required by the organization. Basic pricing starts at around $99 per month, but for more comprehensive needs, including advanced reporting and integrations, prices can be significantly higher.

Pros:

• User-Friendly Interface: Submittable is praised for its clean, intuitive interface that makes navigation and management straightforward for both administrators and users.
• Efficient Workflow Management: The platform significantly simplifies the process of managing submissions, from receipt through to final decision.

Cons:

• Cost: For smaller organizations or those with limited budgets, Submittable can be a bit expensive, especially when premium features are needed.
• Limited Customization in Lower Tiers: Some users report that the level of customization for forms and processes can be somewhat restricted unless you’re on a higher-tier plan.

Instrumentl is a grant management software designed to streamline the grant-seeking process for nonprofits, educational institutions, and research organizations. It combines grant discovery, tracking, and management tools in one platform, aiming to save time and increase the effectiveness of fundraising efforts through grants.

Features:

• Grant Discovery: Instrumentl provides access to a vast database of grant opportunities, allowing users to find relevant grants by using filters such as focus area, applicant type, and geographic location.
• Project Matching: The software automatically matches projects with the most relevant grant opportunities, reducing the time spent searching for suitable grants.
• Deadline Tracking: Users can track application deadlines and other important dates, ensuring they never miss a submission deadline.
• Performance Metrics: Instrumentl offers tools to track the success rate of grant applications and the performance of ongoing grants, helping organizations to measure and improve their grant-seeking strategies.

Pricing:

Instrumentl offers a monthly subscription model, with plans starting at approximately $195 per month. The pricing can vary based on additional features or custom needs. They often provide a trial period or demo to experience the software before committing to a subscription.

Pros:

• Highly Efficient Search Capabilities: Instrumentl’s powerful search engine and matching algorithms significantly reduce the time and effort required to find grants that are the best fit for an organization’s needs.
• Comprehensive Tracking: The platform’s comprehensive tracking system helps organizations stay on top of every grant opportunity and application, ensuring timely submissions and better management of grant calendars.

Cons:

• Cost Prohibitive for Smaller Organizations: The starting price of $195 per month can be a barrier for small nonprofits or startups with limited budgets, making it less accessible to smaller entities.
• Complexity in Features: Some users find the platform to have a steep learning curve due to its comprehensive and detailed features. New users may require significant time to fully utilize all the tools available effectively.

Blackbaud Grantmaking Software is designed to streamline grantmaking processes for foundations, philanthropic organizations, and corporations. It’s a comprehensive solution that combines robust functionality with user-friendly features to optimize grant management from application to award and reporting.

Features:

• Comprehensive Analytics: Blackbaud Grantmaking provides powerful analytics tools that allow organizations to generate detailed reports and insights into their grantmaking activities.
• Integration Capabilities: The software seamlessly integrates with other Blackbaud products and can connect with various other software systems.
• Customizable Workflows: Users can customize workflows to suit their specific processes. This flexibility allows organizations to design application forms, review processes, and reporting templates that align with their operational standards and goals.
• Grant Lifecycle Management: Includes handling applications, reviewing, awarding, and monitoring the outcomes and reports submitted by grantees.

Pricing:

Blackbaud Grantmaking does not publicly list specific pricing details, as it often customizes its offerings based on the size and needs of the organization but on average , it’s prcing per month is $325. Potential customers need to contact Blackbaud directly to obtain a quote tailored to their specific requirements.

Pros:

• Scalability: Blackbaud Grantmaking is highly scalable, making it suitable for both small foundations and large philanthropic institutions. It supports a wide range of grantmaking activities and can grow with an organization’s needs.
• Robust Reporting and Compliance Tools: The software offers extensive tools for reporting and ensuring compliance. These features are crucial for organizations that need to adhere to specific regulatory requirements and want to maintain transparency and accountability in their grantmaking.

Cons:

• Complexity and Learning Curve: Due to its extensive features and capabilities, Blackbaud Grantmaking can be complex to use. New users may find the software overwhelming and might require significant training to utilize it effectively.
• Cost: While exact pricing details are not publicly available, Blackbaud products are generally known to be on the pricier side, particularly for smaller organizations or those with limited budgets. This can be a barrier for non-profits with constrained financial resources.

Grant Lifecycle Manager (GLM) is a comprehensive grant management system designed to streamline the grant management process from application to award and reporting. It’s particularly favored by foundations, government entities, and nonprofits looking for a robust solution to manage their entire grant lifecycle.

Features:

• Full Lifecycle Management: GLM provides tools that manage every stage of the grant process, from initial solicitation and application through review, awarding, and final reporting.
• Automated Workflows: The software automates many of the repetitive tasks associated with grant management, such as reminders, status updates, and report submissions, which helps in saving time and reducing errors.
• Customizable Forms and Fields: Users can customize application forms and reporting templates to fit their specific requirements, ensuring that they capture all necessary information from applicants.
• Robust Reporting and Analytics: GLM includes powerful reporting tools that allow organizations to analyze grant activity, track funding impact, and generate insights that can guide future grantmaking decisions.

Pricing:

GLM offers custom pricing plans based on the specific needs and scale of the organization. Potential users need to contact them directly to get a quote that fits their requirements.

Pros:

• Efficiency in Grant Management: By automating various stages of the grant process, GLM significantly reduces the administrative burden, enabling grant managers to focus on strategic decision-making.
• Flexibility: The customization options in terms of forms, fields, and workflows allow organizations to tailor the software to their unique processes, making it a versatile tool for different types of grant-giving bodies.

Cons:

• Learning Curve: Due to its extensive features and customization options, new users may find GLM somewhat complex to navigate initially.
• Cost: As with many comprehensive solutions, the cost of GLM can be a barrier for smaller organizations or those with limited budgets, especially since the pricing is customized and potentially higher than some more basic packages.

Submit.com is a versatile software platform designed to streamline the management of applications and submissions across various contexts, including grant management, awards, scholarships, and more. Here’s a detailed look at its features, pricing, pros, and cons:

Features:

• Application Management: Submit.com allows organizations to customize application forms, automate the collection of submissions, and manage them through a centralized system. This helps in organizing and tracking applications efficiently.
• Review Tools: The platform includes tools for setting up review workflows, enabling multiple reviewers to evaluate submissions based on predefined criteria. This facilitates fair and systematic assessment processes.
• Workflow Automation: Submit.com automates many steps in the application process, from initial receipt to final decision, reducing manual tasks and speeding up operations.
• Reporting and Analytics: The software provides comprehensive reporting tools that help in analyzing the data from submissions to improve decision-making and monitor trends and outcomes.

Pricing:

Submit.com pricing starts at approximately $95 per month. The platform typically offers various plans which may scale with the number of users and the specific functionalities required, thus providing a tailored approach that fits different organizational needs and sizes.

Pros:

• User-friendly Interface: Users often praise Submit.com for its clean, intuitive interface that makes navigation and operation straightforward, even for those with limited technical skills.
• Flexibility: The platform is highly customizable, allowing organizations to tailor forms, workflows, and review processes to meet their specific needs, making it versatile across different types of applications.

Cons:

• Cost Factor: For smaller organizations or those with limited budgets, the starting price of $95 per month might be a bit steep compared to other solutions that offer basic features at a lower cost.
• Complexity in Setup: While the customization is a significant advantage, setting up the initial workflows and templates can be complex and might require more time and effort, especially for users who are new to such platforms.

Salesforce Nonprofit Cloud is a comprehensive suite of solutions specifically designed to meet the unique needs of nonprofit organizations. Built on the Salesforce platform, it offers powerful tools to manage relationships, fundraising, programs, and operations. Here’s a detailed look at Salesforce Nonprofit Cloud, including its features, pricing, pros, and cons.

Features:

• Constituent Relationship Management (CRM): Centralizes all constituent interactions and data into one integrated platform, enabling better tracking of relationships, donations, memberships, and other engagements.
• Fundraising and Donation Management: Streamlines fundraising activities with tools that manage donation records, campaign performance, and automate gift entries.
• Program Management: Allows organizations to track and manage their programs effectively, from planning through execution, including measuring outcomes and impact.
• Reporting and Analytics: Provides powerful analytics and reporting capabilities that help nonprofits make data-driven decisions. Customizable dashboards offer insights into various aspects like campaign success, donor trends, and financial health.

Pricing:

Salesforce Nonprofit Cloud’s pricing is customized based on the specific needs and size of each nonprofit organization. Salesforce offers a base package with 10 free subscriptions to eligible nonprofits, but additional costs can accrue depending on the number of users and the level of customization required. For a precise quote, organizations should contact Salesforce directly as pricing can vary significantly.

Pros:

• Integration Capabilities: Seamlessly integrates with a wide range of other Salesforce apps and third-party systems, enhancing functionality and ensuring a comprehensive management tool.
• Scalability: As needs grow, Salesforce Nonprofit Cloud can scale to accommodate increased demands without sacrificing performance, making it ideal for nonprofits of all sizes.

Cons:

• Complexity: Due to its extensive features and capabilities, there can be a significant learning curve. Smaller nonprofits without dedicated IT staff may find it challenging to utilize all its functionalities effectively.
• Cost: Customization, additional subscriptions, and advanced features can lead to higher expenses, which might be prohibitive for some nonprofits.

Serenic Navigator is a comprehensive cloud-based financial management system designed primarily for nonprofits, NGOs, and public sector organizations. It is built on the robust Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central platform, offering a suite of powerful tools tailored to help organizations manage their complex financial needs more efficiently.

Features:

• Advanced Financial Management: Provides extensive capabilities for financial reporting, budgeting, and accounting to ensure compliance and detailed financial oversight.
• Award and Grant Management: Enables organizations to manage grants and awards effectively from initial receipt to final reporting, ensuring compliance with funding regulations.
• Multi-Currency and Multilingual Support: Facilitates global operations by supporting multiple currencies and languages, making it ideal for international organizations.
• Project Accounting: Integrates project accounting capabilities that allow for precise tracking of project costs and budget management to ensure projects are completed within financial constraints.

Pricing:

Serenic Navigator offers custom pricing, which varies depending on the specific needs and size of the organization. Interested organizations should contact Serenic directly for a quote and possible demonstration.

Pros:

• Integration with Microsoft Products: As it’s built on the Microsoft Dynamics platform, it integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft products like Office 365, enhancing productivity and ease of use.
• Comprehensive Reporting: Offers robust reporting tools that provide detailed insights into financial data, helping organizations make informed decisions.

Cons:

• Complexity: The extensive features and capabilities might be overwhelming for smaller organizations or those without a dedicated IT department.
• Cost: Being a comprehensive and highly specialized tool, it might be more expensive than other solutions, particularly for smaller nonprofits or those with limited budgets.

Good Grants is a grant management software designed to streamline the application and review process for organizations of various sizes.

Features:

• Online Application Portal: Provides a user-friendly interface where applicants can easily submit and manage their applications.
• Judging and Scoring System: Facilitates a streamlined review process by allowing reviewers to score applications based on predefined criteria.
• Automation Tools: Automates routine tasks such as sending acknowledgment emails, reminders, and other communications to applicants and reviewers.
• Real-Time Reporting and Analytics: Offers comprehensive reporting tools that provide insights into the grant process, tracking metrics such as application status, reviewer performance, and funding allocation.

Pricing:

Good Grants offers tiered pricing based on the features and scale of use. Prices start at $79 per month for the basic plan, which is designed for smaller organizations and simple grant programs. For more extensive features and higher capacities, premium plans are available, which typically require a custom quote from the provider.

Pros:

• User-Friendly Interface: Both applicants and administrators find the software easy to navigate, which enhances user engagement and satisfaction.
• Efficient Management Tools: The automation and real-time analytics significantly reduce administrative burden and improve the efficiency of the grant management process.

Cons:

• Limited Customization on Lower Tiers: While Good Grants offers robust features, some users find that the lower-cost plans lack sufficient customization options for more complex grant programs.
• Performance Issues with Large Data Sets: Some users report slowdowns when working with large sets of data or when multiple users are accessing the system simultaneously, especially on the basic plans.

SurveyMonkey Apply is a comprehensive application management system designed to streamline the process of collecting, reviewing, and managing applications. It is commonly used by academic institutions, nonprofits, and businesses to handle grants, scholarships, and other types of applications.

Features:

• Customizable Application Processes: Users can create and customize application forms and processes to fit specific requirements, including adding multiple stages and deadlines.
• Advanced Reviewer Portal: The platform includes a secure and intuitive portal for reviewers, allowing for efficient evaluation and scoring of applications based on predefined criteria.
• Automated Workflows: Automates repetitive tasks such as sending follow-up emails and updating application statuses, which helps in saving time and reducing manual errors.
• Robust Reporting and Analytics: Provides powerful tools for analyzing application data, generating reports, and gaining insights into the effectiveness of programs and applicant trends.

Pricing:

SurveyMonkey Apply offers various pricing tiers, starting at approximately $350 per month. The cost can increase based on the number of programs managed, the level of customization required, and additional features. It’s advisable to contact SurveyMonkey directly for a detailed quote tailored to your organization’s specific needs.

Pros:

• User-Friendly Interface: SurveyMonkey Apply is known for its clean, intuitive interface that makes it easy for both applicants and administrators to navigate.
• Highly Customizable: The platform offers significant customization options that allow organizations to tailor the application and review processes to their specific needs.

Cons:

• Cost: The starting price point may be prohibitive for smaller organizations or those with limited budgets, especially as more advanced features and higher usage levels necessitate higher subscription tiers.
• Learning Curve: Despite its user-friendly design, the high degree of customization and feature richness can lead to a steep learning curve for new users, requiring dedicated time for training and adaptation.

In conclusion, finding the right grant management software is crucial for any organization looking to streamline its grant processes. With options like Bloomerang, Submittable, Instrumentl, and others on our top 10 list, you’re sure to find a solution that fits your needs. These platforms offer a range of features from customizable application processes to robust reporting tools, making grant administration more efficient and effective. Whether you’re a nonprofit, an educational institution, or a government entity, investing in the right software will help you manage grants more effectively, ensure compliance, and maximize funding opportunities.

What is a grant management software?

Grant management software is an organizational tool that helps your organization manage all things grants related.

What is the best site for grants?

Federal funding opportunities published on Grants.gov are for organizations and entities supporting the development and management of government-funded programs and projects. For more information about personal financial assistance benefits, please visit Benefits.gov.

What is SAP grant management?

SAP Grants Management provides you with a solution for sponsored programs through its functionality and its architecture. Architecturally, SAP Grants Management maintains a separate view of your organization’s sponsored program activities and projects.

What is Salesforce grants management?

Salesforce Grants Management is purpose-built for grantmakers to streamline their processes and get critical funding out to their communities quickly. Get in touch with an expert to unlock the power of grants management software.