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Grant Program

The Inform USA Grant Program is designed to support organizations and professionals within the Information and Referral sector by offering grants to further their growth, education, and innovative projects.

In 2025, the program will distribute up to $25,000 in grants across two categories: Scholarships and Unique Projects. 

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Program Scope for 2025
2025 Timeline

  • Scholarships: $5,000 total available. Individual awards cover conference ticket price or certification exam fee. 
  • Unique Projects: Up to $20,000 total available. Individual awards up to $5,000.
  • Applications Open: June 16, 2025

  • Application Deadline: August 31, 2025

  • Grant Announcement: September 30, 2025
Core Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for any grant:

  • Must be a member in good standing for at least one year with no outstanding balances.

  • Must have completed the Membership Profile. (Learn more)

Designed to support conference attendance or professional certification achievements.

Key Points:

  • Applicant Requirements:

    • Applications must come from an organization; however, Individual Members (dues-paying)  are eligible.

  • Funding Specifics:

    • Inform USA will cover the cost of a conference ticket or certification exam price only. Any travel and/or accommodation costs remain the responsibility of the agency/applicant.

  • Preference:

    • Preference will be given to first-time applicants.

Application Preview:

Targeted towards initiatives that advance the work of Inform USA and the I&R community by supporting:

  • Education Events, Networking Events, Regional I&R Conferences

  • Statewide Standards Development, Advocacy Days/Events

  • Marketing/Membership Recruitment initiatives

  • I&R-related technology advancements

Key Points:

  • Funding Range:

    • Minimum of $1,000 and a maximum of $5,000

  • Budget Guidelines:

    • Inform USA will cover no more than 50% of the total project budget.

    • Only 25% of the total project budget may come from in-kind support.

  • Submission Requirements:

    • Agency budget details and an I&R-specific budget.

    • A budget narrative demonstrating funding allocation and long-term sustainability.

  • Project Criteria:

    • Projects should be completed within 12 months from the funding date.

    • Applicants should aim to impact a significant number of Inform USA members.

    • Preference for new and impactful findings or the development of best practices in I&R.

  • Ineligible Uses of Funds:

    • Fixed costs related to renovations, deferred maintenance, or regular operating expenses (e.g., software, salaries, consultants, etc.).

    • Previously conducted programming, such as existing regional conferences or training events.

    • Fundraising events or sponsorship of other events. 

Application Preview

This grant program is an opportunity to drive innovation, support professional development, and foster impactful projects within the I&R sector. We look forward to receiving creative and transformative proposals from our community!

Apply Now

Please reach out to info@informusa.org with any questions about the Grant Program.