A clear process from idea to submission.

You always know what happens next, what we need from you, and who is responsible for each step.

Seven steps

From first conversation to submitted application.

The same disciplined process applies to federal, state, and foundation applications. Steps are scaled to the size of the opportunity.

  1. Tell us what you’re trying to fundYou

    Share the project, your organization, and your timeline through the Get Started form or a call.

  2. We assess the project and funding needsNorthlight

    We review scope, budget, eligibility factors, and readiness.

  3. We identify relevant opportunitiesNorthlight

    We find programs that fit — or review the one you’ve already found.

  4. We develop the application strategyTogether

    We map the scoring criteria, required documents, owners, and dates.

  5. We prepare the applicationNorthlight

    Narrative, budget, budget narrative, forms, and attachments.

  6. You reviewYou

    You review drafts, correct details, and approve final language.

  7. Finalized and submittedTogether

    We finalize the package and coordinate submission before the deadline.

Timing

How quickly can we get started?

We respond to new requests within one business day. When the opportunity is identified and your information is ready, we can move quickly.

We don’t publish guaranteed turnaround times, because every application is different. Before you commit, we’ll tell you honestly whether a deadline is realistic and what it would take to meet it.

What sets the timeline

  • The grant deadline
  • How complex the application is
  • Required documentation and registrations
  • How quickly we receive information and approvals from you
  • The funding agency’s requirements

We don’t quote guaranteed turnaround times. We’ll tell you honestly whether a deadline is realistic before you commit.

01 · Find

Find it.

Identify funding opportunities that fit the organization and the project.

  • Opportunity research across federal, state, and foundation sources
  • Eligibility and fit assessment
  • Deadlines and requirements mapped

Funding Match Report · LOI · Small Business Package

02 · Win

Win it.

Develop strong, competitive applications and manage the application process.

  • Application strategy against the scoring criteria
  • Narrative, budget, and attachments
  • Review, finalization, and submission coordination

Federal · State · Foundation

03 · Run

Run it.

Help manage awarded grants: reporting, deadlines, compliance, and administration.

  • Reporting calendars and deadline tracking
  • Compliance, documentation, and budget monitoring
  • Funder communication and closeout

Grant Management

After you apply

What happens after submission.

After submission

The funder reviews applications on its own schedule. We help you respond to any questions or requests for clarification.

If you’re awarded

Grant Management can take over reporting, deadlines, compliance tracking, and documentation for the life of the award.

If you’re not

Many funders share reviewer feedback. We help you understand it and decide whether to revise and reapply or pursue another opportunity.

Northlight prepares and supports funding applications, but funding decisions are made by the awarding organization. No grant award or funding amount is guaranteed.

Ready to find your funding?

Tell us what you’re trying to fund. We’ll review it and get back to you within one business day.

Prefer to talk? Call (907) 310-7794 or email [email protected].