Candid RFPs
Candid's RFP database aggregating open funding calls from foundations and philanthropic funders for nonprofits and social sector organisations globally.
Overview
Candid (formerly the Foundation Center and GuideStar) hosts one of the most comprehensive databases of foundation RFPs - Requests for Proposals - for nonprofits, NGOs, and social sector organisations. Through its RFP database at candid.org, organisations can discover open funding calls from US and international foundations seeking project proposals on specific themes, geographies, or population groups. Candid is the world's leading source of information on social sector funding, and its RFP tool complements its broader Foundation Directory subscription service for prospect research.
What You Can Find Here
- Open RFPs from major US and international private foundations including Ford, Rockefeller, MacArthur, and Gates
- Corporate foundation funding calls from companies operating grant programmes
- Community foundation grant rounds targeting nonprofits in specific regions or cities
- Government-adjacent foundation calls co-funded with federal or state agencies
- Thematic RFPs covering health, education, environment, arts, racial equity, and international development
- Deadline-listed opportunities with direct links to funder application portals
Who Should Use This
- US and international nonprofits and NGOs seeking project or programme funding from philanthropic foundations
- Development directors and grant writers at social sector organisations conducting proactive prospect searches
- Community organisations looking for open RFPs in their local geography
- Academic and research institutions seeking foundation support for applied or community-based research
- Faith-based organisations and community groups seeking grants for social services or advocacy
How to Get Started
- Step 1: Visit candid.org/find-funding/rfps and browse currently open RFPs by category or deadline
- Step 2: Filter by subject area (e.g., health, education, environment), location, population served, or funder type
- Step 3: Read the full RFP description to understand the funder's priorities, eligibility, and expected outcomes
- Step 4: Follow the link to the funder's website to download the full RFP document and submission guidelines
- Step 5: For deeper prospect research, consider a Candid Foundation Directory subscription for full funder profiles and historical grants data
Things to Check Before Applying
- Some RFPs on Candid require your organisation to be invited or have an existing relationship with the funder
- Many larger foundations use LOI (Letter of Inquiry) rather than full proposals as the first step - check the submission process
- International organisations outside the US may face restrictions from US private foundations that require 501(c)(3) equivalency
- RFP listings may not always be updated in real time - always verify the deadline and status directly on the funder's website
- Some features of the Candid platform require a paid subscription (Foundation Directory) for full access
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Candid RFP database free to use?
The basic RFP listing is free. Full funder profiles, grants databases, and advanced search features require a Foundation Directory Online subscription, which is priced by organisation size.
Are Candid RFPs only for US nonprofits?
No. Many RFPs from international foundations and programs funding work outside the US are listed. However, many US private foundation RFPs restrict applicants to US-registered 501(c)(3) organisations.
How often are new RFPs added?
New RFPs are added continuously as foundations and funders post new calls. Checking weekly or setting up email alerts is recommended for active fundraisers.
What is the difference between a grant and an RFP?
An RFP (Request for Proposals) is a specific type of grant opportunity where the funder has defined the theme, geography, or type of work they want to fund and invites proposals fitting that description. It is more targeted than open grant programmes.
Can I submit a proposal directly through Candid?
No. Candid is a discovery and intelligence tool. Applications are submitted through each individual funder's own submission system or by email as directed in the RFP.
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