Help people find what they already qualify for.
Billions of dollars in grants and assistance programs go unclaimed every year — not because people don't qualify, but because finding them requires navigating systems most people never reach.
Our Mission
To make every US federal, state, and private grant accessible to every American citizen — regardless of education, income, or background. We believe the people who need help most should be the first to find it, not the last.
What Are Grants?
A grant is money given to you that you never have to pay back. Grants are funded by federal and state governments, private foundations, and corporations — and they exist for one reason: to help people who qualify.
They fund everything from college tuition and home repairs to food assistance, business startups, and disaster recovery. The US government alone distributes hundreds of billions in assistance annually — the vast majority going to individuals and families who meet specific eligibility criteria.
The problem isn't eligibility. The problem is awareness. Most people never apply because they didn't know the program existed, didn't think they'd qualify, or found the application process too confusing. GrantLantern solves all three.
What Are Government Assistance Programs?
Government assistance programs are benefit programs funded by taxpayers — including SNAP (food stamps), Medicaid, WIC, Section 8 housing, LIHEAP energy assistance, Head Start, and hundreds more.
Unlike grants, assistance programs provide ongoing support rather than one-time payments. They are needs-based and funded at the federal level, often administered by states. GrantLantern matches you to both grants and assistance programs — because when you need help, the label doesn't matter.
How GrantLantern Works
What we are — and what we're not
GrantLantern is an independent discovery tool. We are not affiliated with any government agency. We do not process applications, charge fees, or act as a middleman between you and any program.
When you find a program that fits, we send you directly to the official government or agency website to apply. The source is always visible on every result.
We do not guarantee eligibility. Eligibility decisions are made by the administering agency — not GrantLantern. Always confirm current requirements at the official source before applying.
Program information is sourced from official government and agency websites and reviewed regularly. Found outdated information? Email us.
Your privacy
We collect only what's needed to match you with programs: your state, household size, income range, and situation. We do not collect your name, Social Security number, or financial account details.
We don't sell your data. We don't share it with advertisers. Your profile is used only for matching.
No account needed · Takes 3 minutes · Never sold or shared