Grants can be used for just about any type of research project. However, if you are trying to find funding for a communications research project then you will need to make sure you target companies, government agencies and non-profit organizations that are either rooted in the field of communications or that have some other association or use for communications.
Instructions
Find Grants in Communication
1. Search the Federal database for grants in communication. This database is found online and is free to use. All you have to do is enter keywords related to your project or funding needs and the search engine will produce a list of related grants. Next, read through the list to find an open grant program that you qualify for. Keep in mind some grants are designed only for organizations, some are designed only for individuals and others are open to both groups.
2. Contact organizations that are either in the communications industry or that are interested in funding communications projects. University communication departments and libraries are both good sources of grants for communications projects. For example, the Michigan State University Libraries offer several grant programs for students, professionals and academics interested in public communication projects. The best place to find grant opportunities offered by universities is their research department. Keep in mind that fellowship grants tend to give a high priority to school alumni, but research grants are competitive and open to all researchers whose projects meet the guidelines of the grant.
3. Write to private organizations and ask if they are interested in providing you with a grant for your communications project. If you take this route then you will need to have a grant proposal already drafted and you will also need to provide the company with a reason why investing in your project will be beneficial to them. For example, your project may be developing communication technology that would reduce the company's internal or external communications costs. Good companies to target are companies that are in the communications industry like AT&T, Verizon and Direct TV.
4. Know what to do if your grant application is rejected. If your grant application is rejected for a competitive grant program then you will not have the opportunity to revise it and resubmit for the original grant period. However, you do have the option of resubmitting your application for the next funding period. On the other hand, if you are applying for a need-based grant or a private grant, then the organization may allow you to revise and resubmit your application for immediate consideration for funding. You will need to talk with the grant administrator to determine what your options are after your grant application has been rejected.
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