Grants.gov Issues

Grants.gov has issues affecting some applicants that may result in either the apply button being grey or a “bad request” error. Both of these issues are usually related to the user not being logged into Grants.gov, or the user account not having the right participant role assigned to them. Applicants can also try to access the application package from within Grants.gov, instead of using the link on the How to Apply page on our website.

Troubleshooting tips:

  • Make sure you have added an organization profile to your account using the UEI you received when registering with SAM.gov
  • Confirm you have a participant role of either Workspace Manager or Authorized Organization Representative (AOR). If you do not have the correct roles:
    • Ask the EBiz POC of your organization (designated when registering with SAM.gov) to assign you the necessary roles.
    • If you believe you are the EBiz POC but still receive the “Bad Request” error or are unable to assign roles to other individuals, confirm that your email address for your Grants.gov account matches the email address for the EBiz POC identified in SAM.gov

To access the application package from within Grants.gov:

  • Login to Grants.gov.
    • Confirm that you have the correct participant role and organization profile as described above.
  • In the left navigation bar, select “Apply Now”
  • Enter Funding Opportunity Number (you do not need the Opportunity Package ID if you use the opportunity number):
    • For July GAP Applications: 2024NEA01GAP2
    • For Research Grants in the Arts Applications: 2024NEA01ORAGRANTS
    • For Challenge America Applications: 2024NEA01CA
  • Select Profile
  • Use your Organization Name for the “Application Filing Name”
  • Click on “Create Workspace”
  • You will be directed to the Manage Workspace page, where you can begin working on the application. 
  • See the Application Instructions PDF on the How to Apply page for your opportunity for details on how to complete and submit the form.

If you are still running into issues, please contact Grants.gov for assistance:

  • Call: 800-518-4726
  • Email: support@grants.gov
  • Consult the information posted on the Grants.gov website at Support or Help.
  • The Grants.gov Contact Center is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.