Funding Navigator offers step-by-step guidance to find and apply for critical funding
TULSA, Okla., Feb. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Fire departments and law enforcement agencies across the country now have a powerful ally in securing the funding needed to serve their communities. Funding Navigator — a new grant search and application assistance solution developed by GovFunds dba Navigator — provides departments with the tools they need to access funding for life-saving equipment, training, and other vital resources.
Overcoming funding challenges
Faced with increasing demands and operational costs, many departments rely on grant funding to obtain the necessary tools and equipment. However, identifying, writing, and submitting grant applications can be complex and time-consuming.
“First responders are busier than ever, and securing funding shouldn’t be an additional burden,” said Lauren Neustaedter, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer at Navigator. “Funding Navigator was created to remove barriers, making it easier for departments to secure the resources they need to protect their communities and themselves. Our nation’s first responders deserve the best as they risk their lives to protect us every day.”
Making grant applications manageable
Funding Navigator breaks down the grant application process into short, achievable steps that can be completed in 15 to 20 minutes a day, reducing application efforts by up to 80%.
“It is a white glove service in terms of the process of identifying grants and then walking through the process of applying for a grant,” said Kelsie Carnosso, chief administrative officer at Boise Fire, noting that it works equally well for seasoned grant writers and those new to the process. “Anybody at any level could go in and do it.”
Key features and benefits
With Funding Navigator, departments gain access to tools and expertise to maximize their funding opportunities:
- Curated database of thousands of federal, state, and private grant opportunities
- Customized recommendations based on departmental priorities and goals
- Step-by-step guidance from application writing to submission
- Expert feedback to refine and strengthen applications
- Automated progress tracking tools to keep applicants informed at every stage
Proven success
Already, public safety departments across the country have successfully secured funding using this solution. In Illinois, the Elgin Fire Department obtained a $50,000 grant from the Gary Sinise Foundation. Lieutenant Josh Smith credits Funding Navigator’s expert guidance with helping him submit a stronger application.
“Having people who are familiar with grants and have a writing background review your narratives and give you tips, edits, and suggestions is something I don’t often get to do,” said Smith, who has been writing grants for more than a decade. “I had my standard narratives, but having someone suggest ways to phrase things better made it cleaner, neater, and more effective.”
Tailored support for any department
Whether experienced or new to grant writing, Funding Navigator reduces the complexity, removes the guesswork, and strengthens applications — making funding more accessible for departments of all sizes and skill levels.
“I would absolutely advise other departments to try it and see if it works for them,” said Smith. “It’s a one-stop shop to organize, evaluate, and submit grant applications for your department.”
To explore funding opportunities or to schedule a complimentary consultation with a grant expert, visit fundingnav.org.
About Navigator and Funding Navigator
Founded with a deep commitment to community support, GovFunds dba Navigator specializes in helping local governments secure funding for essential projects. Its flagship product, Funding Navigator, is a grant search and application assistance platform developed with public safety agencies in mind. Funding Navigator simplifies the grant application process into short, achievable steps, saving time and resources by compiling relevant opportunities into a single, comprehensive database. With expert services that include guidance, feedback, and application support, Funding Navigator empowers departments to secure vital funding with confidence.
SOURCE GovFunds Inc
