Quick Overview
- 1#1: Fluxx - Cloud-based grantmaking platform that streamlines the entire grants lifecycle from application to reporting for foundations.
- 2#2: Foundant - Comprehensive grant lifecycle management software designed for foundations to handle applications, awards, and monitoring.
- 3#3: Blackbaud Grantmaking - Enterprise-grade solution for foundation grant management, including workflow automation and impact reporting.
- 4#4: Submittable - Flexible platform for managing grant applications, reviews, and payments with customizable workflows.
- 5#5: SmartSimple - All-in-one grants management and CRM system that supports foundation operations from solicitation to closeout.
- 6#6: Instrumentl - Grant management tool that helps foundations discover, track, and manage grants efficiently.
- 7#7: Salesforce Nonprofit Cloud - Customizable CRM platform tailored for foundations to manage grants, donors, and programs.
- 8#8: CommunityForce - End-to-end grants management software with SEAMLESS platform for streamlined foundation grantmaking.
- 9#9: Kindsight - AI-powered grants management platform that automates reporting and insights for foundations.
- 10#10: eCivis - Grants management solution for foundations focusing on compliance, tracking, and administration.
These tools were selected based on performance, user experience, feature set (including automation and reporting), and value, ensuring they address the unique needs of foundation operations.
Comparison Table
Foundation management software streamlines grant workflows, and this comparison table explores top tools like Fluxx, Foundant, Blackbaud Grantmaking, Submittable, and SmartSimple, highlighting key features and usability. Readers will discover which tool aligns best with their organization's size, goals, and operational needs, from application processing to reporting.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fluxx Cloud-based grantmaking platform that streamlines the entire grants lifecycle from application to reporting for foundations. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Foundant Comprehensive grant lifecycle management software designed for foundations to handle applications, awards, and monitoring. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Blackbaud Grantmaking Enterprise-grade solution for foundation grant management, including workflow automation and impact reporting. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | Submittable Flexible platform for managing grant applications, reviews, and payments with customizable workflows. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | SmartSimple All-in-one grants management and CRM system that supports foundation operations from solicitation to closeout. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | Instrumentl Grant management tool that helps foundations discover, track, and manage grants efficiently. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Salesforce Nonprofit Cloud Customizable CRM platform tailored for foundations to manage grants, donors, and programs. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | CommunityForce End-to-end grants management software with SEAMLESS platform for streamlined foundation grantmaking. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 9 | Kindsight AI-powered grants management platform that automates reporting and insights for foundations. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | eCivis Grants management solution for foundations focusing on compliance, tracking, and administration. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.2/10 |
Cloud-based grantmaking platform that streamlines the entire grants lifecycle from application to reporting for foundations.
Comprehensive grant lifecycle management software designed for foundations to handle applications, awards, and monitoring.
Enterprise-grade solution for foundation grant management, including workflow automation and impact reporting.
Flexible platform for managing grant applications, reviews, and payments with customizable workflows.
All-in-one grants management and CRM system that supports foundation operations from solicitation to closeout.
Grant management tool that helps foundations discover, track, and manage grants efficiently.
Customizable CRM platform tailored for foundations to manage grants, donors, and programs.
End-to-end grants management software with SEAMLESS platform for streamlined foundation grantmaking.
AI-powered grants management platform that automates reporting and insights for foundations.
Grants management solution for foundations focusing on compliance, tracking, and administration.
Fluxx
specializedCloud-based grantmaking platform that streamlines the entire grants lifecycle from application to reporting for foundations.
Relational data model with no-code workflow builder for unlimited customization without IT dependency
Fluxx is a comprehensive cloud-based grant management platform designed specifically for foundations and philanthropies, streamlining the entire grant lifecycle from application intake to disbursement and impact reporting. It offers customizable workflows, relational data management, and advanced analytics to enhance decision-making and efficiency. With seamless integrations and a user-friendly interface, Fluxx empowers organizations to scale their grantmaking operations effectively.
Pros
- Highly customizable no-code workflows tailored to complex foundation processes
- Powerful reporting and analytics with relational data insights
- Seamless integrations with CRM, accounting, and other nonprofit tools
Cons
- High initial implementation costs and time for full customization
- Pricing may be prohibitive for very small foundations
- Advanced features require training for optimal use
Best For
Mid-to-large foundations and philanthropies needing a scalable, all-in-one solution for high-volume grantmaking.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $25,000+ annually depending on modules, users, and customization needs.
Foundant
specializedComprehensive grant lifecycle management software designed for foundations to handle applications, awards, and monitoring.
Dynamic Forms builder with conditional logic for tailored applicant experiences
Foundant is a robust foundation management software specializing in grant lifecycle management (GLM), enabling foundations to handle everything from grant applications and reviews to payments and reporting in one platform. It features customizable forms, collaborative workflows, and grantee portals that promote transparency and efficiency. Ideal for streamlining philanthropic operations, Foundant integrates applicant experiences with internal tools for a seamless process.
Pros
- Comprehensive end-to-end grant management tools
- Highly customizable workflows and forms
- Strong reporting, analytics, and compliance features
Cons
- Initial setup and learning curve can be steep
- Pricing may be high for very small foundations
- Limited native integrations with some accounting software
Best For
Mid-sized to large foundations seeking a fully integrated grantmaking solution with advanced customization.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $10,000-$25,000 annually depending on user count and features.
Blackbaud Grantmaking
enterpriseEnterprise-grade solution for foundation grant management, including workflow automation and impact reporting.
Configurable, no-code workflows that adapt precisely to complex, organization-specific approval processes
Blackbaud Grantmaking is a comprehensive cloud-based platform tailored for foundations and grantmakers, managing the full grant lifecycle from application intake and review to payments and impact measurement. It offers customizable workflows, robust reporting, and analytics to streamline operations and ensure compliance. Integrated with Blackbaud's broader ecosystem, it supports data-driven decision-making for philanthropic organizations.
Pros
- End-to-end grant lifecycle management with customizable workflows
- Powerful analytics, dashboards, and compliance reporting
- Strong integrations with CRM and financial systems
Cons
- High cost with custom enterprise pricing
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Limited out-of-box mobile accessibility
Best For
Mid-to-large foundations and corporate grantmaking programs requiring scalable, enterprise-level management with advanced reporting.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing; typically $40,000–$150,000+ annually based on users, grants volume, and features.
Submittable
specializedFlexible platform for managing grant applications, reviews, and payments with customizable workflows.
Advanced workflow automation with conditional logic and multi-stage reviewer assignments
Submittable is a robust online platform specialized in managing submissions for grants, awards, and funding programs, making it a strong fit for foundation management. It enables organizations to create customizable application forms, automate review workflows, and facilitate collaboration among reviewers. Foundations use it to streamline grant cycles from application intake to disbursement and reporting, handling high volumes efficiently.
Pros
- Highly customizable forms and workflows for complex grant processes
- Powerful collaboration and blind review tools for fair evaluations
- Detailed analytics and reporting for grant outcomes and impact
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small foundations with low submission volumes
- Advanced customization requires technical setup or support
- Limited native integration for full financial tracking and donor management
Best For
Mid-to-large foundations managing high-volume grant programs that prioritize streamlined application review and automation.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starts around $10,000 annually, scaled by submission volume, users, and features; free trial available.
SmartSimple
enterpriseAll-in-one grants management and CRM system that supports foundation operations from solicitation to closeout.
No-code I-Forms builder for dynamic, logic-driven application and workflow customization
SmartSimple is a comprehensive cloud-based platform tailored for foundations and grantmaking organizations, managing the full grant lifecycle from application intake to disbursement and reporting. It features customizable workflows, secure applicant portals, multi-stage review processes, and robust analytics for impact measurement. The software excels in handling complex philanthropy programs for corporations, family foundations, and public grantmakers.
Pros
- Highly customizable no-code workflows and forms
- Powerful reporting and compliance tools
- Scalable for enterprise-level grant volumes
Cons
- Steep learning curve for setup and customization
- Interface feels dated compared to modern SaaS tools
- Pricing lacks transparency and can be costly
Best For
Mid-to-large foundations or corporate philanthropy programs needing deep customization for intricate grant processes.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $15,000-$50,000 annually depending on users, grants volume, and features.
Instrumentl
specializedGrant management tool that helps foundations discover, track, and manage grants efficiently.
Proprietary database of 400,000+ U.S. funders and 2M+ nonprofits for superior grantee discovery
Instrumentl is a grant management platform tailored for foundations, enabling efficient grantmaking through RFP posting, application intake, collaborative review workflows, and grantee monitoring. It leverages an extensive database of over 400,000 funders and 2 million nonprofits to support grantee discovery and due diligence. The software also facilitates compliance tracking, payment processing, and reporting to streamline the entire grant lifecycle.
Pros
- Vast, verified database for grantee prospecting
- Automated workflows and collaboration tools
- Integrated compliance and reporting features
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small foundations
- Initial setup and learning curve
- Limited advanced customization options
Best For
Mid-sized foundations seeking scalable tools for high-volume grantmaking and grantee management.
Pricing
Custom pricing starts at around $500/month for basic plans, scaling to enterprise levels based on grant volume and users.
Salesforce Nonprofit Cloud
enterpriseCustomizable CRM platform tailored for foundations to manage grants, donors, and programs.
Integrated Grants Management app with end-to-end lifecycle automation and AI-powered recommendation engine
Salesforce Nonprofit Cloud is a robust CRM platform tailored for nonprofits, including foundations, enabling grant management, donor relationship tracking, program oversight, and compliance reporting. Built on the Salesforce ecosystem, it offers extensive customization to handle complex philanthropic operations like grant lifecycle automation and impact measurement. It integrates seamlessly with third-party tools for streamlined foundation workflows.
Pros
- Highly customizable with low-code tools for tailored grantmaking workflows
- Advanced analytics and AI-driven insights via Einstein for Philanthropy
- Scalable for enterprise-level foundations with strong security and integrations
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring training and admins
- High costs for implementation, customization, and ongoing support
- Overkill for small foundations due to complexity
Best For
Mid-to-large foundations with dedicated IT resources needing scalable, customizable grant and donor management.
Pricing
Nonprofit Cloud Starter free for up to 10 users; Enterprise from $36/user/month + implementation fees (custom quotes typical).
CommunityForce
specializedEnd-to-end grants management software with SEAMLESS platform for streamlined foundation grantmaking.
SmartMatch technology for AI-driven grant opportunity matching and recommendation
CommunityForce is a cloud-based foundation management software tailored for corporate philanthropy, grantmaking foundations, and nonprofits, providing end-to-end tools for managing grants, donations, and volunteer programs. It streamlines the grant lifecycle from online applications and peer reviews to awards, payments, and impact reporting with customizable workflows and analytics. The platform also supports CSR/ESG tracking and community engagement portals to enhance transparency and efficiency.
Pros
- Comprehensive grant lifecycle automation including applications, reviews, and payments
- Robust reporting and analytics for impact measurement and compliance
- Customizable portals for grantees, volunteers, and donors
Cons
- Pricing is opaque and enterprise-level, requiring custom quotes
- Steeper learning curve for complex workflows
- Limited public details on integrations with accounting or CRM systems
Best For
Mid-to-large corporate foundations or philanthropy programs needing integrated grant and volunteer management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on organization size and modules; typically starts at $10,000+ annually, contact sales for demo and quote.
Kindsight
specializedAI-powered grants management platform that automates reporting and insights for foundations.
AI-powered knowledge capture from natural language sources like emails and calls, turning unstructured data into instantly searchable insights
Kindsight (kindsight.io) is an AI-powered knowledge management platform tailored for foundations, enabling the capture, organization, and retrieval of insights from grantmaking, research, and strategy documents. It transforms scattered notes, emails, and meeting transcripts into a searchable, semantic knowledge base to accelerate decision-making and reduce knowledge silos. While not a full-suite foundation management system, it excels as a complementary tool for enhancing institutional memory and generating actionable grant insights.
Pros
- Powerful AI-driven semantic search across all captured knowledge
- Seamless integration with email, docs, and grant systems for effortless capture
- Customizable dashboards for strategy insights and trend analysis
Cons
- Lacks comprehensive grant workflow, payments, or compliance tools
- Enterprise pricing can be prohibitive for smaller foundations
- Integrations with core FMS platforms are still expanding
Best For
Mid-to-large foundations seeking to supercharge knowledge sharing and AI insights without replacing their existing grant management systems.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on foundation size and usage; typically starts at $5,000/month with annual contracts—contact sales for quotes.
eCivis
specializedGrants management solution for foundations focusing on compliance, tracking, and administration.
Proprietary federal funding intelligence engine for real-time grant opportunity matching
eCivis is a cloud-based grants management platform tailored for governments, nonprofits, and foundations, covering the full grant lifecycle from opportunity discovery to compliance and reporting. It provides tools for searching federal funding opportunities, managing applications and awards, tracking subawards, and ensuring regulatory compliance. The software integrates with ERP and accounting systems, making it suitable for foundation grantmaking and recipient management workflows.
Pros
- Extensive federal grants database for opportunity discovery
- Comprehensive compliance and reporting automation
- Strong integrations with financial and ERP systems
Cons
- Dated user interface with steep learning curve
- Customization often requires additional professional services
- Pricing lacks transparency and can be high for small foundations
Best For
Mid-to-large foundations focused on federal grantmaking and compliance-heavy portfolios.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; annual subscriptions typically start at $10,000+ based on users, modules, and organization size.
Conclusion
Fluxx leads as the top choice, excelling in streamlining the grants lifecycle from application to reporting for end-to-end efficiency. Foundant and Blackbaud Grantmaking stand out as strong alternatives, with Foundant offering comprehensive management and Blackbaud providing enterprise-grade workflow automation and impact reporting, each catering to distinct operational needs. These tools showcase the best in foundation management software, designed to elevate grantmaking efforts.
Don't miss the opportunity to enhance your foundation's operations—explore Fluxx today and discover the streamlined grants lifecycle it delivers.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison