Quick Overview
- 1#1: Fluxx - End-to-end cloud-based platform that automates the full grant lifecycle from application to reporting for foundations and grantmakers.
- 2#2: Submittable - Flexible application management software that streamlines grant submissions, reviews, and awards with customizable workflows.
- 3#3: Blackbaud Grantmaking - Comprehensive enterprise solution for managing grants, including applicant portals, evaluation tools, and compliance reporting.
- 4#4: SmartSimple - Customizable grants management system with workflow automation, AI insights, and integration capabilities for funders.
- 5#5: CommunityForce - Cloud-native grantmaking software that simplifies applications, peer reviews, and disbursements for nonprofits and corporations.
- 6#6: DonorLynk - Integrated grants and donor management platform with real-time dashboards and automated grant cycle management.
- 7#7: GrantHub - Grant opportunity tracking and management tool that connects funders with vetted nonprofits for efficient grantmaking.
- 8#8: eCivis - Full-cycle grants management software handling discovery, applications, awards, and compliance for government and nonprofits.
- 9#9: Instrumentl - AI-powered platform for grant discovery, tracking, and relationship management tailored for grantseekers and makers.
- 10#10: Cadmium OpenWater - Versatile software for managing grant applications, reviews, and reporting with strong customization for grant programs.
Our ranking prioritizes tools that excel in core functionality—including automation, compliance, and integration—alongside user experience and overall value, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of grantmakers, nonprofits, and government organizations.
Comparison Table
Choosing the right grantmaking software impacts efficiency, from proposal submission to fund distribution. This comparison table explores tools like Fluxx, Submittable, Blackbaud Grantmaking, SmartSimple, and CommunityForce, outlining key features and suitability to guide informed decisions.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fluxx End-to-end cloud-based platform that automates the full grant lifecycle from application to reporting for foundations and grantmakers. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Submittable Flexible application management software that streamlines grant submissions, reviews, and awards with customizable workflows. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Blackbaud Grantmaking Comprehensive enterprise solution for managing grants, including applicant portals, evaluation tools, and compliance reporting. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | SmartSimple Customizable grants management system with workflow automation, AI insights, and integration capabilities for funders. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | CommunityForce Cloud-native grantmaking software that simplifies applications, peer reviews, and disbursements for nonprofits and corporations. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | DonorLynk Integrated grants and donor management platform with real-time dashboards and automated grant cycle management. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.9/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 7 | GrantHub Grant opportunity tracking and management tool that connects funders with vetted nonprofits for efficient grantmaking. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | eCivis Full-cycle grants management software handling discovery, applications, awards, and compliance for government and nonprofits. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 9 | Instrumentl AI-powered platform for grant discovery, tracking, and relationship management tailored for grantseekers and makers. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 10 | Cadmium OpenWater Versatile software for managing grant applications, reviews, and reporting with strong customization for grant programs. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.0/10 |
End-to-end cloud-based platform that automates the full grant lifecycle from application to reporting for foundations and grantmakers.
Flexible application management software that streamlines grant submissions, reviews, and awards with customizable workflows.
Comprehensive enterprise solution for managing grants, including applicant portals, evaluation tools, and compliance reporting.
Customizable grants management system with workflow automation, AI insights, and integration capabilities for funders.
Cloud-native grantmaking software that simplifies applications, peer reviews, and disbursements for nonprofits and corporations.
Integrated grants and donor management platform with real-time dashboards and automated grant cycle management.
Grant opportunity tracking and management tool that connects funders with vetted nonprofits for efficient grantmaking.
Full-cycle grants management software handling discovery, applications, awards, and compliance for government and nonprofits.
AI-powered platform for grant discovery, tracking, and relationship management tailored for grantseekers and makers.
Versatile software for managing grant applications, reviews, and reporting with strong customization for grant programs.
Fluxx
enterpriseEnd-to-end cloud-based platform that automates the full grant lifecycle from application to reporting for foundations and grantmakers.
No-code workflow builder that allows infinite customization without developers to match any grantmaking process
Fluxx is a premier cloud-based grant management platform tailored for foundations, philanthropies, and corporate giving programs. It automates the full grantmaking lifecycle, including opportunity creation, application submission and review, decision-making workflows, payments, and ongoing monitoring with impact reporting. With its no-code customization and real-time dashboards, Fluxx empowers grantmakers to scale operations while maintaining compliance and data security.
Pros
- End-to-end automation of grant processes with customizable workflows
- Advanced real-time reporting, analytics, and dashboards
- Robust integrations with CRMs, financial systems, and grantee portals
Cons
- Steep learning curve and lengthy implementation for complex setups
- Premium pricing may be prohibitive for small nonprofits
- Limited native mobile functionality
Best For
Large foundations and enterprise-level grantmakers needing scalable, highly customizable solutions for complex grantmaking operations.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $50,000+ annually depending on user count, features, and organization size.
Submittable
enterpriseFlexible application management software that streamlines grant submissions, reviews, and awards with customizable workflows.
Configurable multi-stage review workflows with automated applicant routing and bias-reducing blind review capabilities
Submittable is a versatile grantmaking platform that simplifies the entire grants lifecycle, from customizable online application forms to collaborative review processes and fund disbursement. It supports organizations in receiving submissions, scoring applications with rubrics, facilitating team reviews, and generating insightful reports. Widely used by foundations and nonprofits, it scales for high-volume grant programs with features like automated workflows and integrations.
Pros
- Highly customizable forms and workflows tailored for grant applications
- Powerful collaborative review tools with scoring rubrics and blind review options
- Strong reporting, analytics, and integrations with CRMs and payment systems
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly with submission volume, challenging for small orgs
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customizations
- Limited native mobile app functionality for reviewers
Best For
Mid-to-large foundations and nonprofits managing high-volume, complex grant programs that require robust collaboration and reporting.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $10,000-$20,000 annually for base plans, scaling with submission volume and enterprise features.
Blackbaud Grantmaking
enterpriseComprehensive enterprise solution for managing grants, including applicant portals, evaluation tools, and compliance reporting.
Multi-stage collaborative review workflows with real-time commenting and decision routing
Blackbaud Grantmaking is a robust, cloud-based platform tailored for foundations, corporations, and nonprofits to manage the full grant lifecycle, from application intake and evaluation to disbursement, monitoring, and reporting. It offers customizable workflows, collaborative review tools, and advanced analytics to ensure compliance and maximize impact. Integrated with Blackbaud's broader ecosystem like Raiser's Edge NXT, it supports scalable operations for complex grantmaking needs.
Pros
- Comprehensive end-to-end grant management with customizable workflows
- Powerful reporting, analytics, and compliance tracking
- Strong integrations with CRM, financial systems, and Blackbaud tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for new users
- High cost with custom enterprise pricing
- Limited native mobile app functionality
Best For
Large foundations and corporate philanthropy programs managing high-volume, complex grant portfolios.
Pricing
Custom quote based on grant volume and modules; typically $15,000–$100,000+ annually for mid-to-large organizations.
SmartSimple
enterpriseCustomizable grants management system with workflow automation, AI insights, and integration capabilities for funders.
No-code configuration engine enabling fully bespoke workflows without developer involvement
SmartSimple is a cloud-based platform specializing in grant management, CRM, and workflow automation for foundations, nonprofits, and grantmakers. It streamlines the entire grant lifecycle, from customizable application portals and review processes to disbursements, compliance tracking, and impact reporting. The software supports diverse funding programs like grants, scholarships, loans, and impact investments with robust integration capabilities.
Pros
- Highly customizable no-code workflows for complex grant processes
- Powerful reporting and analytics with real-time dashboards
- Excellent applicant portal for streamlined submissions and communication
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
- Dated user interface in some areas
- Custom pricing lacks transparency and can be expensive for smaller organizations
Best For
Mid-to-large foundations and nonprofits needing highly tailored grant management solutions for complex, multi-stage funding programs.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $5,000–$15,000/month based on users, modules, and customization.
CommunityForce
specializedCloud-native grantmaking software that simplifies applications, peer reviews, and disbursements for nonprofits and corporations.
Configurable multi-level review and approval workflows that adapt to unique organizational hierarchies and grant types
CommunityForce is a robust grantmaking software platform tailored for foundations, nonprofits, and corporations to manage the full grant lifecycle from application to reporting. It provides customizable online portals for applicants, multi-stage review processes, automated workflows, and compliance tracking. The tool excels in handling complex grant programs with features like payment disbursement, performance monitoring, and detailed analytics dashboards.
Pros
- Highly customizable workflows for complex grant cycles
- Strong reporting and analytics for impact measurement
- Excellent support for compliance and audit trails
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced configurations
- Pricing can be high for smaller organizations
- User interface feels dated compared to modern competitors
Best For
Mid-sized foundations and nonprofits managing diverse, high-volume grant programs with intricate review processes.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $15,000-$30,000 annually depending on users, grants volume, and features.
DonorLynk
enterpriseIntegrated grants and donor management platform with real-time dashboards and automated grant cycle management.
Integrated Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) management within the grantmaking workflow
DonorLynk is a user-friendly grantmaking platform tailored for foundations and nonprofits, enabling streamlined online grant applications, review workflows, and fund disbursement. It features customizable forms, grantee portals for reporting and communication, and integrated payment processing to simplify the entire grant lifecycle. The software also supports donor-advised funds (DAFs), making it versatile for organizations managing both grants and donor relationships.
Pros
- Highly intuitive interface with quick setup and minimal training required
- Seamless payment processing with low transaction fees
- Customizable grantee and applicant portals for better engagement
Cons
- Reporting and analytics lack depth compared to enterprise solutions
- Limited integrations with advanced CRM or accounting tools
- Scalability issues for very large grant portfolios
Best For
Small to mid-sized foundations and nonprofits needing an affordable, easy-to-implement grantmaking tool without enterprise complexity.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $99/month plus transaction fees (around 2-3%); custom enterprise plans available based on volume.
GrantHub
specializedGrant opportunity tracking and management tool that connects funders with vetted nonprofits for efficient grantmaking.
Real-time collaborative review hub with inline commenting and scoring for faster, team-based decisions
GrantHub, from Fluxx, is a cloud-based grantmaking platform designed to streamline the full grant lifecycle for foundations and nonprofits. It enables custom online applications, collaborative review workflows with scoring and feedback tools, and automated reporting for impact tracking. The software emphasizes user-friendly interfaces and integrations to reduce administrative burdens while enhancing decision-making.
Pros
- Intuitive collaboration tools for team reviews and feedback
- Robust reporting and analytics for grant impact measurement
- Customizable workflows that adapt to specific grantmaking needs
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for smaller organizations
- Limited out-of-the-box integrations with some CRM systems
- Advanced customization requires technical support
Best For
Mid-sized foundations and grantmakers seeking collaborative, scalable tools without extensive IT resources.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically starts at $10,000-$20,000 annually for basic plans, scaling with users and features.
eCivis
enterpriseFull-cycle grants management software handling discovery, applications, awards, and compliance for government and nonprofits.
Proprietary Grants Intelligence database aggregating over 1 million funding opportunities from federal, state, and private sources
eCivis is a comprehensive cloud-based grants management platform primarily designed for governments, nonprofits, and public sector organizations to discover funding opportunities, track applications, manage awards, and ensure compliance. It features a proprietary database of over a million grant opportunities and provides end-to-end tools for the grants lifecycle, including workflow automation, subrecipient management, and reporting. While strong in opportunity sourcing and public sector compliance, it caters more to grant recipients than pure grantmakers.
Pros
- Extensive proprietary database with millions of grant opportunities for efficient discovery
- Robust compliance monitoring, reporting, and subgrantee management tools tailored for public sector
- Strong workflow automation for application tracking and award management
Cons
- Steep learning curve and interface that feels dated compared to modern SaaS tools
- Pricing is opaque and custom, often expensive for smaller organizations
- Less emphasis on grantmaker-specific features like donor management or advanced disbursement
Best For
Mid-to-large governments and nonprofits focused on public sector grants management and compliance.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $10,000+ annually based on users and modules; no public tiers.
Instrumentl
specializedAI-powered platform for grant discovery, tracking, and relationship management tailored for grantseekers and makers.
AI-driven Smart Match technology that personalizes grant recommendations based on organization profile and past applications
Instrumentl is a grant discovery and management platform primarily designed for nonprofits and grantseekers to identify funding opportunities from a database of over 400,000 grants. It offers AI-powered matching, deadline tracking, application organization, and collaboration tools to streamline the grant pursuit process. While not a full end-to-end grantmaking solution for funders, it provides valuable prospecting insights and reporting for organizations involved in grant distribution.
Pros
- Extensive database of grant opportunities with smart matching algorithms
- Real-time alerts and deadline tracking to prevent misses
- User-friendly interface with collaboration and reporting tools
Cons
- Primarily geared toward grantseekers rather than comprehensive grantmaker workflows like application review or disbursement
- Higher pricing tiers required for advanced features and unlimited searches
- Limited integrations compared to dedicated grantmaking platforms
Best For
Small to mid-sized foundations or nonprofits that need efficient grant prospecting and tracking but not full-cycle grant administration.
Pricing
Starts at $159/month (Standard plan) up to $499/month (Enterprise), with annual discounts; free trial available.
Cadmium OpenWater
enterpriseVersatile software for managing grant applications, reviews, and reporting with strong customization for grant programs.
AI-powered reviewer matching and conflict-of-interest detection for fair, efficient evaluations
Cadmium OpenWater is a cloud-based platform specialized in managing applications, reviews, and awards, making it suitable for grantmaking workflows. It enables organizations to build custom forms, collect submissions, assign reviewers, score applications with rubrics, and track decisions through multi-stage processes. The software also supports reporting, integrations with payment gateways, and post-award management for efficient grant cycles.
Pros
- Highly customizable forms and workflows for complex grant applications
- Robust reviewer assignment, blind review, and scoring tools
- Strong reporting and analytics for decision-making
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced configurations
- Pricing lacks transparency and can escalate with volume
- Limited native support for long-term grantee relationship management
Best For
Mid-sized foundations and nonprofits handling periodic, competitive grant programs with heavy review needs.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $1,500–$5,000 per grant cycle or $500+/month subscription depending on applications and users.
Conclusion
The top 10 grantmaking tools offer a range of strengths, with Fluxx leading as the best choice due to its end-to-end cloud-based automation that streamlines the full grant lifecycle from application to reporting. Submittable follows closely with its flexible, customizable workflows, making it ideal for teams seeking tailored submission and review processes, while Blackbaud Grantmaking stands out as a comprehensive enterprise solution for those needing robust compliance and evaluation tools. Together, these platforms highlight the evolution of efficient grant management, catering to varied organizational needs.
Ready to transform your grantmaking? Start with Fluxx, the top-ranked tool, and experience seamless, automated workflows that simplify every step of your process—whether you're managing applications, reviews, or reporting. Don't wait to elevate your efficiency.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison