AED Grant Guide: Finding Funding For Your AED Program

It’s no question that having an automated external defibrillator (AED) in your school, office, community center, or nonprofit organization could save a life. Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) causes more deaths per year than breast cancer, vehicular accidents, and diabetes combined. And, did you know that for each minute defibrillation is delayed, the chance of survival drops by 10%? In fact, defibrillation is so effective that the National Safety Council estimates that wider access to AEDs could save up to 40,000 lives per year!

Unfortunately, however, the cost of these life-saving devices can be prohibitive for many organizations. At Cardio Partners and AED.com, we make it our mission to ensure that organizations that would benefit from an AED have the resources they need to find funding and implement their AED program.

In this guide, we’ll discuss the different types of grants or potential funding sources for your AED, how to effectively write a grant proposal, and share a few reputable resources to get you started!

What is a Grant?

A grant is a financial gift that is bestowed upon a nonprofit organization. Grants do not have to be repaid; however, in many instances, certain conditions must be met to ensure that the funding is being used appropriately. Typically, grant recipients have been issued 501(c)(3) status by the government. Government agencies, community organizations, and public schools are also often eligible for grants.

Where do Grants Come From?

Grants may come from a number of different sources. Federal and state governments, corporations, private trusts, private foundations, and community foundations are all common sources for grants.

What Kind of Grants are there?

Just as there are a number of different sources for grants, there are a number of different types of grants. For AED funding, common types of grants include:

• Project-based grants: Grants that are to be used for a particular project or program.

• Matching grants: Grants in which the applicant (grantee) pledges to raise a set amount of funds that will be matched by the donor.

• Employee match: Companies with employee matching grant programs encourage employees to donate to a cause of their choice and the employer pledges to match their contribution.

• In-Kind Donation: In this instance, an organization would receive an AED in lieu of a financial gift.

• Grant Application Steps

• Applying for a grant can be time-consuming and may involve a lot of information. To set yourself up for success you’ll want to carefully define your goals. As you do this, think about why your organization needs an AED and how it would benefit your members. Then, begin your search for potential grant sources. (Read on for our resource suggestions!)

• Once you have a list of potential funders, narrow your options and make contact. If possible, meet with the funder prior to submitting your application so you have a better idea of what makes for a successful application.

• As you put your proposal together, put yourself in the funder’s position and make a compelling case. Think about what they’re looking for in an organization and emphasize those aspects of your work. You may also want to consider how you can help the funder. As you prepare your statement, explain why your proposed AED program is so important and why your organization is a good fit for an AED program in your community. Be positive and emphasize the impact their donation could have.

• Carefully follow all grant application steps. You’ll need to answer each question on the application clearly and with great care. Be prepared to provide organizational data, bios of your key employees, financial statements, and data about the communities you serve. Deadlines matter! If you submit an application after the deadline, your organization will very likely miss out on funding!

• If you’re selected to receive a grant, make sure you understand the reporting requirements and any specific grant acknowledgment procedures the funder may expect. While we’re on the subject of follow-up, don’t forget to express your gratitude to the funder!

• Because many different organizations may be competing for the same grant, your application may not be selected. If possible and if appropriate, follow up with the funderto discover what you could improve on and put their insights to good use on your next application!

• A Word of Warning: AED Grant Scams

• As you search for potential AED grants, be aware that some websites may offer what they refer to as a “grant” or “partial discount.” In some instances, these “offers” may be less-than-reputable attempts at offering minimal discounts or outright scams. If you see an offer for a price-reduction “grant” or “discounted” price, be sure to check on the actual retail price of the AED.

• Manufacturer pricing can be found on Cardio Partners and the AED.com websites for accurate comparisons. We’re also happy to work with deserving organizations to make sure they receive the best possible equipment pricing.

• AED Grant Resources and Sources

• In many instances, grant research can be conducted online. You may want to visit your local library branch to see if they have a development professional who can assist you or subscriptions to databases like the Foundation Directory Online. You may also want to approach your local civic organizations such as the American Legion, Elks Club, Kiwanis Club, Lions, or Rotary Club may be willing to fund your program.

• GotAED, an initiative of Simon’s Heart, is a crowdfunding site dedicated to placing AEDs in areas where children learn and play. The site invites schools and youth organizations to begin a campaign to fund the purchase of an AED and offers tips and suggestions to help ensure a successful crowdsourcing campaign. Community members, friends, and generous benefactors make it possible for these life-saving devices to be placed where they’re most need.

• Although funders and funding opportunities change frequently, here are a few additional resources to get you started.

• The Foundation Center

• Defibtech Grant Assistance Program

• Zoll Grant Assistance

• Nothing makes us happier than donating an AED to a deserving organization. We make every attempt to honor donation requests; unfortunately, however, we receive far more requests that we can reasonably accommodate. For more information about our donation program, please contact us, we’d love to hear from you. Call Cardio Partners at 800-544-0004 or send an email to customerservice@cardiopartners.com.