Grant research · head to head
Candid Foundation Directory vs Instrumentl
Candid Foundation Directory and Instrumentl both sit in Grant research. Candid Foundation Directory: From ~$449/yr; free at partner libraries. Instrumentl: From $299/mo billed annually ($3,588/yr). The table below lines up pricing model and fit, each in the product's own terms, so you can see which one matches your shop.
Some links on this page are affiliate links. Disclosure
| Candid Foundation Directory | Instrumentl | |
|---|---|---|
| Entry price | From ~$449/yr; free at partner libraries | From $299/mo billed annually ($3,588/yr) |
| Pricing model | Tiered subscription; free on-site access via Candid partner libraries | Tiered by user seats; 14-day free trial |
| Best for | Deep due diligence on specific foundations and their 990 giving history | Shops managing 10+ grant applications that want matching and deadline tracking in one place |
| Last verified | Jul 2026 | Aug 2026 |
Candid Foundation Directory
Strengths: The most authoritative foundation and 990 data set available; Grant-history detail shows who a funder actually gives to; Free at hundreds of partner libraries.
Not the fit?
- Managing ten or more live applications? Instrumentl →
- Managing deadlines across a team? Instrumentl →
Instrumentl
Strengths: Active matching surfaces funders you would not find by keyword search; Deadline and reporting tracker replaces the spreadsheet most teams limp along on; 990 and giving-history data sit next to each funder.
Not the fit?
- Applying for a handful of grants a year? GrantStation →
- Need one funder researched properly? Candid Foundation Directory →