Why?
As of Oct. 1, 2003, your department MUST obtain a DUNS number in order to apply and receive a Federal grant.
How does the government use my DUNS number?
The DUNS number is a unique nine-character identification number provided by the commercial company Dun & Bradstreet. The Federal government uses the DUNS number to better identify related organizations that are receiving funding under grants and cooperative agreements, and to provide consistent name and address data for electronic grant applications.
How can I tell if we already have a DUNS number?
Your first step would be to ask your accounting or finance department as they may have already established a number for your jurisdiction and you just don't know it. You can also run a basic name search on the Dun and Bradstreet web site (just be careful because abbreviations might not show up, i.e., you search for Department but it's in the system as Dept., etc.).
If your department doesn't have a DUNS number, go ahead and get one now even if you're not sure you'll be appplying for a federal grant. If you wait until the grant application period begins you may get caught short because it can take 2 weeks or more to obtain the number.
How to get a DUNS Number
- Apply by Phone: (800) 333-0505
- Apply Online: Dun & Bradstreet website
