Candid (formerly GuideStar + Foundation Center)

Nonprofit information service providing free nonprofit profiles, paid grant databases, and nonprofit transparency tools including Form 990 access.

Candid is the result of a merger between GuideStar and the Foundation Center, creating the largest nonprofit information service in the U.S. Services include free nonprofit profiles (including Seal of Transparency levels), the Foundation Directory Online (paid) for grant prospecting, Form 990 databases, and extensive research on philanthropy trends. Many foundations review a nonprofit's Candid profile before funding decisions. Small watershed nonprofits should maintain a Candid profile and pursue at least the Bronze transparency seal by uploading mission, audit, and 990 data. The Foundation Directory Online provides deep grant research but costs several hundred dollars annually; library access may be available at local nonprofit centers. Candid also publishes free research on nonprofit finances and sector trends.